![]() Orange Presbyterian Church has offered a Blue Christmas service for some time now. The concept is simple. For many people, Christmas isn't "the most wonderful time of the year." It can be a harsh reminder of lost loved ones and lost opportunities. The commercialized joyousness that seems to be everywhere can add to the sorrow of those in pain or mourning. The Blue Christmas service is one of quiet contemplation. It acknowledges those feelings and offers solace. Wednesday evening, December 20 turned out to be a very special service. ![]() It marked the highest attendance for our Blue Christmas services. As always, most of the attendees came from outside the OPC church family. And something special happened in the sanctuary that evening. I would say most of us felt the healing presence of God that night. - Ralph Graves, OPC Communications Team (Denny's homily is available below. Click on the player to listen.)
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![]() Sunday, December 17, 2023, was the Third Sunday of Advent. It was also Preschool Sunday. On the third Sunday of every month the Orange Presbyterian Weekday School staff, students, and their families attend this special service at OPC. The children sang some music of the season, then sat down for a word with Rev. Denny Burnette. With Christmas fast approaching, Denny knew what was on their minds. His simple message focused on the concept of gifts -- that they're expressions of love. And how God's own gift this season is a profound expression of his love for us. OPC still doesn't officially have a choir. But that didn't deter Music Facilitator Theresa Torian. She simply got together some talented singers and created one. The choir provided special music for the Third Sunday of Advent service.
It was a blend of both OPC members and non-members. All volunteering their time and talent to make worship more meaningful. And we appreciate their efforts! Special thanks to Cheryl Lewis, Caryn Block, Joanna Davies, Don Davies, Leo Mallek, Pat Nabers, Betsy Smith, Tracey Stakem, Charles Torian, and Fay Utz. And of course, their director, Theresa Torian. Below is a recording of the choir. (It's taken from the audio for the service, so sound quality isn't the best.) |
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