1984-2024
The History of The Living Christmas Tree
On February 8, 1984 at a business meeting, Joel Duncan, FBC Minister of Music, made a motion to amend the 1984 budget to add the sum of $35,750 toward the purchase of a Living Christmas Tree including equipment, decorations and miscellaneous expenses. The motion was tabled for 30 days and then at the next business meeting on March 7, 1984, it was approved. One of the questions raised during the first business meeting was concerning reoccurring costs. The Music Committee said the costs could vary between $6,000-$12,000.
But the history of FBC’s Living Christmas Tree did not start there. It was a previous Minister of Music, Kendell Smith who formed a music committee (1981 or 1982) to investigate the possibility of having a Living Christmas at FBC. It was during this time that two churches nearby (First Baptist Church – Montgomery and First Baptist Church - Jackson, Tennessee) were already performing Living Christmas Trees. The members of this committee were Steve Tondera, Joyce Zackie, Betty Patterson and Susan Cloud. During the 1982 Christmas season these members went to see the performances at these previously mentioned churches. Susan Cloud remembered seeing the Living Christmas Tree at FBC Jackson and Joyce Zackie remembered visiting FBC Montgomery. They came back insp Living Christmas Tree at FBC. In preparing to present the idea of a Living Christmas Tree at church congregation they calculated costs, pre budget and estimated the number of people th attend such an event. Susan Cloud was asked Music Committee to present their idea at a pra early the next year. There was opposition, so th Christmas Tree did not get approved for the 19 Christmas season.
Kendell Smith resigned as Minister of Music in July 1983. A search committee was selected and Joel Duncan from FBC Jackson, Tennessee was elected as our Minister of Music beginnin Nov
Soon after arriving, Joel Duncan arranged for Tom Pryor to observe construction of the Living Christmas Tree at FBC Jackson. In the video interview with Tom Pryor on April 29, 2003, Tom said he and his wife, Jo, went to Jackson during the set up of FBC Jackson’s Living Christmas Tree. Tom took pictures, did drawings and made notes. He also got information concerning the costs of their LCT. He came back to Huntsville and prepared a cost estimate.
The Messenger, dated December 15, 1983, mentioned Joel Duncan taking a group to see the performance of the Living Christmas Tree at his former
Tom Pryor “Mr LCT”
Click Here for the transcript of a 2003 interview with Tom Pryor
Tom Pryor, “Mr. LCT”, was chairman of the finance committee and dead set against wasting money on a Tree until he went with others to see a Tree done in Tennessee. He came back all afire and immediately began work on the Tree and renovations to the church. It took several hundred thousand dollars to strengthen the stage for about 300 people, to improve the lighting, and to employ a new sound system And it took a leap of faith by the congregation to raise that kind of money outside the normal budget! The Tree itself is an amazing design by Tom Pryor. The design is amazing because it had to be very stout, stable, and easily assembled and disassembled And, he was able to design the Tree and get it built in Texas for only $30,000. - Gerald Roberts
I remember Tom Pryor and his genteel manner, design of the LCT and meticulous placement of each steel support as well as each singer He was a daily fixture in the music suite during the LCT season. Oh, how I miss his “hello, Laura” in his perfect soft southern speech as he entered the Music Suite, nestled behind the Sanctuary Choir Loft and its Massive Tree of Steel - Laura Roberts
My husband Bill and I were fortunate to begin our LCT experiences on the ground floor. When Joel Duncan, our Min of Music, broached the idea with Bill, Joel knew he had a kindred soul. At that time, to get big ticket items in our church, one had to approach the "right few people” The Finance Committee took their job very seriously about being "frugal" with the church's finances. A fair amount of psychology and convincing was required. Joel took one of the key money guys to see the LCT at his former church in Jackson, TN. That man came back sold on the idea and supported it fully ‘til his death Bill and I both sang every year at every performance as long as his health allowed. After that he supervised construction, designed and built the prototype for the stage extensions Billy Orton, another minister of music, asked for, and designed a way to more safely lift the star into place The last couple of years when he couldn't sing on the tree, he served as a spotter and door greeter For me - I sang - always second from the top -- best "seat" in the place At year 25, Bill and I said we'd stop and actually see the tree for the first time. But when that year was over, we couldn't find a place where we could have more fun. So we stayed. Until 2021 when Bill died I sang every year - just couldn't do it that year So I actually saw the tree like a regular person. But in 2022 - I was back in my spot. What a true blessing the Living Christmas Tree has been for the two of us but more importantly, for thousands of others. When we first began, the church wisely opted never to charge admission or "pass the plate" Isn't that a beautiful thing, and as it should be? To sing those magnificent songs, in the dark, from memory, as part of a team, all doing something together -- what a gift! - Anne Stone
I have been lucky enough to participate in all 40 LCT’s, starting in 1984. Over the years, I have missed only seven performances or dress rehearsals, including the last performance last year when I had to take my wife to the hospital after I was dressed to sing on the Tree. I hope I can continue singing on The Living Christmas Tree until we reach our 50th Anniversary - Gerald Roberts
All the singers on the LCT stand on boxes to make them the same height The first year, the tallest man on the tree was Ron Martin, so all the boxes were scaled to match that height. The next year, Pat Lewallen, who is several inches taller, was to be on the tree. Instead of changing all the boxes, a hole was cut in the floorboard and a box was hung down for him to stand in. His hanging down box was next to my 4' 2" husband, Rodger's, box, which was quite high and had a padded seat to raise Rodger up to the proper height Pat and Rodger always found it amusing that they were the same height. Their boxes were in the center of the front row so no one had to go across their boxes. - Susan Keene
Construction and First Year 19 84
The Joy of Christmas
The tree came about when our church hired a new minister of music from Tennessee, Joel Duncan. The tree was much smaller and less complicated then. It was very tall with a 6' star at the top There was only the main tree form and after some remodeling, there were extensions at the lower level fondly called shrubs, bushes, or "bushettes.” When the tree began, all the lighting was the old-fashioned Christmas bulbs and after about 30 minutes they were very hot to the touch. Eventually they were changed to LED lights - much cooler and not as likely to burn out. The stage grew to include not only our wonderful organ and piano but an orchestra, and at least on one occasion, two grand pianos played by none other than Steven Neilson and Ovid Young. The choir marched into the sanctuary for the first song, and often we held something in our hands. Sometimes it was a hand bell, sometimes a candle and once, huge flags The flags were very large and heavy - someone made the comment "Wonder what would happen if we used all three at the same time?!" One year, the tree included a Christmas folk song entitled “Bethlehem,” written by our organist, Jonathan Crutchfield. Someone invited a group of Nigerians who were visiting Redstone Arsenal to the performance. When the song began, the group moved to the aisles and did a Nigerian dance to match the music One of the songs during the Big Band year was "We Have Seen the Light,” and the choir pulled a joke on Billy Orton and donned sunglasses when they were spotlighted. We almost had to start over, but Billy was up to the challenge with his baton Again, on the same song, the spotlight came up on the trio of Greg Ellison, Darrell Eldridge, and to our surprise, interim pastor, Travis Collins! Another highlight each year is when a poem is delivered by Kimberly Collette In the early days of the tree, the same poem was recited by her mother, Martha Boothe. - Polly and Janet Crawford
I have had the honor and blessing to have sung on all the 39 years of the Living Christmas Tree. Joel Duncan invited me to sing the very first year even though at that time I didn't sing in the choir. I have been in the Sanctuary choir ever since Both Joel and next Billy Orton referred to the LCT as First Baptist's Christmas gift to the city of Huntsville. It was then and every year since the overflowing crowds tell how hungry people are to hear the precious story of Jesus' birth Many of the attendees never attend regular services but sit spellbound until the sound of the Hallelujah Chorus brings them to their feet The many years have featured an assortment of guest performers but I always feel it is that tall, tall tree with more than a hundred singers that is "the real gift" to the city of Huntsville. - Charlotte Davis
The first Living Christmas Tree
Click Here for a video of the 2012 tree construction
19 84
19 85
Hallelujah
1985 was the first year the tree was broadcast Christmas Day on WHNT-19
Bringing the Tree to Life: Lights and Greenery
I spent about 10 years as volunteer co-coordinator for decking and de-decking and I remember one time taking the tree down that we had a very eager man who wanted to help us We had very specific instructions of how to take the little lights off first, then the big lights and we took them off one strand at a time in reverse order of how they were put on as best we could. This well-meaning gentleman brought me the biggest ball of lights and my eyes got just as big as I realized that he had rolled up all the lights together and placed them in my hands I wanted to cry! But I bit my tongue and went to work at detangling them I clarified the instructions after that. Decking and de-decking were some of the best times getting to know people.
