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Hernando Today

A Nazarene Christmas

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By MAUREA SLEESMAN Hernando Today correspondent

The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 20, 2008

SPRING HILL - One Nazarene church goes to extra measures in its seasonal events and free community outreach at Christmas.

Last night outside Spring Hill Calvary Church, several robed children and teens portrayed an elaborate nativity, and throngs of local families brought children to enjoy the live action and animals, which included donkeys and a camel. A newer couple at the church donated the manger structure and thatching for the roof, solid enough to support a brave live angel on high.

At 8 p.m., the Children's choir, directed by Alicia Thompson featured 20 well-rehearsed voices ages three through 12, singing beside the manger.

Inside the church, free cocoa and coffee kept folks warm while watching the Hallmark movie "A Season for Miracles" starring Lynn Redgrave and Laura Dern.

Happy kids grinned for their free photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The church also offered free childcare one night so parents could allot time for Christmas shopping or go out for dinner or enjoy quiet alone time.

A recent yard sale included free clothing along with free hot dogs and coffee. The sales benefited the extensive weekly church food pantry and charity outreach ministry "Somebody Loves You." Recipients may sign up at the church or just drop by on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. until noon.

Tonight at 6 p.m. and tomorrow at 10 a.m., you are invited to see a drama with live caroling, "The Valley Haven Christmas Show." The Sunday bulletin proclaims "You'll laugh. You'll cry. It will be unforgettable!" Music Director and Associate Pastor Thad Haynes loved the drama but felt that music would greatly enhance it. His bachelor of arts in education, private music collection and previous seven years spent as youth and music director informed his selection of a variety of music and carols to highlight the story. The setting is a rest home where lonely residents find Merry Christmas surprises and family love. "A church choir comes to sing, and some unexpected visitors discover special reunion and gifts of the heart," Haynes explained.

"The sometimes unlikely cast of all ages will surprise and touch you as they weave a story of lonely people at Christmas. Some 25 singers have been rehearsing too since September, so the music and drama are something to behold."

Haynes noted that new Contemporary worship services will begin in January, held Saturday nights at 6 p.m. Musicians are "welcome and needed, especially for percussion bass and saxophone. Audience members and families and all who would enjoy praise and worship and fellowship are welcome. Childcare is provided. Dress comfortably and come on over."

NYI, Nazarene Youth International church youth - affectionately called "The Noise"- and "Caravan" children enjoyed Christmas parties last Wednesday, and meet every week.

The Christmas Eve service will be at 6 p.m. "It is to be a quiet service to reflect on the birth of our Savior and the meaning it has on our lives," Haynes said.

The service will include traditional carols, candlelight, a special duet, and a video of a child reading the Christmas story, along with a brief devotional.

New Year's Eve service will begin at 7 p.m., a short service of reflection of the past year and inspiration for 2009.

Speaking on behalf of the church, Senior Pastor Wes Harris and his wife Aleta wish all a Merry Christmas. "We just want to help make Christmas a reality so it's not about what we spend; it's always about Jesus and His love.

"We want to live and demonstrate that giving of ourselves, serving others and sharing that love. We were able to provide several food baskets for Thanksgiving charity outreach, as we will for Christmas. Come, celebrate with us. Merry Christmas."

The seasonal services are free although a love offering will be taken and people are encouraged to bring donated foods for the "Somebody Loves You Ministry," helping the community charity outreach and food pantry held each Tuesday.

When do they meet?

"The Valley Haven Christmas Show"

Drama with music: 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 21

Also 10 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 21

Sunday school all ages:

9:30 a.m.

Sunday worship services: 10:40 a.m.

Food pantry: Tuesdays 10 a.m. to noon

Wednesday family night:

7 p.m.

Christmas Eve service:

6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24

New Year's Eve service:

7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 31

Jerry Applebee: 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 9

Spring Hill Church of the Nazarene is located at 235 Cobblestone Drive (north off County Line Road), Spring Hill. Phone: 683-0587 Web site: www.springhillcalvarynaz.org

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