By Linda Elissalde
Bay Vue Methodist Church hosted its annual Christmas Eve Service on December 24, 2025. Their traditional welcoming ceremony for the arrival of baby Jesus opened with Marsha Fredenburg’s welcome to all. Pastor Valerie Hudson was honored for her contributions to bringing musical excellence to Bay Vue’s congregation. Roy Kincaid explained the, “Lighting of the Christ Candle”. Everyone joined in responsive singing.
A service highlight was the choral presentation of Reverend Hudson’s cantata, “The Christmas Story”. It musically explained The Long Journey, No Room in the Inn, The Birth, and ended with Alleluia! Piano, church choir, and bells accompanied this eloquent piece followed by Pastor’s sermon, “The Birth That Changed Everything”.
All attendees were invited to partake in Holy Communion. This was followed by the traditional Service of Light with candles. Everyone received a candle as the sanctuary became dark. Ushers helped with the lighting. Then all joined in singing, “Silent Night, Holy Night”. Pastor Valerie Hudson delivered the benediction, “Go out in the peace of Christ”.
Folk left quietly to ponder the welcoming of Christ Jesus as told in the wondrous cantata, THE CHRISTMAS STORY.
