C HRISTMAS M EMORIES AT C ENTENARY

Sunday evening services were common at Centenary in the early years. They were patterned after the morning services, but were occasionally replaced by “special” services, particularly during Advent.

On the second Sunday of Advent, the “Service of White Gifts and Candles,” or, the “White Gifts Service,” provided an opportunity to help restock the church’s food closet — which in those days was what it actually was — a closet where food was stored.

As a child, the highlight for me was walking down the center aisle, placing cans of food we had carefully wrapped in white tissue paper on tables, and receiving a white candle in return. The lighted candles, with their soft warm glow, gradually transformed the sanctuary as organist Margaret Sandresky played the familiar strains of “Silent night, Holy Night.” As we sang, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was truly special — for me it was a part of Christmas that made, Christmas, Christmas. As everyone left, they were treated to the enchanting sight of luminaria that had been placed on the sidewalks all around the church grounds. For a youngster like me, it was magical. The sanctuary was usually very well attended during those years, but over time, attendance began to decline. There was somewhat of a resurgence in the early 1970s when, after a snack supper, all would board chartered buses and go caroling to those church members who were ‘shut in.’ After which, we returned to the church, refreshed by the experience, for a cup of hot chocolate.

In more recent years, the service prominently featured music by the children’s choirs and short Christmas pageants. Pastor Mark Ralls extended the giving of “White gifts” to all the services of the day. The response to this change by the congregation was overwhelming. The White Gifts service continued for a few more years, but as attendance continued to dwindle, the service finally disappeared from the Advent calendar altogether.

As we begin the Advent season, what is past is not forgotten. The “White Gifts” service is still a fond memory for many. Aspects of this very moving service may still be found in other services and church activities. For example, the harvest gifts just before Thanksgiving; and the candlelight communion on Christmas Eve. So, let us keep the spirit of “White gifts” the whole year through. As it is written in the Gospel of St. Matthew, 25:40 —

“As you did for the least among us, you did for me.”

Worship at a Glance

Dec.

5:00 Festival of 9 Lessons & Carols 4:30 Prelude

Details for all worship opportunities can be found on the last page.

Corine Brouwer, Concertmaster of the Winston-Salem Symphony Joshua Sobel, Centenary Organ Scholar