- Holly Canup
It was the very first LCT. I had been decorating and neede school, so I went by childcare to pick up my 4-year-old g remembered something I needed to tell one of the other decorators. John and I went back into the sanctuary, I delivered the message and turned to leave. Only problem was, I couldn't find John After looking under the pews, in all the corners, and calling with no answer, the room got quiet. A small voice from the very top of the tree said, "I can't see out." He refused to come down until I climbed up and held him up so he could see out
-Susan Keene
19
85
1986
I joined FBC in 1964 and am one of the first three trumpets to help Bianco Cox start the orchestra Werner Smock, Ken Watters and I are listed in the FBC History Book I have played many of the Christmas Trees, but missed some due to sickness and deaths in my family, especially 2008 when my sweetheart passed away. I have invited lots of people from several states that continue to come every year and say it gets better every time This group has meant so much to me all these years, brought me closer to God and helped my playing ability. We are a great team. I have played on the sanctuary floor, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall, left side of orchestra, as well as right side and middle I prefer the top left as I can see everyone. God has blessed us as a church in lots of ways: some of the best musicians in town, great directors and some professional organists and pianists I hope to play as long as I am physically able. - Joyce W. Ellett
1987: first interpretation for the Deaf
For the first Living Christmas Tree we came from Scottsboro to experience Christmas with First Baptist Church. Our invitation came from Sylvia Bailey. During the performance we were asked to turn in comment notes Our daughter, at the time around 12, wrote "Aunt Sylvia, you did great." After the program was over and the choir was back in the choir room Joel Duncan, the choir director at that time, read it to them Everyone knew who Aunt Sylvia was - Danny and Sandra Hallman
1988
1989
Some people might wonder how we can stand and sing night after night, but the truth is that the pleasure is all mine/ours....really. When else could one find the time to be still and sing songs of praise and thanks for God's gift to us at Christmas? It truly is pure bliss to make music with my fellow musicians and soak in all the atmosphere. The lights and decorations are beyond beautiful. Add to that the gift of music and the heartfelt message of each piece, those joys keep us fueled night after night. It would not feel like Christmas if we couldn't practice wonderful songs for many, many weeks and then share them during those four days. May He grant us grace to continue this tradition until He calls us Home. - Louise Walker
1990 1991
You never know when God may lead you in the unexpected. At the LTC retreat in 2015, Billy solicited potential verses to go with Ken Medema’s song, “In the Fullness of God’s Time” On that Thanksgiving holiday, I decided to take a stab at it. Prayerfully, I came up with some lines that read, “At the appointed time, the Creator of time came to earth as a fertilized egg; not by the seed of man, but by the Spirit of God. At the appointed time, the divine savior was born. A light from heaven shined down on the light of truth that was born for us.” Unfortunately, it not only had no rhyme, but there was no way it could be matched to Medema’s song tune With further prayer, I came up with a tune to match the words (with a few alterations). Before the Thanksgiving meal, I had a tune and six verses to go with it - all about the special times of God’s providence in which He intervened out of His love for us Weeks later, I added a verse about the Ascension and the indwelling of God’s Spirit at Pentecost and in later believers like ourselves I also altered some of the original wording It was never used in the LCT, but Billy graciously had our choir sing it that next spring. Ken Medema made that year’s LCT extra special. On Christmas evening in 2016, God’s Spirit led me to write another poem with an accompanying tune about His light The 2017 LTC theme was “See, the tender lamb appears” On a weekend in early October, I searched the Bible for scripture related to this theme. From that came a poem: Weeks later, I altered some of the words to be more biblically accurate and came up with a tune to go with the poem. I even shared the thoughts behind it and the new song (in my broken acapella voice) with the LTC choir at one of our devotion breaks. My musical background is limited (four years of piano lessons and didn’t join the choir until 2007) and I had never written any music before that first hymn in 2015 at age 61, but all things are possible with God. May He be glorified! - Scott Field
1991: candlelight processional tradition begins
My LCT story began when the minister of music at our church moved away, leaving us without a music minister I had heard about the Living Christmas Tree presentations at First Baptist Church, and wanted to join because I came from a musical family. My aunt was an organist and my parents and grandparents all sang in the church choir. Our son, Andrew, had attended preschool at FBC too In other words, it was meant to be So we moved our membership, and I began attending choir and LCT practice on Wednesday nights. I must say that I have sung in other choirs, including Handel's Messiah as a college freshman, but this was different. I had never participated in a choir where we MEMORIZED the words and music ahead of time Never met so many new people and made so many new friends! Our children, Andrew and Rosalynn, also joined the LCT choir as they grew up This was the best part for me! Andrew is a great baritone, while Rosalynn has a beautiful mezzo soprano voice. Singing together on the Living Christmas Tree was a dream come true for me! I will always be thankful to our Lord for opening the doors to this wonderful opportunity! - Elisa Fairless
1992
19 93 10th Anniversary
The Very Best Time of Year
Michael and I were both highly involved in all the trees until Covid. He played for many of them in the absemce of an organist on staff, while I spent most of the time close to the top of the tree where I had a great view of the congregation Sometimes that was shocking (or maybe surprising is better) as we had a couple smooching on the front row, and a mom breastfeeding at another performance, but the children dancing in the aisles made up for those times! I loved looking down on the two pianos the year we had a dual piano team.
