Last night we hosted an ecumenical Blue Christmas Service together with Holy Redeemer and Pilgrim Congregational Church, and was truly wonderful. We sang carols, lit the Advent Wreath, and people from each of the churches read Scripture. Musicians from Pilgrim sang O, Holy Night during the offering which raised $168 for a Domestic Violence shetler in Amesbury. We shared prayers and then Father George introduced a time of reflection and prayer when everyone was invited forward to light a candle as a symbol of Christ’s light shining in whatever darkness we are experiencing in our lives. The clergy then anointed people with oil as a sign of healing. Pastor Gwyneth and Father George anointed one another at the end which was a powerful picture of unity. After worship everyone gathered to share some of the cookies made by our Sunday School kids. Merrimac TV taped the whole service which can be viewed on Merrimac Channel 18 and will be posted on our website shortly. Thank you to everyone who supported this service with music, words, prayers, gifts and presence.