The Rev. Neil Cazares-Thomas
Let’s Go Caroling
Members of Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ can be seen and heard caroling on Thursday, Dec. 15 at the corner of Cedar Springs and Throckmorton at 8 p.m.
The Rev. Neil G. Cazares-Thomas, senior pastor, called the caroling an important statement that is made to our community, especially for many who have been ostracized or rejected by religious hatred.
“It is important that our progressive religious voice is heard, especially in a time of such division and hatred in our country and world,” he said. “This is one way that we at the Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ can give something back to our extended community at this special time of the year.”
Hark
Hark is the don’t miss annual Christmas music concert at Cathedral of Hope — a night of beautiful music, words and community celebration featuring the Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra, Cathedral Bells and Voices of Hope.
“This is one way that we at the Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ can give something back to our extended community at this special time of the year,” said Cazares-Thomas. “It is important to acknowledge and thank so many who support our work throughout the year and this offering is just one way we can do that.”
The free concert is at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17. A free-will love offering for the Music Department will be received.
Children’s Christmas Pageant
For the first time since 2012, the children and youth of Cathedral of Hope will present the story of the Nativity at the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. worship services on Sunday, Dec. 18.
“Children and youth are a vital part of our church community and to include them in worship is an important statement to the future of our church,” said Cazares-Thomas. “At this time of the year, when people gather in community to celebrate many holidays and traditions of many faiths, this will be yet another tradition that will cause much joy.”
About 45 children and youth will lead the “sermon” part of the service, which will have special music and the lighting of the forth candle on the Advent wreath, the candle of love.
Christmas services
Christmas services take place at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. on Christmas Eve and at 10 a.m. on Christmas morning. The 9 p.m. service will be bilingual. The 11 p.m. service is a candlelight service.
Cathedral of Hope is at 5910 Cedar Springs Road.