Several years, I helped prepare the meal between performances for the choir and instrumentalists Once I was on staff, I became involved with the children who either sang or were a part of the nativity It was so sweet to watch them reverently look into the manger
Our children were young when the tree started, so they have been at many performances. I asked them to comment on their memories: “Seeing and hearing Dad play, looking for Mom at the top of the tree and then looking for other people I know, hearing the choir, the congregational gasp when the cross comes up, ”Hallelujah Chorus,” lying on the pews during rehearsals when Dad practiced, the words by the pastor which always tied it together, a feeling of festivity.”
There were some funny things too - like a rumor that went around that a choir member reached behind and superglued someone’s shoes to the floor. I am thankful this beautiful gift has lasted so long with new people still coming May God be praised!
Joy Moore
I have so many memories of the Living Christmas Tree. This will be my 38th year singing on the Tree, and I had the pleasure of being the co-coordinator for four years before stepping down to go back to work full time The Living Christmas Tree has always been a large part of my family’s Christmas celebration. I was the first “great with child” person to sing on the Tree when expecting our first (she was born a month later) I told Mr Pryor (Mr LCT) that I needed to be near the bottom of the tree and on the end. He laughed a little bit and said quietly “I try to reserve that for the larger folks” to which I replied “Oh, trust me, by December I will be large.” Thankfully, by the time I was expecting our third, we had added the shrubs Also, I have always practiced a lot in my car, so my children learned most of the songs with me. One year when they were still very young, my husband brought them to a performance. They sat quietly until the Hallelujah Chorus when they just had to join in with the choir A friend sitting nearby told me later that she loved their enthusiasm and was impressed they knew the song so well. I explained they were a captive audience most of the time and we sang it every year Years later, they joined me on the Tree. My son played in the orchestra one year, and he along with my husband have also helped with parking. My younger daughter came home from college a few times and sang on the Tree Living away she no longer sings but she arranges her work schedule such that she can come home the week of the Tree and help behind the scenes. You may see her helping with tickets, moving boxes or running errands. My oldest child sings beside me. She suffered a severe brain injury in a car wreck almost 20 years ago and originally the doctors were not sure she would ever walk or talk again. This will be her 15th year on the Tree, and she memorizes the songs more easily than I do One of my favorites has become the Hallelujah Chorus Adding it up, I have sung it from the Tree around 240 times. It still moves me, and occasionally I see someone who is truly touched by the music. One young man who has some challenges has attended several times over the years and he cannot contain his joy when we start singing it The most touching time to me, though, happened several years ago when we had an interpreter signing the words to our songs so that hard of hearing guests could enjoy the performance. When we started singing the Hallelujah Chorus, one of the guests jumped up and signed along with the interpreter. The look of joy on his face made my tiredness evaporate and made me grateful for the opportunity to share God’s love in such a unique way - LeAnne Fowler
1994 1995 1996
The Anderson family has been involved with the LCT since we moved to Huntsville over 35 years ago. All four of us have sung on the tree if you count my oldest daughter, Lauren, when I was pregnant with her I remember that year because the theme was about bells and there were several lengthy monologues where we had to stand for a while My back would start to hurt, so Debi Wooten, who was expecting Blair, and I would sneak over and sit on the stairs on the side of the tree so that we could rest. Another wonderful memory is watching my daughters dance in the LCT production. We have had several dance groups and soloists over the years. This year, we are singing ‘This Christmastide’ and I’ll never forget watching Lauren gracefully leaping across the front of the sanctuary several years ago when she was a featured dancer for that song. I literally had a birdseye view because I was at the top of the tree for a few nights It was a feeling that I will never forget My favorite recent memory has been singing beside my younger daughter, Amanda. She has been a soloist for the past several years and it has been so much fun sharing this experience with her. The Living Christmas Tree will always be a unique and special ministry event for our family I hope and pray we will continue to be a part of it for many years. - Karen Anderson
1994: Billy Orton - guest director
"The Very Best Time of Year,” 10th Anniversary of the LCT (1993), is when I became a part of the LCT choir My husband, Bob, and our son, Ken, had been in several of the earlier years. LCT is a favorite family event! The first time ballet was used in the LCT was in 1995, the 12th year of the tree. Our daughter, Shannon, was asked to do ballet to two songs, one of them being "This Christmastide” She received many favorable comments, one stating she was so transparent the message of Christ shown through clearly. For the 20th Anniversary (2004), Shannon did ballet to "This Christmastide" and "Away in a Manger/Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne” In 2012, "Star of Wonder,” Shannon did ballet to "sure on this Shining Night,” and "Arise Your Light Has Come.” At the children's tree Sunday afternoon, the children were invited to come to the front and dance with her What joy to see little children dance to "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem" with her. Ballet groups have been used since 1995 at the LCT. People still tell me how meaningful that is. What a blessing! - Ann Smith
1995: ballet added
One of my favorite things every year is during rehearsal. It never fails that, at some point, I will have a certain feeling come over me, where the music makes me almost feel the darkness and coolness of the sanctuary. It always makes me appreciate the journey that the choir takes from learning notes, words and rhythms, changing it into our mission of sharing God's wonderful news from atop the tree. Another memory is of dear ones that are no longer with us For years my father and father-in-law served as a parker and usher, respectively. My father would dress in his warmest clothes, put on a Santa hat, and wear a pair of plastic Groucho Marx glasses with the mustache He tried to turn parking into something fun for all who saw him. My father-in-law took his ushering job very seriously. I remember walking in the Narthex, where he would give me a quiet word of encouragement and a smile before entering the Sanctuary before every performance. They have been gone for 10 years, but their memories are alive and well Another memory is the joy of singing with my mother and my daughter on the tree. Most years I get to stand by my daughter and look down on my mother in the shrubs. This makes me grateful for the time we spend together in this ministry, where I can envision singing in a heavenly choir with those so dear to me. - Jennifer Matthews
1997 1998 1999
1998: Billy Orton’s first year
Click here for a transcript of Billy’s LCT memories.
