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Atkinson Congregational Church is set to host various services and events leading up to Christmas Eve and beyond. All activities involving worship, as well as the Christmas concert, will be held both in person and livestreamed from the church’s website.
The first of four Sundays in the Advent season is taking place Nov. 29. At the 10:30 a.m. service, a brief Advent observance will take place. Children in “Kid’s Club” will also take part in a variety of Advent projects.
Happening Friday, Dec. 11, is Kid’s Movie Night from 5-8 p.m. The event will give kids the chance to have fun while parents go Christmas shopping or simply have the night off. The church welcomes donations for the free event. Children must be potty trained.
An afternoon of music is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 12. A wide range of musicians will showcase their talents, including the Atkinson Bell Choir and the Kokopelli Flute Ensemble. A “cookie walk” takes place following the event. The concert starts at 2:30 p.m. The church asks anyone interested in participating contact the church by emailing [email protected] or by calling 603-362-5519.
The church is holding its “Blue Christmas – Longest Night” service, Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. The church explains, “The event recognizes that for some people, the season is not joyful. With a gentle level of support and hope, this service reminds us that even during periods of grief, loss, or sadness, Jesus is the light of the world that no darkness can obscure.”
Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24, features a 7 p.m. candlelight service to honor the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. Music and a message from Rev. Paige Besse-Rankin highlights the service.
An epiphany worship and party are planned for Sunday, Jan. 3, to celebrate the arrival of the Magi, who, the church says, recognized God the Son as a human being in Jesus Christ. Worship that day will begin at 10 a.m. and will be celebrated jointly with congregants from Hampstead Congregational Church. Following worship, a potluck party will take place.
The church, at 101 Main St., Atkinson, N.H., suggests anyone seeking more information about the church, including how to view services virtually, receive the church’s weekly e-newsletter and submit prayer requests online, may visit the website or call 603-362-5519.