The Second Congregational Church, UCC in Newcastle is inviting one and all to come and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, preservice music will begin at 4:40 p.m. Bells will ring, instruments will play!

The church’s renowned four-octave handbell choir with chimes will ring traditional carols including “The Sussex Carol,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” the French carol, “Il est né le divin Enfant,” and Molly Greenleaf will sing “Once in Royal David’s City” to introduce the bell arrangement of that beloved hymn. Also, an organ duet, ”Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella” will be performed by Peter Asche and Jane Wilmot on the church’s large 19th century pipe organ.

The Family Candlelight Service will include favorite carols for the congregation to sing and the Chancel Choir will sing two anthems by John Rutter, “The Jesus Gift” and “The Cradle Song.” Timpani, organ and bells will add to the singing of “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Joy to the World.”

The service will be one of Lessons and Carols telling the Christmas story. It will include a special message for children and a brief reflection by Rev. Allison Smith, Interim Pastor. The Christmas Eve offering will go to support the Ecumenical Food Pantry and Energy Fund as a sign of love in our community. The service will close with lighting candles and singing “Silent Night.”

On Christmas Day, Sunday morning at 10 a.m. come in your Christmas pajamas or your favorite Christmas sweater! Come as you are to share in an informal service of carols and communion as we celebrate the joy of Christmas!

The Second Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, is Open and Affirming, and located at 51 Main Street in Newcastle, as well as online at www.newcastleucc.org as well as on Facebook at Second Congregational Church of Newcastle.