My father died suddenly on December 12, 1984 When I returned to Huntsville from Mississippi, my neighbor, who was also a member of FBC, insisted that I go with her to the Saturday night presentation of The Living Christmas Tree I really had no desire to go but went at her insistence. I remember we sat in the last row in the balcony. The music was beautiful, but it was not until the Hallelujah Chorus, with the lights and the beauty of the music and words made me think that this must be what heaven and a heavenly choir is like, and I knew my father was in a better place. A peace came over me, and it was truly the beginning of a healing process for me that I have not forgotten. - Liz Newcomb
2000 0 2002 2003
I first started coming to the Christmas tree program in 2015 and have been every year since with my family and friends Each year it was such a blessing and I would tell my wife I was going to sing on the tree, but after last year’s program (which I think was the best and a motivator) I decided to become a participant singer. I contacted Will Weir who goes to church at First Baptist and got the information needed to sign up and attend practices It has really been a blessing getting to know some of the choir as well as the music director, Aaron, and my learning curve on music has increased substantially. I plan, Lord willing, to be a participant each year I am able from now on - Heath Emerson
Len and I were blessed to sing in the LCT from 1990 until our health kept us from participating The thing I remember about the Tree was that it helped me to get into the Spirit of Christmas. Singing with all of those wonderful people filled me with feelings of comfort and excitement about celebrating Jesus' birth The one that meant so much to me was the 1991 LCT because my mother was very ill and she was able to come in a wheelchair to the Sunday night performance. She was so excited about it. She passed away in my arms three days after the Tree Every year when I was able to sing, I would search the auditorium for someone in a wheelchair and sing for them. I miss being a part of the choir but feel so blessed to have sung on it for so many years - 23 years - Kennie Worlund
20 04 20th Anniversary
Jerry Nelson and I were assigned as ushers in the balcony for the very first Living Christmas Tree performance We were at the entrance to the balcony at the top of the stairs when the doors were opened and we heard folks climbing the stairs Prepared to start passing out programs, we were not quite prepared for what happened next. The first people we saw were a lady and a young boy. I would guess him at about
six years old She had him by the arm with his hand sticking straight up. When they cleared the stairs and turned to enter the sanctuary the boy jerked his arm loose from his mom’s grasp and squared around and announced “Huh! Two guards (ushers) and 44 steps.” Mom got another grip and entered the sanctuary at which point he jerked his arm loose again squared around for a full view of the tree and announced “Wow that’s a big ‘un.” Mom got another grip on his arm and went to find the first two seats occupied in the balcony for the inaugural Living Christmas Tree performance I have wondered what happened to them ever since, and I did count the number of steps to the balcony and sure enough there are 44! - Paul Nelson
I was a member of the sanctuary choir for many years and sang on the Living Christmas Tree from the beginning until 2003 when I began having health problems that affected my voice. There was something special about every presentation, but I want to share some memories of the LCT 2001, "Tis love that's born tonight” It also could have been named "Christmas around the world" because we sang so many songs from around the world.
We had several very good foreign language teachers in the choir who helped with pronunciation. One special song in English was "God So Loved the World.” Billy called me to discuss an idea he had He wanted to involve some of the students in our English classes that met on Thursday mornings at FBC. I suggested having them dress in their native attire and read John 3:16 in their language before the choir sang "God So Loved the World.” All the internationals I asked were believers, and some were members of our church China, Kazakhstan, Korea, Japan, Mexico, France, Colombia, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Yemen were all represented on the tree.
The first night, the young lady from Yemen walked down the hall on her way to take her children to the nursery while people were coming in for the program. Her veil and the rest of her attire caught their attention How rare to see and hear a convert from the Muslim faith participate in a Christian service and read John 3:16 in Arabic.
One of the Korean students asked if her daughter could stand with her and sing. At the appointed time she came on the stage with her little girl, both dressed in their Korean outfits. After she read, her daughter took the microphone; Nothing silence Billy knelt down and spoke to the little girl. Then the sweetest most angelic voice sang out, "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so” When she finished singing, there wasn't a dry eye anywhere and the choir had a most difficult time singing "God So Loved the World" after her.
I think that program spoke of what we had always wanted to convey in the LCT that "Love
My son Thomas and I have only seen one Living Christmas Tree presentation. It was 2006 and that year the theme was “What Shall We Bring?” The musical worship touched both of our hearts so much that at the end of the presentation we committed to become singers for the next Living Christmas Tree In 2007, for “A Storybook Christmas,” Thomas and I became part of the Living Christmas Tree story. For 2024, this 40th Living Christmas Tree, “His Story and Ours” we continue to fill our hearts with the Love and Joy of Our Lord and Savior. - Rosemary Wolfe
2005 2006 2007
2011: The Learning Channel recognizes the LCT on its nationwide broadcast titled “Extreme Christmas Trees.”
I have sung in the Living Christmas tree for 31 years For several years my dear friend, Kelley and I stood next to each other on the Tree, and, needless to say, we had a lot of fun! Because an LCT singer stands throughout the performance, your feet can get tired and begin to swell I never hesitated to slip off my shoes if my feet hurt, but Kelley was always afraid that if she did, her shoe would be the one to fall through the rafters and make a lot of noise on the way down On Saturday and Sunday of the performance week, we have two performances with a meal in between. One Saturday, while we were on the Tree for the first show of the day, Kelley kept complaining that her feet hurt, so I convinced her to slip her shoes off and just put them beside her I had done it a million times and never had a problem! Later, after we sang the Hallelujah Chorus (our last song), Kelley’s shoes were still where she put them. When she was distracted I decided it would be funny to take one of her shoes and slip it my back pocket, and let her think it fell down in the rafters When it was time for us to disembark the Tree, Kelley looked down and saw only one shoe. She had a look of panic on her face, and of course, I gave her my best panic face as well After looking all around, she realized she would have to go to the fellowship hall to eat with only one shoe on. I followed her down and then slipped in the robing room and put her shoe in my music slot, intending to carry on the charade for a little while She spent the entire meal embarrassed and telling every one how she couldn’t believe the one time she takes her shoes off, that she lost one to the rafter! Because of the construction and all the electric cords, etc. under the tree, we were always told that if anything falls, we will have to wait until they de-construct the tree to retrieve it. As we headed back to the choir room to begin lining up, I went to my music slot to get Kelley’s shoe and surprise her When I got there, I was the one surprised, because it was gone! Of course, I thought she figured it out and got it herself. But when I told her about my joke (which she did not think was very funny), I realized she had no clue as to the whereabouts of her shoe! As it turns out, another one of our sopranos, stealthy Martha Jones, was watching my escapades the whole time and decided to play a joke on the jokester! She gave Kelley her shoe, and I realized the joke was really on me. - Beth Bice
2008
