‘I Have Seen The Light’ Dec. 13

JAY — The Bean’s Corner Baptist Church choir will present the Christmas musical “I Have Seen The Light” during the morning worship service Sunday, Dec. 13.

Created and arranged by Craig Adams, the musical features traditional carols, the title song and narration. The service, which begins at 10:30 a.m., will also include congregation carol singing and a message from the Rev. Ira Hall.

An additional performance will be given at the Calvary Bible Church in Andover at 5 p.m. that day.

Other events during the season include a children’s musical during the Sunday School hour Sunday, Dec. 20, and a Christmas Eve service at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24.

FMI: 207-645-2915.

Advent series continues in Paris

PARIS — “Poking Holes in the Dark” is the name of the Rev. Don Mayberry’s sermon Sunday, Dec. 13, as he continues his Advent series at First Congregational Church, 17 East Main St.

The sermon focuses on the various ways that people live that allow God’s light to shine and reflect in their world. “Even during dark times, such as the world is facing now, there is a beautiful optimism when you live with faith; when you choose light over darkness and hope over fear,” said Mayberry.

In addition to Sunday worship and Sunday school at 10 a.m. each week, the church will hold two services on Christmas Eve, one at 7 p.m. and one at 11:30 p.m. Both are candlelight services. On Christmas Day the church will host a community group offering a free Christmas Dinner from 11:30 a.m to 1 p.m. Take-out will be available.

FMI: www.southpariscongregational.com, www.facebook.com/south.p.church?fref=ts.

Sermon topic announced

PARIS — “Having or Being” is the title of Silver Moore-Leamon’s sermon Dec. 13 at the First Universalist Church on Pine Street.

Music for the 10 a.m. worship service is under the direction of Donna Hurd. Coffee and fellowship will follow the worship service and all are welcome. Child care is available, and the church is wheelchair-accessible.

The First Universalist Church of South Paris welcomes and celebrates all beliefs.

Service to support mourning

FARMINGTON — Fairbanks Union Church will host a special “Community Service of Compassion and Hope in the Christmas Season” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at 583 Fairbanks Road.

The service will be led by the Rev. Douglas Allan Dunlap, chaplain; the Rev. Gayle Holden, pastor, Trinity Methodist Church; and the Rev. David Smith, pastor, Wilton Congregational Church.

The Christmas season is a joyful time for many people, but for those who have lost a loved one or who are struggling with the emotions that the Christmas season can evoke, this can be a difficult time of the year. This service will provide music, song and prayer in support of those experiencing loss. A candle-lighting ceremony will be part of the service as well as special music. 

FMI: 207-779-1785.

Lifetree to discuss embracing life

LEWISTON — Lifetree Cafe will present “Pursuing an Audacious Life: Inspiration From a Man Who Has Traveled to Every Country,” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at South Lewiston Baptist Church, 1919 Lisbon Road.

The program features a filmed interview with Chris Guillebeau, an author who set a goal of traveling to every country in the world and did so in 10½ years.

Guillebeau first developed the dream while working as an aid worker in western Africa. “Once I had this idea, it felt totally crazy, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it,” says Guillebeau. “I knew if I didn’t pursue it, I would always regret it. I saw it as a challenge, and I knew I had to try it.”

Admission to the hourlong event is free.

FMI: 207-783-3316, travisburleigh@gmail.com.

Blue Christmas service at Cavalry

LEWISTON — A Blue Christmas service will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 59 Sabattus St.

This service is especially designed for anyone who is having an emotionally difficult time during the many holiday celebrations at this time of year. Anyone who would benefit from a recognition of the fact that Christmas is not always a happy time but a time that can bring back sad memories is welcome. Anyone who is feeling overburdened by others’ seemingly perfect festivities is welcome.

Calvary is a Reconciling Church where everyone is respected and loved as a child of God. The Rev. Annie Baker-Streevy is the pastor.

FMI: www.calvarylewiston.org/, www.facebook.com/CalvaryUMCLewiston/?fref=ts, 207-782-3221.