The theme of "Candles, Carols and Communion" is never more present than the Christmas Eve. The is aglow with lighted candles. Familiar carols are sung by the congregation and the Choir. Special soloists and musicians excel in their presentations. Then a very special communion is served. As they come forward to be served, Pastor personally blesses each person. It is a moving time for all involved. It is a particular time to strengthen and cement family memories of spiritual sharing. The service often ends with the lighting of each person's candle and the singing of "Silent Night" followed by "Joy to the World." The love and warmth of the congregation was shared with members and guests before and after the service. The importance of such times is discovered in this letter following the 2006 service. The following week this letter was received:
"Dear Reverend McKinney and congregation of Christians United Church,
"From the bottom or our hearts, we wish to thank each and every one of you for making our Christmas away-from-home so very, very special. The love and warmth we felt in your church we will cherish always. Thank you. Our prayer to each of you is this:
May God give you long life and good health;
May He bless each of your comings and goings;
May He prosper your work and your rest; and
May He bless your children and grandchildren always.
Amen."
In 2007 before Christmas their oldest son was killed in a tragic accident. He had been present at the 2006 Christmas Eve service which prompted his parents to write the above message. Christians United Church is blessed to have some of his family as members.