My friends sometime ask me why I sing on the LCT every year. I was sitting in the fellowship hall with the rest of the choir, preparing to sing the final performance. Billy Orton was telling us how good the choir sounded, it might be the best tree we’ve ever had (he says that every year) and encouraging us to make plans to do this again next year. I am thinking I need a break, maybe I’ll skip next year. Then a guest walked in and asked if he could speak to the choir He began telling us that a few years ago he met a young woman and invited her to go see this thing he’d heard about called a Living Christmas Tree. They thought it was wonderful and it was a magical night for them They fell in love and married and made a tradition of coming every year to hear the LCT. He continued sharing that his wife got cancer and was too weak to make it to the tree as usual, and she encouraged him to go without her. He wouldn’t hear of it so he wrapped her in a quilt and carried her to the LCT for the last time. The next Christmas he was so lonesome and missed her so much that he couldn’t bear to come alone. Christmas just wasn’t the same. This year, his Sunday School class got tickets for all of them and they had accompanied him that night He continued with a deliberate voice, “I just want to tell you that what you do matters. It matters a lot”. He turned and walked away. Silence Swallowing hard and wiping away tears, we began asking, “Who was he?” We didn’t even ask his name. I’m pretty sure many of us sang our hearts out that night. I heard you, Lord. Sign me up for next year. - Bertie Bramm
2009: Named Best Holiday Event
by The Huntsville Times
As a singer on the Living Christmas Tree, I always found the most difficulty in memorizing the words to the songs, ESPECIALLY if it was in a foreign language. One year, I had the bright idea to type the words on my cell phone to help me remember Of course, we were warned NOT to take our phones on the Tree , but I have never been a devout rule follower. My entire family came to the first performance that season When it was over, I could not wait to find them and see how they liked the music. They were always so complimentary My grown children rushed up to me with “MOM!! What were you thinking?!? Were you looking at your cell phone?!? Your face was the only one illuminated during a couple of the songs!!“ Somehow, sweet Billy Orton never called me out on it, but I have never been so embarrassed! - Beth Bice
25th Anniversary
I saw my first Living Christmas Tree in December of 1985. I was a newlywed from the midwest and visiting in Alabama for the holidays Little did I realize as I sat in the audience freezing. . .scooting a little bit closer to ward off frost bite, that I would have nearly 40 years of experiences with this Living Christmas Tree. A few years later, I was on staff in the Music Ministry and the LCT preparation and presentations became one of my favorite seasons! Syble Noblin, had the gift to encourage and mentor. She made sure that every singer had a spot on the tree and worked very closely with Mr Pryor Later, Kimberly Collette created a computer program that made the work of placement and line up for the singers so much easier. . .and so much more efficient! - Laura Roberts
On the first dress rehearsal, an older gentleman found he couldn’t get on the Tree with music, so he laid his music down on one of the stage lights. We could smell something burning, but we couldn’t see where it was coming from. The music didn’t catch fire, but it did char to a black mess, and scared everyone on the Tree! Bill Stone came up with a procedure to alert the Director of a fire problem and unload the Tree safely. He also put a fire extinguisher at the end of every other row in case a fire does start, but we have never had a problem on the Tree itself - Gerald Roberts
Friday, December 11, 1992, I was looking forward to my husband, Joe Wilson, coming home late in the day He had been in the DC area several weeks working on a proposal At 10am, I received the death message from his boss. Joe had not shown up for work that morning. Always prompt, his co-workers checked on him. They found him lifeless in his bed, no apparent struggle. He had suffered a major heart attack that ushered him into eternity at the age of 55 Needless to say, our world was turned upside down, but much has to be done! Boeing had his body returned to Huntsville. Police were involved; so it would not arrive in Huntsville until 5pm on Sunday. It was a very painful, anxious time for me and my family - the dread of seeing his lifeless body in a casket, the purchase of a burial plot, participants in the funeral, pall bearers, composition of his obituary, schedule for visitation and funeral, welcoming our family and friends from out of state, multiple decisions and actions! Joe did not sing, but he loved music and he loved the Lord. Every year he was noted for giving out dozens of Tree tickets at work and wherever he was Sunday morning when everything was done that I could do, I decided I would like to attend the 5pm Tree and take out of town people with me. The schedule was very tight: body arrive at 5pm, visitation at 7pm Sunday night; funeral at 11am Monday so working people could attend at lunch. Sara West, one of our deacon friends, was visiting and I expressed that desire to her She said she would see if she could arrange it and she did We had easy parking, a pew filled with family and out-of-state friends, a quick exit to Laughlin for the visitation and found the body had arrived on time. It was so calming for me to have the hope and peace of the beautiful Christmas music wash over my concern for the tight schedule, my shock at the upheaval in my life, and my questions for the future We wanted to have the funeral in the sanctuary, but Monday was usually the day The Tree was taken down. Somehow we were allowed to have the Tree up (the only one I know of). The faithful volunteers waited to take the Tree down I should have a picture, but none of us were together enough to take one! The next year, my daughter, Lisa, and I sang in the tree in honor of Joe and of our God. We were rehearsing on the 11th, the first anniversary of his death, thankful God had walked beside our family that year. Several times the 11th has fallen in the middle of the Tree. Whatever your status in life is today, I pray you will find peace, comfort, healing and perhaps new life in the redemptive words of the Tree music and message - Fran Wilson
Christmas 2014 was to be our 40th Christmas together, but due to cancer my sweet wife, Babs had stepped into eternity earlier that year She had been active in local and statewide mission activities her whole life and, though we were members at another church, could not pass up the opportunities to serve with the people of First Baptist who led many projects such as the Christian Women’s Job Corps and English as a Second Language. When she passed away, she left many dear friends at FBC, including fellow CWJC Board Member, Anne Stone, who participated in her Celebration Service.
2010 2011
In early September, I received a call from Bill Stone, Anne’s husband. Bill called to invite me to sing on the Living Christmas Tree, the holiday spectacle Babs and I had attended every year since the late 80’s. My life was still rather disoriented without Babs so I declined. Those who knew Bill will understand when I say Bill would not take no for an answer. He wore me down on the phone until I agreed I believe Bill and Anne knew that at that point I needed something meaningful and inspiring to pull me along as I adjusted to a different life.
Well, I had not sung such demanding pieces since my university choir days, but I stayed with it. As time went on, the exceptionally talented accompanist caught my eye. I thought she would probably be someone I would want to know, but in that state of mind I had little confidence in such matters Because this was the 30th anniversary of the Tree, each night featured a different group from the past 29 years and thus she was overwhelmed with rehearsals and our paths never really crossed With all that was going on, she was clueless that someone in the choir might be interested in her.
Now, the LCT custom at that time was to hold a drawing to select the person from all the participants who would conduct the Hallelujah Chorus at the Children’s Tree. For reasons unknown to me, Anne and others such as Charlotte Davis and Chuck Rosecrans conspired to stuff the ballot box so that my name would be chosen. And sure enough, I was thrilled when my name was called out because I loved Handel’s Messiah and had played the Hallelujah Chorus for my one (and only) piano recital as a teenager. And yes, I would be able to meet this delightful organist.
