Published in the November 29, 2018 edition
WAKEFIELD — So, are you ready to get in the spirit of the holiday season? You need to look no farther than the First Parish Congregational Church of Wakefield. Your first option will be to attend the church’s Friday, November 30, Pie Social that will happen from 6-8 p.m. The town will conduct its tree lighting ceremony on the Wakefield Common that night, so after you’ve attended that, just walk on over to First Parish. It’s a family affair. Hot chocolate, coffee and assorted pies will be provided and it’s free.
During the Pie Social the church’s music director, Don Hodgkins, will play holiday tunes on the piano and on the organ too. Don told this writer, “The Pie Social is one of my favorite events because I get to welcome people to First Parish and show off our beautiful sanctuary.” Volunteers will help you ring the church bells if you want to.
Then, Saturday, December 1, at 5 p.m. First Parish will provide an opportunity for you and your family to escape, just for a little while, the commercial side of the Christmas season, when it will offer its The Living Nativity. Children, parents and all those who want to celebrate the real reason for the season are invited to attend this half hour program at the bandstand. We know that lots of you will be taking in the town’s annual Holiday Stroll that day, so why not stroll on down to First Parish after you’ve done that.
The Christmas story will be narrated as costumed adults and children proceed to the manger. Angels, the Wise Men, Mary and Joseph and, of course, Baby Jesus will all be there. Singing of familiar carols will be led by the church’s Cornerstone band and there will be a farm animal petting area which may be visited just prior to The Living Nativity and for a short time after. Beverages and assorted refreshments will be served inside at First Parish just across the parking lot.
If those events aren’t enough to fill you with the spirit, please consider attending the Friday night, December 14, Messiah Sing in the church’s sanctuary. Great music and great singing. Refreshments will be served after the singing.
The First Parish Congregational Church of Wakefield is the stone church on the shore of Lake Quannapowitt on Church Street. Additional information can be found at the church’s website: www.fpccwakefield.org or call the church office at 781-245-1539.
