On Sunday evening, December 17, the sanctuary filled with guests for the annual Christmas concert. The program was titled “Light: Out of the Darkness,” and featured the orchestra, choir, and narrators, as well as soloists and several ensembles, directed by Gary Riler. After a welcome from Pastor Dave Lambert, the program opened with the orchestra playing a Welsh hymn, “Rhosymedre,” followed by “A Christmas Festival.” Then, accompanied by the orchestra, the choir and congregation sang “Tapestry of Carols” together, which included several favorite Christmas hymns.

The cantata featured narration read by Yvonne Wilson and Tom Pricskett. They explained that Jesus is the source of spiritual Light, and that His incarnation was the thrilling moment when the Light came to dwell with men. The choir songs recounted His life, beginning at His birth with “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” which featured Marcus Luka as soloist, and “The Glory Revealed.”

A mixed octet sang a gentle song titled “Here with Us,” with Deborah Brenner as soloist singing, “Hallelujah! Heaven’s love reaching down to save the world.” Later, Ashley Morgan sang a lullaby for Baby Jesus, “Come Hushed to this Holy Place.”

The orchestra played a stirring number called “Emmanuel Medley,” and then a mixed quartet sang “Manger Far Away Medley” with Jennifer Worthington as soloist. The mood turned celebratory during the song “Ancient Wonder in the Night,” and the narrators spoke of how the Light of Christ continues on today and will shine forever. Michael McCarville sang “In the First Light,” which reminded listeners that Christ’s birth is celebrated because He later died, rose with victory over sin, and one day will come back to rule the earth. The lyrics of the song recall that angels sang to celebrate Jesus’ birth, but the song of the saints will be even greater upon His promised return. “Hallelujah (Light Has Come)” gave a joyful conclusion to the evening, which included a ladies’ trio and featured Victoria Heintz as soloist.

The concert was a beautiful reminder of the gift of salvation that came through Christ, something to be grateful for all year long but especially in this season of remembering His birth.