Directing the LCT Choir and Orchestra in the Hallelujah Chorus blessed me more than anyone could know, especially at that moment in my life. However, because of the busyness of the day, I was unable to make a connection with the organist, and left the parking lot that Sunday night a little sad It’s difficult to understand, but in such a frame of mind at that time, I couldn’t go forward.
However, the following morning I arrived at UAH before 6am, as I usually did, to begin the day To my utter amazement there was a 42-word email from said organist, Sherry Upshaw, thanking me for directing the Hallelujah Chorus with some measure of competence (I had minored in choral conducting). That was all it took for God to weave our lives together. I followed up with a 1,500-word email response (one of several to come), and our conversation began. So, to make a long story short, I sang on the Tree and eventually married the organist Hallelujah! -John and Sherry Christy
I’ve sung in every LCT since my family moved from Upstate New York in June, 2009, except for 2010. Advent started off that year with all the regular Christmas joy in the air. About a week before the start of LCT, I received a phone call from my brother in Singapore, telling me that my father was critically ill in the hospital, my mom was sobbing in the background The next morning I booked a flight to Singapore for the next day, hurriedly packed my bag and attended to the evening children’s choir rehearsal. A thousand thoughts filled my brain as I boarded the plane to leave Huntsville Myrna Boyd and Jennifer Willoughby texted me and I was comforted by their words. As I was in the plane taking off from Fort Worth, I started crying, what if I couldn’t see my father one last time? I was seated at the very back of the plane where nobody could see me or hear me sobbing. I started reviewing the songs I had memorized. The songs settled me down.
When I went to see my father in the hospital, he was recovering from a catastrophic hemorrhage He was actually surprised to see me there but I could see he was overjoyed, so was I. He suffered two more bouts of massive hemorrhage in the next two weeks Each time it happened, I prayed so hard to God to not let him die before he could hear the Good News of salvation. Before he went in for surgery to locate the bleeding I told him he need not worry because the churches in Huntsville, Canandaigua NY, Singapore, and my good Christian friends all over the US were praying for him. Later his kidneys were failing. He needed dialysis which was a risky procedure for a hemorrhaging person. He survived through it. The bleeding was from an aneurysm that had developed in an entanglement of fine blood vessels leading from the liver to a duodenal ulcer A complex surgery was needed to remove the aneurysm and the ulcer by removing the whole section of the duodenum He survived through it Because he had stayed in the ICU for more than a month, he developed a resistant-bacterial pneumonia and had to be aggressively treated for it. If not for all the prayers lifted up, he would not have survived through all the risky procedures and be left physically and mentally intact I felt emotionally supported by caring people in FBC like Tara DuBose-Schmitt who saw to the emotional needs of my then 12-year-old daughter.
I didn’t grow up in a Christian home. I knew I would be too emotional in the hospital to share the Good News with my father. I prayed to God, please send someone to share the Good News. I tried to “help” God by thinking of any Christian friends I know: a converted cousin, a pastor from my church in Singapore, an itinerant chaplain friend, an elder from my father’s friend’s church, etc. None of them was appropriate. Instead God had sent His most appropriate servant whom I’d never thought of - Pastor Esther Tay - because she could share the gospel in Mandarin with my father who was Chinese-educated. All these other Christian friends were English-educated. And my father accepted the Lord! Hallelujah! My father passed away in May 2011 My mother, who is not a Christian, decided on a Christian funeral service for him instead of a traditional Chinese funeral rite into the afterlife. That Christmas season was a season of miracles. - Kwai-Weng Brethren
30th Anniversary 20 14
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever
The first year, we could not imagine what the LCT would be. .A report was presented but not approved because of the cost The committee had recommended that we never charge for attendance.
But then Mr. Tom Pryor became involved, and the story begins. The first LCT was ready in 1984 You cannot imagine details of the construction, decorating, and getting more than 100 singers on the first tree Jane Holloway was the singer who climbed 39 feet to the top "star.” We walked over "boxes" that were individually sized to each singer. We had to learn the trick of moving boxes d not leaning on the decorated hot lights and greenery - but we re prepared by Joel Duncan and committee! There was citement! The minute the lights came on, the audience has ooo's d ahs! Sometimes we have too may "moving with the music" gers that have to be calmed down! Too much excitement makes bulence for the top singers! ( I was on the first row, thank odness! Now I'm the Shrubs and Shrubettes!) The "Children's" ee (a 30 min program, just for kids) was added just for the allest friends It is so much fun to see the children dance, laugh, d talk while we sing! I remember when I worked as church ceptionist (for 13 years, 2000-2012) individuals from all over North abama would start calling for information and tickets - in the mmer! Calls would come in before we even began rehearsals. is was before emails and Facebook, etc) Eventually, the lights re exchanged to cooler LED lights. We had to learn not to drop ything on the rotating lights on the bottom level. (We had a moldering" light the first year which led to the addition of fire ls.) Betty Patterson and Janet Crawford led a group that made e first white capes for each singer - Joyce Zackie
I have always been part of the Living Christmas Tree. I was 13 when the Living Christmas Tree came alive for the first time. I remember bringing refreshments to the builders and decorators, helping' my mom hand out tickets, watching Tom Pryor go here and there with a pencil behind his ear and a smile on his face, and decorating. It was in those early years that I began to dream of playing in the orchestra one day.
I performed for the first time in 1996 as a member of the choir and in 1997 my dreams came true when I performed in the LCT orchestra for the first time I’m a regular, except for the Christmas of 2007. In many ways, that was the most memorable performance ever. That was the year that I participated from the audience and not the orchestra. That year, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, I was shopping at Parkway Place Mall As I was walking back to my car in the parking garage, I was struck from behind and run over by a Chevy Tahoe.
Life is truly a miracle, and each day is a gift from God. In His providence, God had led me to Bible Study Fellowship in the years prior to the accident, and He had come alive to me through the study of His Word I knew in my heart that He was sovereign over the whole event, that He had never left my side, that He had protected me, and that my story would be used for His glory!
That year, as my husband, Charles, and I sat in the LCT audience, I was totally absorbed. It was so joyous to just be able to be there! And then it happened. We had just sat down it seemed, and already the choir had begun to sing the Hallelujah Chorus It was as if the choir had an extra member. Jesus seemed to be singing to me from all over the tree. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and He shall reign forever and ever! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Jesus was born!
