Here are Christmas concerts and special services to celebrate the season
Handel’s “Messiah” with the Ramos family string quintet will be at 9 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at Union United Methodist Church, 721 E. Main St., Belleville. The public is invited and a Christmas tea will follow.
Special ministry services at Victory Family Church
The Rev. Tony Cooke and the Rev. Lisa Cooke will minister at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at Victory Family Church, 555 South Belt West, Belleville. Since 2002, the reverends have traveled on a mission to strengthen churches and leaders around the world. Rev. Tony Cooke has authored multiple books and been translated into eight different languages. Information: 618-235-6373, theresvictory4you@gmail.com.
‘Blue Christmas’ service in New Baden
New Baden United Methodist Church will host a “Blue Christmas” service at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, at 107 W. Hanover St., New Baden. This service is open to anyone struggling with loss or other stresses during the holiday season. Information: 618-588-3588.
The Christmas story in song
The Chancel Choir of First United Presbyterian Church will present “Reaching With Love” during the service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, 1303 Royal Heights Road, Belleville. This year’s cantata will be a collection of carols and readings designed to illuminate the annual Advent theme. Information: 618-233-0295.
Caseyville ‘Blue Christmas’ service
The Caseyville United Methodist Church will have a “Blue Christmas” service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 119 W. Lincoln Ave., Caseyville. This service is for those having difficulty celebrating Christmas because of grief or personal circumstances. All are welcome. Information: 618-334-3388 or the church Facebook page.
St. Paul Church Christmas concert
The annual St. Paul United Church of Christ Christmas concert will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at 115 West B St., Belleville. The program will include holiday selections by the Chancel Choir, B Street Band and Glory Ringers and sing-along carols. In lieu of tickets, a free will offering will be received. Information: 618-233-3303.
This story was originally published December 14, 2017 at 3:23 PM with the headline "Here are Christmas concerts and special services to celebrate the season."