Christmas is almost here, but I feel like I have experienced the joy of remembering the Birth of our Savior several times lately. My husband and I attended the Christmas concert benefit for the Pregnancy Options Clinic on Saturday afternoon at the First Southern Baptist Church of Ava. The Christmas music and classical music performed by the string duet, trio, quartet and quintet were absolutely wonderful.
Our Christmas program and Church dinner was held at Red Bank on Sunday, Dec. 19. Brother Jerry Huff began this special day by providing a warm welcome to everyone. He also led the congregation in singing, “Happy Birthday to Jesus.” Willene Adams gave a birthday offering to commemorate the December birthdays of two of her grand children and then sung a special song that was on her heart. Gary Lirley led the congregation in Christmas hymns. After Sunday school, Brother Les began the Christmas program by reading scripture. Jerry and Tattie Maggard gave a reading that compared the Christmas story of Jesus’ birth with the story of his death on the cross. Margi Gates then quoted a scripture passage, by memory, from Luke 1:5-23 and 37. Little Noah and Abbey Moreland sang. They were so cute, and did a great job of singing their special. Jerry Huff and Jeane Huff, each sung special music that was enjoyed by all. Pastor Les, Eloise and Miranda Hallmark sung a selection of five Christmas songs with scriptures of the Christmas Story between each song. Treats were passed out to all that attended after the services. The Christmas meal was filled with many wonderful, traditional foods. Everyone had a great time eating and visiting with each other.
My fondest childhood, memories of Christmas included the wonderful programs at school and at church. I remember being the Christmas Fairy in a Christmas play at school. My mother fashioned me a costume out of green crepe paper, especially for that part. I remember having to be careful not to sit down and wrinkle it before my part came up in the play. I was given a special song to sing for a church program when I was about seven years old. My sister, Joan, accompanied me on the piano. She could play the piano so well that she was actually voted in as the church pianist, at the age of twelve.
After church Sunday, Jeane and Jerry Huff took Maxine Lirley to visit with James and Debbie Lirley and their family. Maxine really enjoys getting to visit in the homes of her children.
Pam Shell and Bill Holland made a surprise visit in the home of Gary and Alice Lirley one evening last week.
Well folks, that’s all the news I have for now. This article has to be in early this week so I’d better hurry and get it to the Herald.
Have a wonderful Christmas holiday with your family and friends.
