Crew Lake Methodist Church had the Hanging of the Greens service Dec. 7, 2025.
Members of the church and their children or grandchildren helped decorate the church. Lorena Cheek was a great help with this. She helped them know when to enter, what greens to carry and where to place them.
Dianne Williams read the meaning of the service. Churches and homes were decorated with evergreens at Christmas in ancient times. The fir and pine became known as trees of life that represent Christ. Next the choir sang O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
Next Williams read about the Sanctuary Greens and what they symbolize.
Two members brought in two large wreaths and hung them on the doors that lead into the back room of the church. The circle of the wreath shows no ending or beginning. It shows God always was and always is.
Then the choir sang
Deck the Halls.
Some members and children came to decorate the altar and place pew markers.
The next topic about poinsettias was read by Williams. It is a winter flowering plant. It symbolizes eternal life and the birth of Christ. The red leaves call to mind the star which shown at that first Christmas. It also reminds us of the male infants that King Herod had killed to destroy Jesus. The color red also symbolizes Baby Jesus who became Savior of the world.
Members brought in poinsettias and placed them in front of the altar.
O Little Town of Bethlehem was sung. Jean Turner gave the reading of the Advent wreath. The wreath reminds us of God Himself and eternal life.
Bill Jones lit the candles symbolizing the light of love coming into the world through the birth of the Son, Jesus Christ. Love Come Down at Christmas
was sung.
Then Pastor Marshall Sevier presented Holy Communion. All were invited to take part. The bread represents Jesus’ body and the juice his blood, all given for us.
Bro. Sevier read the Christmas story. Then with a prayer and blessing, all were dismissed.
A tasting party was held in the fellowship hall where food and fellowship was enjoyed.
