The Sumter Item
Serving Sumter Since 1894
Vol. 42, Issue 53
December 25, 1898
EXTRA! EXTRA! The Christmas Story Luke 2:1-20 1. And it was in the those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2. And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria. 3. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; because he was of the house and lineage of David. 5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all
people. 11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 15. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known to us. 16. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had seen as it was told to them.
Inside this
special edition 1898 in review
Daniel F. Barber, Pastor
Prices and Advances
Recipes
Classics and New favorites
Singing Tree History The Exclusive Club
THE 2013 SUMTER
Singing Christmas Tree
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The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
Traditions of Christmas Aldersgate United Methodist
Alice Drive Baptist
Bethel Baptist
Bible Fellowship
Church of The Holy Comforter
Concord Baptist
Crosswell Baptist
First Baptist
Aldersgate United Methodist
Trinity Missionary
Harmony Church
Jehovah Missionary Baptist
Mechanicsville United Methodist
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist
New Start Community Church
Salt Light Church
Seventh Day Adventist
Springbank Baptist
St. Jude Catholic
Stough Memorial
by Dee Mitchum The excitement and wonders of Christmas are all around us, for as the song lyrics claim, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Shoppers have saved money to buy gifts for their loved ones, and they scurry from place to place in search of the perfect ones. Precious children anticipate special treasures from Santa. We celebrate Christmas with certain holiday traditions, some common to our own regions and families and some common to all. Do you ever wonder about the meanings of these customs, if perhaps they were ever significant in some way? As people decorate their homes with evergreen and trim their trees with festive ornaments, they celebrate the true meaning of the holiday. Even the secular world embraces the Christ of Christmas. Many of our Christmas traditions are manifested in the story of love that God shared with us on that first Christmas night in Bethlehem. We celebrate with lights, because Jesus is the Light of the world sent into darkness. We decorate our homes with evergreen wreaths, garlands and trees that represent the everlasting life that Jesus came to give. The wreaths are circular, symbols of eternity. The trees are triangular, signifying the trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We proudly place angels and stars on top of our trees. Angels proclaimed the holy birth with music and singing to shepherds on a hillside. With their staffs (shaped like candy canes) and sheep in tow, they rushed to find the long awaited Messiah. A brilliant star led the wise men from the east, so they could bring their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. They came to adore and worship the promised Child King. God invited the rich and the poor, the far and the near to come. So come all, as we celebrate the Christmas season with traditional red and green. Red is for our Savior’s precious blood, shed for our sins. Green is for the everlasting life He offers us; if only we claim Him as our Savior. Come praise Him in faith, trust, hope and love.
word search
ANGEL CANDY CANE CHILD EVERGREEN FAITH GARLAND GIFTS GIVE
GOLD GREEN HOPE JESUS LIFE LIGHT MESSIAH MONEY
MUSIC PRAISE RED SAVIOR SHOPPER SON STAR STORY OF LOVE
TOY TREE TRUST WISE WONDER WREATH
The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
Singing Christmas tree Exclusive Club by Mary Wayne James First Baptist Church presents its 21st Singing Christmas Tree tonight. With this year’s performance, the community and church celebrate the lives and talents of an elite group of eleven singers, each of whom has participated in every single Tree performance since its inception in 1992. These choir members are bonded together as an exclusive group of people with incredible memories of their time spent together. Affectionately dubbed The Singing Christmas Tree Exclusive Club, these members include: Anita Alexander, Charles Dinkins, Langdon Dinkins, Steve Dinkins, Helen Ellis, Christina Geddings, Diane Mims, Rick Mitchum, Don Morris, Lois Morris, and Macy Terry. Participating in the Singing Christmas Tree creates unforgettable memories for the Exclusive Club members. These recollections include Steve Dinkins’ grandson Asa playing baby Jesus, Helen Ellis’ granddaughter Nikki singing with the children, Langdon Dinkins’ daughter-in-law accepting Christ during a performance, Macy Terry’s daughters singing in the Tree and performing in the interpretive group His Hands, and Diane Mims singing with her grandchildren. Lois Morris recalls watching in awe as all the behind the scenes helpers kept the child performers “happy” and marveling how the “food people” scurried to have meals prepared between the performances. Don Morris, Lois’ husband remembers the hard work constructing each year’s Tree and how it created such a sense of togetherness! He and Paul Gardner got in a lot of quality friend time when they drove a pick-up truck with a trailer to Houston, Texas to pick up materials for the tree expansion. During one Tree, Don Hansen told the choir that the Tree was “as near perfect as it could get!” This accolade stands out in Christina Geddings’ mind. During the first Tree, Charles Dinkins remembers thinking there was “way too