The end of the year is marked by many holiday traditions and celebrations at the First Church of Woodstock, including an outdoor carol sing, traditional Christmas Eve service of lessons and carols, a “giving tree” in support of TEEG, our Christmas Pageant, and more.
All are welcome wherever you find yourself on your life or spiritual journey, whether you are feeling joyful or not.
Below is this year’s list of activities
Gifts of Being Present Dec 5 - Jan 7, 10 am
Advent can be filled with worry about finding the perfect Christmas gifts. Deep down we want people in our lives to know they are special and that we love them. But sometimes we overlook the greatest gift of all… our very presence.
Throughout this busy season, we will pause… and become more present… to Hope, Peace, Love, Joy, Light, Promise, and Wonder. These gifts give us the strength to be more present to ourselves and others.
Sundays 10am
Gift Sunday, Dec 8, 10am
Form mid-November through early December, congregants gather toys, clothing, and food to make the holidays a little brighter for our neighbors. Gifts are gathered and brought to the sanctuary where we will bless the gifts before bringing them to our longtime ministry partner TEEG.
Community Carol Sing, Dec 10, 6pm
A small town New England holiday tradition, we gather in front of the church for cookies, cider, and carols. We will sing many of the old favorites including Rudolph, Frosty, Jingle Bells, and a number of favorite carols. Lyrics provided.
In case of rain, we will meet and sing in the sanctuary.
Senior Social Holiday Party, Dec 14, 1:30pm
Thursday afternoon we everyone near and far to get in the Christmas Spirit as we gather to tell of a few of our favorite things. Cookies, carols, mince pie, and many other treats are instore.
All welcome no matter your age.
Christmas Pageant, Dec 24 10am
Narrated by our children and family ministries, all are invited to this playful pageant as we retell and act out the Christmas story.
Christmas Eve Service, Dec 24, 7:30pm
Christmas Eve Traditional Service of Lessons, Carols and Candlelight.
One of the most beautiful services of the year, we welcome God’s love being born among us. Familiar carols and stories guide us as we wonder how this old, old story might give new meaning to our lives today.
This year’s Christmas offering will be used to address the epidemic of loneliness in the Quiet Corner.
All are Welcome!
New Year's Eve Brunch Church, Dec 31, 10am
On this last Sunday of the year we promise good company, meaningful connection, and joyful conversation.
Worship will be a pot-luck brunch held in the Dining Hall. All are welcome! Come as you are, bring what you can.