It was intensely personal and spectacular all at the same time. Our God is so good and faithful. And He has so much more for us than we can ever imagine! Ever since then, I have never again considered the tree as just something I do at Christmas with my family or my church. It is His ministry It’s something that He does through our church, and it is a way for His glory to shine brightly and to reach those who desperately need it as I did that year! My story is all wrapped up in His story. - Emily DePlachett
My connection to The Living Christmas Tree began with attending when we visited Huntsville during the holidays prior to our move here in 1988. My memories of the tree involved putting on greenery, lights, and bows and lots of time listening to the music to learn the words One of the vivid memories of all tree performances was the year we sang songs from many other countries and languages Flags from many nations stood around the walls and students from our ESL classes shared their stories. One evening a young woman came with her very young child. She spoke from her heart of the blessings she had received and said, "This is my greatest gift from God my child" In the innocent voice of a child, they sang "Jesus Loves Me" The choir's next selection was "God so Loved the World." My heart was full that night. His story is a clear message of hope that is the culmination of each performance when we rise to sing "The Hallelujah Chorus" And He shall reign forever and ever Hallelujah! - MaryAnn Moon
2016: large tree lights replaced with LEDs
parking lot for LCT So many people come
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One year I was fanning someone forward to a wn the window He had been fanned in from a parking space, but he wasn't here for the he right lane and got captured. He was good me quick directions and moving some traffic cones he was on his way to his intended destination. I learned that day that not everyone is coming to the Tree, but when you are parking at the peak time it sure does feel like it. Seriously, It seems that each year working the parking lot is when I say Merry Christmas for the first time People are eager to hear the greeting as they walk in from their cars and to return the sentiment with a holiday smile on their faces. I try to remember when I'm working as a Parker that I'm often the first FBC person these folks are going to meet as they come to LCT. So we try to make a good first impression Merry Christmas
- Scott Whetzel
201
7
It was a challenging season of life Yet, I was excited to start rehearsals for the 29th Living Christmas Tree. Soon after rehearsals started, my son was injured playing baseball and needed surgery, and I was diagnosed with a medical condition that also needed surgery. Facing two surgeries, medical bills, and household duties, I was concerned how the bills would be paid and how it would all get done. I said to myself, if the household and medical bills get out of hand and I need help, I have my dad. I can lean on him, and I know he will be there: he is the rock I can lean on to help me All will be well My daughter had been helping with a lot of the household tasks, cooking, cleaning, laundry and more. My son had surgery on a Friday. I had surgery on the following Tuesday The next day, unexpectedly, my dad died I felt like my rock, my stability, my foundation was pulled out from under me! After the shock wore off and the funeral in New England was past us, I resumed rehearsing for the LCT. My first time back, someone in choir said to me “I can’t believe you are here! You are stronger than I would be during a time of loss” My reply was that I needed to be there. For during this time I heard God say, ‘I am here, I am your foundation, you have me, your Father, to lean on! Jesus is your Rock!’ This challenging time made me look to God the Father like never before and lean on God’s promise of never leaving or forsaking us! What better way to spend a time of mourning and healing than in the Father’s arms while signing praises to Jesus!
- Beth Hoffman
2019: 4,000 new lights added to the tree
I have many wonderful memories of our Living Christmas Tree, especially the first five years. In 1984, my husband, John, began serving as Minister of Students at First Baptist Huntsville How excited we all were about this new ministry of “The Tree!” As that first tree was constructed, Tom Pryor asked if I would be willing and able to climb up to the top under the star to stand there during the presentation I said I would try and tentatively climbed up as he watched, both of us a bit unsure that I could meet his expectation. I continued to fill that spot for the next five years, huffing and puffing a little more each year Anne Stone and Susan Vines McClung stood just below me. We enjoyed our little “morse code” pokes and taps throughout the many presentations. The air was thin, and the temp was hot, but the experience was exhilarating and meaningful as we sang the songs of the season and presented the Gospel To give tribute to our incredibly committed and dedicated choir……in 1988, we were able to continue with our Living Christmas Tree offering to the community and region, though we had no minister of music Many questioned the wisdom or ability of carrying out this major task. Dr. Bill Stone, a long-time member of the choir, along with other choir leaders, came to the interim music committee, church leadership, and staff and convinced them that with our music associate and lay choir leadership, it could be done. It was my great honor and thrill to prepare the choir as Mike Dell, Music Associate prepared the orchestra and directed each presentation. The choir, orchestra and tech team rallied, presenting a beautiful and powerful worship experience - Jane Holloway
2018
A Tree For the Children
In 2015 “A Tree for the Children” presentation was moved from Sunday afternoon to Saturday morning, and a pancake breakfast hosted by the young adult ministry was held prior to the 10am presentation.
The tree is a joyous experience for the choir. As we climb the steps to load the tree all the hours of rehearsal, memorizing notes, words, proper vowels, are worth it all as the lights of ces of an excited audience, a oneness of worship is felt in 1984 and have been blessed by being a part of 34 of mine was the year of 2017 The children's choir of my grandson portrayed Joseph. The children's tree on he children dance, clap, and sing along to favorite carols.
- Ellen Bailes
During the 2000 LCT, my husband B were asked if our 7-month-old son presentation for the children Surprise would often get a pager buzz requesti
We asked if they were SURE they w while playing the role of Jesus. We were assured that Noah would be in good hands. Indeed, it was so sweet to see teenage Amy Seanor as" Mary," holding Noah as the choir and congregation sang "Happy Birthday, Jesus" Noah did just fine and I'll always remember his sweet, alert face, looking out at the congregation and lights.
- Tina Darby
Click here to view a clip of Noah Darby as Baby Jesus in the 2000 Living Christmas Tree
A Tree For the Children
201 9 20
Billie and I saw our first Living Christmas Tree performance while we were living in Scottsboro, AL, where we attended and sang in the choir at First Baptist Church, Scottsboro, where our pastor was Allen Walworth. We decided to move to Huntsville in July 1991 and started looking for a church home. One of our primary churches to consider was FBC Huntsville, who had called Allen Walworth as pastor a few years earlier We visited on a Sunday morning and were invited to come to a Wednesday night supper and service. When we arrived Allen insisted we join his table, which included Harry Wooten, the Minister of Music It just so happened that night was the kickoff for the LCT rehearsal, so they strongly invited us to come to the kick-off. We did, and wound up coming down from the choir loft a couple of weeks later to join FBC Huntsville. We have participated in each LCT since then except a couple in the late 90’s while dealing with parent health issues. Every year I think of the 1993 LCT theme, “The Very Best Time of the Year,” as I participate in our gift of the LCT to the Huntsville community. - Ed Perkins
2022: Christmases past, present and future were represented by three music ministry worship leaders, Billy Orton, David Ragsdale and Aaron Jackson
Amy and I first sang on the tree in December, 1987, and we’ve sung on most of the trees since then. We were married on December 17, 1983, which means we’ve spent many of our wedding anniversaries on the tree, typically without much fanfare I did surprise her one year (possibly 2005) with a cake for her and all of the tree performers during the meal break between the Saturday performances. A little sugar boost definitely helps getting through the second performance on Saturday evening - Dave McKenzie
2007 was my first year seeing the tree, and I was amazed by the lights, the music, and the amazing message to the community. Seventeen years later, I've had the privilege to play in the LCT orchestra and work on putting lights on the tree, and I'm still amazed at each and every performance - Michelle Kirk
2023: Aaron Jackson’s first year as director
First Baptist Church became my church when I walked in 15 years ago. When I joined, they asked me how I would like to serve and I told them I had always ushered, so they made sure I met Clifton Sisco, who coordinates the ushers. The surprise side of this was we ushered for the Living Christmas Tree. It is wonderful to stand at the doors and greet those that have come to see the Tree
2021
My cousin, Dennis E O’Dell, also asked me to attend his Sunday School Class That is when this love story began. Little did I know, he had also asked my future husband to come to his class as well. He had not been in a class for some time as he worshipped at home with his wife who was having health problems, and who he eventually lost to cancer We met in that class and got to know each other through our mutual love of dogs.
