(November 27, 2012)

Centenary holds annual Christmas Candlelight Service December 7

SHREVEPORT, LA — The annual Christmas Candlelight Service at Centenary College will be held Friday, December 7, at 6:00 p.m. with gathering music beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Brown Memorial Chapel. The Centenary family extends a warm invitation to the Shreveport-Bossier community to attend this traditional free holiday event.

"Christmas Candlelight is a beautiful service of scripture, music, and message that leads us into the Advent season," said Reverend Betsy Eaves, Director of UMC Relations and Chaplain. "The chapel is at its loveliest all aglow in candlelight and the choral music is always breathtaking. We are particularly excited to welcome Bishop Cynthia Harvey, newly appointed bishop to the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. Bishop Harvey will be bringing the Advent message. We look forward to opening our doors and our hearts to welcome all who attend."

The Centenary College Choir, under the direction of Dr. David Hobson, and Camerata, under the direction of Professor Cory Wikan, will provide the music for the Candlelight Service. Organist Dr. Hollice Watson and a brass ensemble will accompany them. In addition to the choral performances, the choirs will lead the congregation in singing traditional hymns. The service will close with the lighting of candles and singing Silent Night.

Reverend Eaves will lead the service with President David Rowe giving the bidding prayer and Bishop Harvey bringing the message. Students Hannah Henderson, Chad Nelson, Brittany Richardson, and Austin Rinehart will bring the scripture lessons. A reception for all participants and attendees will follow in the Magale Library Foyer.

Centenary's Student Development division is collecting gloves to benefit the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission. The Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission currently has a shortage of good gloves to hand out to people this winter. New or gently used gloves will be accepted.

For more information, please contact Reverend Betsy Eaves at email or 318.869.5108.