Unlike Alaska, there’s rarely snow on the ground in Alabama for Christmas. It still feels like Christmas though. One of my favorite festivities in Huntsville this time of year is the Midnight Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.
A stirring rendition of "Silent Night" began the ceremony and was followed by joyous hymns, a terrific sermon from my favorite pastor, Pastor Dennis Fakes, and then a quiet and peaceful communion was the cherry on top.
But by far my favorite moment of the evening was the lighting
of the candles. At the beginning of the service, each visitor was given a
small handheld candle when entering the church, and at the end of the service,
as “Silent Night, Holy Night!” played, the lights were dimmed, all candles lit,
and a remarkable peace transformed the church.
The congregation left the Sanctuary in silence and darkness, departing
to the Christmas Day to celebrate the Christ child.
Thanks, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, for an outstanding celebration of our Lord and Savior's birth!
St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Huntsville, Alabama.
Festive decor in one of the most gorgeous churches in Huntsville.
Mom and I at the Midnight Candlelight Service.