much dancing and playing around going on in Big Church.” After he learned that five people made a decision for Christ during that performance, he realized the Tree was not about him and his feelings, but “bringing Christmas and Christ to others.” What motivates the Exclusive Club members to remain faithful to the Tree year after year? Helen Ellis states that “three months of singing Christmas songs” in preparation for the tree is “refreshing.” Helping to erect the steel Tree framework and being a “part of presenting the Gospel to 5000 people each year” motivates Langdon Dinkins. Rick Mitchum also sees the Tree as “an opportunity to serve the Lord and offer the plan of salvation through music and drama.” Anita Alexander says the Tree is “her gift to Him” and Macy Terry agrees that the Tree “makes her Christmas.” Don Morris jokingly claims his wife Lois is his motivator, but then admits they both receive joy from being a part of the Tree. Steve Dinkins, Diane Mims, Christina Geddings and Charles Dinkins all love the music and the chance to reach out to the community for Christ. Several SCT Exclusive Club members shared humorous Tree recollections. Lois and Don Morris’ grandchild (Elise) was thrilled when the choir sang Feliz Navidad. She exclaimed: “They are singing my name!” Don Morris built a
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cover for the organ one year that was, in his words, “strong enough to hold an elephant.” However, it had a little spring to it and cast members and soloists were afraid to stand on it, much less move around on it! Helen Ellis recounts the time her high school friend came to the Tree performance. She had not seen him in 50 years. Making up his own words to a solo did not keep Langdon Dinkins from singing confidently. Tree members were a little nervous, but Don Hansen complimented him on at least making the words rhyme. Not all tree memories are humorous. Some are stressful memories and some sad. A long-winded minister delivering the “invitation” to the audience stands out in Diane Mims’ memory, because it caused the Sunday afternoon Tree to run long and she was anxiously awaiting to hear about the birth of her grandson, Pierce. Charles and Steve Dinkins returned to the fellowship hall during the 1995 Tree to put their red and silver collars up and were greeted by their brother David, who informed them that their brother Robert had just passed away. Charles says his brother “went to heaven while we were singing about Christmas.” Anita Alexander’s son died unexpectedly while she was in a Tree dress rehearsal. The music in the Tree has changed over the years. Diane Mims feels like the selections have more meaning with each successive year. According to Rick Mitchum, the music is more ethnically diverse. Christina Geddings states: “the music is more contemporary and less traditional,” and Don Morris says we are singing with “more of a beat and bang now!” One of the reasons that Steve Dinkins loves the music of each Tree so much is because the directors handpick the selections, rather than use a pre-set format. He believes the directors are “led by the Lord to select the music and compile the program.” Each Tree is unique, but some selections stand out as favorites among the veteran singers: Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, Mary Did You Know?, O Holy Night, All is Well, Happy Birthday, Jesus, One King, Ring Those Bells, and Crown Him. A common thread of devotion, love of God and a desire to share the Gospel with others runs deep in the interviews with the eleven Exclusive Club members. Rick Mitchum sums it up well when he says: “Music knows no boundaries; it transcends all language and cultural barriers. It can create a mood, a feeling and can speak to your heart when words are inadequate, thus making it a powerful medium to teach people.” All SCT Exclusive Club members continue to serve the community this year in the 2013 Tree and serve as an inspiration to the other singers. Once again they will commit to countless hours of practice so that the end result will be a blessing from God and a witness to our community.
Stages of the tree
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The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
What would I do with Jesus? by Debbie Griffin . . . . . . . . . .the answer to this question is so important that it affects eternity. Christmas is only a few days away. There will be gifts to buy, friends to visit and meals to prepare. But more important than all of the Christmas activities is the answer to this question. The answer for some people might be to take the first steps to receive Jesus as their King and Lord of their lives. For me the answer is a rededication of my life to Jesus. I want to serve Him with the compassion of the good Samaritan and the faith of the woman who touched the hem of His robe. I want to serve Jesus with the excitement the shepherds had so long ago as they shared the good news of Jesus with “the whole wide world”. Jesus was born for me and for you! Don’t fail to answer this question. Christmas is a season, but Jesus is eternity. “What would I do with Jesus?” . . . . .My heart says - “I will be your messenger and serve you joyfully.”
WHAT WILL YOU DO
Words and Music by Celeste Clydesdale and David T. Clydesdale
What will you do with Jesus? What will your answer be? Will you receive Him in your heart this Christmas? Will you crown Him as your King? Tell me, what will you do with Jesus? Your answer is the key, Someday your heart, your heart will be asking, What will You do with me? Jesus, what will You do with me?
