Meaning of Christmas on display

Published 5:01 pm Friday, December 11, 2015

First United Methodist Church of Clanton will present its annual Christmas show performed by the church’s adult choir group.

It will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday in the gym with refreshments to be offered afterward.

The program has become a staple on the church’s calendar of events. This year’s theme is “A Christmas Story,” which looks to relive the true meaning of Christmas.

“We’ll have two narrators as well as the music,” minister of music Greg Faulkner said. “If you’ve got someone there that doesn’t totally understand Christmas, by the time they leave, they will definitely have a better understanding as to why we celebrate.”

According to Faulkner, the adult choir is comprised mostly of church members, while most of the orchestra is made up of musicians that will arrive for rehearsal at 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Faulkner has directed the show for the past six years, and the preparation for the event begins months in advance.

“We start in August of each year to select the music and then begin rehearsing in September,” Faulkner said. “We just continue to refine the music until we reach the service.”

Tickets are free, and donations are accepted. However, seating is limited and a large crowd is expected to attend.

“It’s a good idea to call the church office and get one so that you can be assured a seat,” Pastor Rob West said. “Get there early to visit with friends and share in the cheer of the season.”

The children’s choir will display their talents and love of Christmas with a show of their own at 6 p.m. in the gym on Sunday entitled “Bethlehem Project.”

A church-wide Christmas party will be held immediately following the children’s performance on Sunday.

“It is by far the highlight of our year,” Faulkner said. “It uses music to help capture the Christmas spirit.”