Christmas happenings at Bay Methodist

Bay United Methodist will be celebrating Christmas by offering many opportunities for the community to enjoy this very special and sacred season.

On Sunday, Dec. 10, during the 10 a.m. worship service, the Bay United Methodist Chancel Choir will perform their annual Christmas Cantata. The performance, "Gloria," is Antonio Vivaldi's most famous work, and centers on the traditional, original arrangement from the Latin Mass. The upbeat melodies make this piece incredibly memorable and appealing to audiences.

Believed to have been written around 1725, this rendition was first performed in modern times in Siena, Italy, in September of 1939 and has become one of the most popular Baroque works for orchestra and chorus. Ron Muth directs the choir's mixed choral ensemble in four-part harmony, which will be accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra.

A “Longest Night” worship service takes place on Thursday, Dec. 21, the evening of the winter solstice, in the Bay United Methodist church sanctuary. It is an ecumenical service offered by the Faith Leaders of Bay.

Sometimes referred to as "Blue Christmas," this reflective service of carols and scriptures offers healing and hope for those going through dark times during the holidays. All are welcome in this sacred time and space if you are grieving, struggling with relationships, or addressing health or employment issues.

On Sunday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, join us at Bay United Methodist for our 10 a.m. Sunday service and again at 8 p.m. for the traditional candlelight Christmas Eve service, which includes a children’s Christmas pageant. All are welcome to these special Christmas worship services.

For more information, visit www.bayumc.org.