CROCK POT MACARONI & Cheese 8 oz. macaroni noodles (cooked) 1 1/2 c. milk 1 lg. can evaporated milk 1 lb. (3 c.) cheese (save some for the top) 1 T. mayonnaise (heaping) 3 eggs (beaten) Salt and pepper to taste Mix together mayo, milk, and eggs. Mix in cheese (grated or chunks). Drain noodles and pour into mixture. Put in crock pot; top with cheese. Cook on low for 4 hours. NOTE: You can mix this, refrigerate, and cook the next day if you like. Jeanette Harrison’s Recipe
SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE CHOIR FIRST SOPRANO
Patsy Gammon Debra Gibbs Amelia Gordon Nya Green Deloris Griffith Jane Harley Angela Morris Essie Pearson Racheal Rife Kenyot’a Russell Mary Fran Smith Phyllis Wilkinson Janya Williams Beverly Wright
Anita Alexander Jamie Atkinson Vicky Blackmon Marion Boan Lindy Choice Judith Coonce Robin Cox Kelsie Decker Susan DeMars Jessica DuBose Helen Ellis Joni Feddersen Denise Fenters Christina Geddings Amy Graves Katelyn Gray Lois Haselden Margaret Hill Colleen Kaczmarczyk Nikki Ketchum Lynn Lynn Alyene McGee Diane Mims Dee Mitchum Lois Morris Pat Prince Mary Jane Schultz Kaye Silwonik Joyce Steen Linda Sue Stengel Frances Thomas Mary Ann Walling Juanita Williams Claudine Willis Sharon Steele Young
ALTO
SECOND SOPRANO Linda Alston Betty Baun Melissa Beasley Diane Champion Melissa Coonce Vicky Cox Felicia Furman
Tammie Amick Beth Baker Celeste Baker Debra Barber Mildred Barrineau Debbie Brace Lori Brown Maty Burress Debbie Carroll Rhonda Carter Carie Collins Libby DuBose Beth Fordham Alyssa Gibbs Evola Gilbert Kasey Goodwin Evelyn Harris Maria Haughton Mary Wayne James Mary Meadows Elaine Miller Maragaret Mukooza Brenda Reeves Brenda Wisdom Riley Carol Russell Barbara Scruggs Samantha Smith Macy Terry Caroline Thompson Juanita Thompson
Roberta Vannoy Janie Washington Brandi Watkins Rebecca Wroth
TENOR
Mary Atkinson Ernie Baker Scott Barrineau Stephen Cissom Charles Dinkins Steve Dinkins George Lawson Malcom Major-Wright Don Morris Danell Scott Richard Swinton David Taylor Ralph Walling Johnny Watt
BARITONE
Langdon Dinkins John James Rick Mitchum Fredrick Schmidt
BASS
Felicito Bauza Dean Benenhaley Harold Benenhaley Michael Brauch Jeff Champion Craig Cox Marion Davis Thomas Enright John Harden Henry Holland Harry Hynes Jim McMillan Tommy Mims Ernie Oxendine Johns Smith Whil Smith Billy Thompson
CHILDREN’S DANCERS Choreographed by: Kelley McMillan
Haley Champion Madison DesChamps Leslie Flynn Kiley Holloway
Breland Jones Mary Katherine Geddings Hannah Merchant Anne Jackson Scott
Hallie Thompson Andi Grae Wingate
MEN OF PRAISE Scott Barrineau Marion Davis
John James Rick Mitchum
The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Directed by: Lori Langford Assisted by: Alyssa Gibbs, Elaine Miller, Kristen Sill Ashley-Reid Baker Britton Beasley Haley Carter Hayley Champion Megan Champion Rebekah DeMars Madison DesChamps Leslie Flynn Mary Katherine Geddings
Haley Hannon James Hiott Kiley Holloway Breland Jones Molly McMahon Hannah Merchant Candace Mitchell Tristan Moore Emily Mueller
Charlie Noonan Essence Robinson Marianna Rorick Will Rorick Justin Shumate Tate Sistare Ellie Stone Hallie Thompson Andi Grae Wingate
SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE ORCHESTRA Jay Shealy, Director Susan Cotton ,Piano Pat Holloway, Synthesizer Cody Miller, Guitar Bjorn Taylor, Flute Andrew Krieger, Oboe Joni Brown, Clarinet Caroline Clayton, Clarinet 2 Jacqueline Hughes, Saxophone Paul Clayton, Horn 1 Kathryn Williams, Horn 2
Najja Lyle, Horn 3 Evan Thompson, Trumpet 1 Robert Berry, Trumpet 2 Thomas Langford, Trumpet 3 Jessica Bettinger, Trombone 1 Ben Peele, Trombone 2 Willie Session , Tuba Josh Shealy, Percussion 1 Kay Rasmussen, Percussion 2 Dacey Bell, Timpani Mary Ford, Viloin 1
