Christmas Programs Add Meaning to Advent
On December 11th and 12th, under the direction of Matt Smith, the West End Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir presented the Cantata, "Noel: Born is the King." In two of the ten memorized anthems, the adult choir was assisted by children and youth vocalists who contributed duet and solo pieces supported by the choir. Other children and youth participated in dramatic elements including an angelic announcement and the nativity scene complete with shepherds and wise men. Narrated by SanDee Moore and April Gunn, the program reminded everyone that Christ came for all people.
While the first Noel was announced to shepherds near Bethlehem over two thousand years ago, the first Noel comes for any believer on the first Christmas following their decision to trust Jesus as Lord and Savior. We pray that this Christmas season will bring joyful Noel blessings to everyone in our community.
The West End Children truly blessed the Sunday morning worshippers on December 18th. Their presentation of "The Christmas Puzzle" demonstrated that snow days don't have to give you cabin fever. Grandma (Kayleigh Moore) reminded the children that remembering the true story of Christmas could bring joy to any day, snowy or otherwise. As the grandchildren (Seth Moore, Madison Lewis, Joshua Gunn, Olivia Allen, Peyton Leighty) solved the clues and fitted the puzzle pieces together, each piece was highlighted with delightful music provided by the children. Soloist included, Madison, Joshua, Olivia and Seth. King Herod was played by Brenton Hilton. Mary and Joseph were played by Sydney and Charlie Gunn. Baylor Milan and Sadie Burnett were angels and Caden Milan was a wiseman.
West End Baptist Ringers added to the worship experience with a beautiful call to worship and joyful anthem. Jesus' mother, Mary (April Gunn) lit the Advent peace candle and introduced the day's theme. Reverend John Tadlock helped worshippers reflect on the costly act of obedience rendered by Mary in his sermon, "Watching for Mary." Tthe next opportunity for Christmas worship will come on Christmas Eve at 6:00 PM. Don't miss this special candle-light service. (Photos by Brandi Burnett)
