Just before the serivce was to begin, the lights were dimmed and Tim Amstutz and the musicans sang a prelude.

In many Christian traditions, the liturgical seasons are not as extended as in the Catholic tradition. The service this morning began with an Advent dance as a part of the leading up to the celebration of the birth of the Christ.

A strong choir offered a lovely musical interlude in the middle of the program.

Chris Bowman gathered the children at the front of the church and shared with them a Christmas story with unusual details they were asked to notice.

Bob Toan, the minister of the Second Mile Church, was the preacher this year with a theme that emphasized that Christmas is about God.