Christmas Eve Services in Old Greenwich: Traditional Christmas Pageant and Gift Collection at First Congregational Church of Greenwich, 108 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich.
Christmas Eve
Sunday, December 24
Christmas Eve in Old Greenwich will feature four different services at the First Congregational Church, each service designed for a special audience.
From the first service at 10:00 a.m., primarily designed for families with young children, to the 9:00 p.m. Candlelight Service that particularly attracts high school and returning college students, all age groups will have ample opportunities for worship and celebration on this special day of the year.
The afternoon and early evening services, at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., will feature performances of First Church’s traditional Christmas Pageant, “Once in Royal David’s City,” re-enacted by adult and school-age members of the congregation in colorful period costumes.
At all four services, the church will also be collecting clothing, toys, books or other useful items to be delivered to Covenant to Care for Children, an interfaith charity that provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused and/or impoverished.
Worshippers are encouraged to bring gifts for children wrapped in plain white paper, which gives the illusion of snow when placed under the Christmas trees in the Meetinghouse. The Christmas Eve gift collection is a long tradition at First Church and a celebration of community involvement.
Complete schedule for Christmas Eve at First Church in Old Greenwich:
10:00 a.m. Family Service (For our youngest families)
Music by The Cherub Choir
Nativity Scene featuring Church School Children
Readings and prayers by Rev. Patrick Collins
3:00 p.m. Family Service
Music by The Children’s Choir
“Once in Royal David’s City” Christmas Pageant
Readings and prayers by Rev. Richard S. DenUyl, Jr.
6:00 p.m. Festival Service
Music by The Chancel Choir and Brass
“Once in Royal David’s City” Christmas Pageant
Readings and prayers by Rev. Richard S. DenUyl, Jr.
9:00 p.m. Youth/Alumni Candlelight & Communion Service
Music by The Youth/Alumni Choir and harp
Readings and prayers by Rev. Patrick Collins