First Congregational Church of Leverett

Candlelight service, worship in music Music director Michèle Smith, the choir, its soloists, and more than 100 people joined to worship in the spirit of the Christmas season Friday evening, December 23. Lee Barstow offered an interfaith meditation and prayer. The music included traditional hymns sung by all, including “Silent Night” when candles were lit one by one by those circled within the sanctuary.

Advent candles were lit by Kelley, Katie and Carrie Burke. Soloists Tracey Field, Dick Hankinson, Kim Mohlar, Beth Logan Raffeld and Andrew Winternitz presented a variety of anthems and pieces.

Other choir members were Alice Field, Hal Ricker, Sarah Roys and Betty Wilson. Katie Burke and Claudia Gere accompanied “Silent Night” on guitars. Scripture readers were Alice Field, Jeff Field, Dick Hankinson and Judy Ricker. Michèle Smith took a bow in enthusiastic recognition of the musical achievement, including piano and organ accompaniment.