When it was announced the tickets were going to be available, he stopped me and told me he knew I ushered for the Tree but would I like him to get two tickets so we could sit together when I got to see the performance I got really nervous because I had not had a date in a number of years and I wasn’t sure exactly if this was a date or not. We had also discovered during that year that we had mutual friends at my old church. Sounded like a good reason to ask them to join us, and I thought of another couple we both knew I was satisfied, “I” had made it a community date
2022 2023
As I approached the Sanctuary, Jim was waiting for me to give me my ticket Now, we always have a number of “retired” ushers that will come on board to help out during the Tree. This particular night, Randy Bounds, was on duty and I really did not know him well. He looked at Jim as he was holding out my ticket and he said, “If you give her a kiss, maybe she will let you in early” I took my ticket and scooted past everybody to get to my door. When that time came where I could sit down with my friends, I sat right next to him and he held the hymnal while we sang After the marvelous performance, we stopped for dessert and coffee. I told him I was going to be gone for a couple of weeks because they had put my dad in the hospital. When I returned, he called every night to talk Somewhere around March he wanted to take me to see my dad He had an ulterior motive which he did not spring on me until we had gotten there. He wanted to ask my dad for my hand in marriage. We married June 23, 2013.
We sit in the same seats we sat in that first time every year to celebrate the anniversary of our first date One year, Travis Collins stopped to speak to us as he walked through the sanctuary. I told him it was the 10th anniversary of our first date. In his introduction to the audience, he told everyone that special things happen in that room during The Living Christmas Tree and began to tell about our first date That’s not the end of our love story and my now husband also volunteers to help as an usher during the Tree. - Gail Preston
The Years without a Living Christmas Tree 19 97
The 1997 Sanctuary Renovation made it impossible to build the Living Christmas Tree structure. A Christmas concert, “One Star, One Song, One Son,” was instead presented in the Fellowship Hall. It was conducted by Dick Torrans, Interim Music Director, and featured Carol McClure on the harp.
Again, in 2020 the Covid19 Pandemic precluded the large gatherings that were necessary to practice, prepare and perform The Living Christmas Tree. Instead, the singers and musicians recorded their parts individually at home, or in small groups at the church, and the results were merged into a video presentation shared with the community.
Going to The Living Christmas Tree together became our family tradition. One of my favorite things to do is buy my children and grandchildren a Living Christmas Tree t-shirt so they can all look alike and get a family picture every year. I now have a picture of 18 years worth of their growing up. My kids and their kids filled a pew, usually as close as they could get to the stage. They came in their coats and covered up with their own blankets, back in the day when we had the big antique lights on the tree and we had to keep the sanctuary so cold. Now we have new LED ones. They are beautiful, but not quite the same.
Some years we had a big disco ball hanging from the tall ceiling, spreading starlight all over the sanctuary. When I asked my family what their favorite part of the Christmas Tree was, thinking maybe they might pick one of my favorite songs that I loved to sing as a choir member, one of the younger grandchildren's answers was "The Disco Ball," not a song.
Singing on the Christmas Tree is the most awesome, inspiring, and moving thing. It is a lot of work, and has to be done completely from memory, but worth every bit of it. Sometimes I just cry when I'm singing and thinking of the people listening, especially when I know my family has come and are in the audience. My saddest tree was the year my oldest daughter had died a few months before and was not there. I was also sad my youngest, my son, had long passed and had never seen the Tree. But I am still doing it with love, anticipation, and expecting to feel my usual blessings from it this, my 18th year. With our present director we carry on our Gift to the City. I remember when we did the 25th year and the sanctuary was filled with silver trees everywhere. We still have a few people in the choir who have sung on the Tree every year since it began 40 years ago.
During Covid in 2020, we could not have The Living Christmas Tree in person. The choir members did a lot of recording, in the church and at home. It was especially hard recording my part alone at home. That was an experience. My family still traveled to my house and watched the Living Christmas Tree on television. - Patti Lindow
Click here to view the 2020 presentation, “Glory Revealed”
The
Years without a Living Christmas Tree
20 24 40th Anniversary
His&Story Ours
This is my first time participating in the Living Christmas Tree I moved to the Huntsville area in 2002 and attended a different church for years. Although I knew that community members were welcome to participate, I never did because I was involved with my own church. I have since changed careers, and with that change came moving away and moving back again in less than three years I joined FBC HSV right away after moving back earlier this year and although I wanted to join the choir, I did not because I knew that I would be moving again (permanently this time) and that it was not the right time for me to fully immerse myself in church choir. But, I decided to participate and unknowingly obligated myself to memorizing the words to lots of songs! I found this out about three practices in! All joking aside, I have always been a choir member at the churches that I have belonged to and this was a good way for me to slowly make the transition back after my hiatus. I have really enjoyed the practices and the music and I am looking forward to participating in all of the presentations! - Stephanie Davis
View from the top of the tree.
40th Anniversary
I love LCT, The Living Christmas Tree. We breathe life into the tree on the first Sunday of December Some think it's only alive when singers climb onto it for one very long weekend of presentations, but approximately 50 steel workers know different. Seeing the tree go up all the way to the star each year begins Christmas for me. What a privilege to erect one of the largest Christmas trees anywhere We are blessed with young and old and all ages in between to work alongside each other on this truly multi-generational project. Once, long ago, I was one of the young, strong ones that eagerly picked up heavy steel Now I'm one of the less strong ones and certainly not young. One day I hope to make it to the Super Senior status when people not only ask me what to do, but I will know what needs to be done We are twice blessed with very willing volunteers It is hard to resist calling out some names for praise. There are so many that serve humbly and happily. I'm certain that mentioning any by name could embarrass people who like to work "behind the scenes” Sometimes we may fuss at each other more than we should under the stress of building. We are humans after all, but grace is good and sufficient especially when shared and remembering that we are all working for the same purpose That is, not only to build a tree, but to share God's Love at Christmas. Each year I look forward expectantly counting down the time month by month until it is time to build. May God Bless us with the privilege to build once again May God Bless us with another safe build and worshipful presentation
- Scott Whetzel