Lauren Decker, Volin 1 Mikayla Geddings, Violin 1 Courtney Jackson , Violin 2 Tyliah Broughton, Violin 2 Noelle Saleh, Viola 1 Breauna Sanders, Viola 2 Amanda Roupe, Cello 1 Michael Baier, Cello 2 Darren Polutta, String Bass
PRODUCTION STAFF DIRECTOR Jay Shealy MUSIC ASSISTANT Juanita Thompson STAGE MANAGERS Vivian Hynes Cindy James CREATIVE TEAM Cindy James Jennifer McMahon Kelley McMillan Susan Trautsch CHILDREN’S CHOIR ASSISTANTS Lori Langford Elaine Miller Alyssa Gibbs SET AND PROPS DESIGN Don Morris John Harden Cindy James Charlotte Teal CHOREOGRAPHER Kelley McMillan HIS HANDS DIRECTOR Mandy Faulling SOUND/LIGHT
SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE CAST PAPERBOYS Jones DesChamps Kate Noonan Hannah DeMars Adam Baker Olivia Beasley Pate Merchant BOBBY, 50’S SON Walker Barber 50’S CAST Carl Babb Paul Gardner Lee Holloway Bill Shuler Michael, Kristine, and Anna Claire Trautsch Nancy Gardner Pam Brown Katie and Lynzie Hodge CHILDREN’S DANCERS Haley Champion Madison DesChamps Leslie Flynn Kiley Holloway Breland Jones Mary Katherine Geddings Hannah Merchant Anne Jackson Scott Hallie Thompson Andi Grae Wingate
TECHNICIANS Tommy DuBose Brent Hiott Patricia Hiott
DRAMA COACHES Susan Trautsch April Geddings Pam Brown
VIDEO COORDINATOR Jimmy Harley
SCRIPT Susan Trautsch
50’S MOM Kathleen Noonan
VIDEO CREW Jason Brown Ken Brown Allen Catoe Mike DuBose Johnnie Gibbs Katie Holloway Kaye Schmalhorst
COSTUMING Alyene McGee, Coordinator Betty Faye Altman Marion Boan Nancy Gardner Nancy Jordan Joni Feddersen Rose Bernshouse Dee Mitchum Juanita Thompson
MARY Jamie Atkinson
PHOTOGRAPHER Al Trautsch TICKET COORDINATORS Joni Feddersen Christina Geddings Amanda Queen Jane Wertz PROGRAM COMMITTEE Diane Mims Vicky Cox Mary Wayne James Dee Mitchum Donna Barnes Sandra Wallace
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Tommy DuBose TREE LIGHTING DESIGNER Jeffrey Bays TECH STAFF Tom Reaves Jeff Scruggs Shelley DuBose Grover Diamond
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50’S DAD Buddy Noonan
JOSEPH Marty Atkinson 70’S DAD Mike Baker 70’S MOM Cheryl Baker
ROBERT, 70’S SON Jacob Cotton
SECOND WISE MAN Austin Obika Chachuka
PRESENT DAY DAD Dan Barber
SERVANTS Adam Baker Olivia Beasley
PRESENT DAY MOM Laura Barber PRESENT DAY DAUGHTER Madison DesChamps SHEPHERDS Daniel Barber Brad Beasley Rion DeMars Ed Frenz John Morgan Trey Morgan Brad Russell Tim Russell Austin Baker DRUMMERS Desmond Miller Jacob Cotton Margaret McMahon Granger Rabon Margaret Rabon Katelyn Guidry HIS HANDS Riley Noonan Meagan McMahon Katherine Sistare Ashleigh Atkins Lindsey Smutz Hannah Thompson Anna Mueller Brianna Holloway Christina White Alaya Richardson Reygane Lee Kathryn Rabon Jennifer Singleton FIRST WISE MAN Buddy Noonan SERVANTS Kate Noonan Pate Merchant
THIRD WISE MAN Marshall Harper SERVANTS John Morgan Jones DesChamps CARRIERS Rion DeMars Tim Russell Trey Morgan Brad Beasley TODDLER JESUS Nolan Gooch Trip Hodge 12 YEAR OLD JESUS Will Noonan CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN ATTENDANCE Tate Sistare Joseph Hiott Hannah DeMars Daniel Barber Austin Baker SILHOUETTE CAST Charlotte Teel Jessica DuBose Thomas Enright Gracen Dowling DuBose Alderman Kathryn Rabon DANCERS Jessica DuBose Margaret Rabon Meagan McMahon Riley Noonan Ashleigh Atkins Katherine Sistare Katelyn Guidry
Snickerdoodles
1/2 c. soft butter 2 tsp. cream of tartar 1/2 c. soft shortening 1 tsp. soda 1 1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt 2 eggs 2 T. sugar 2 3/4 c. all-purpose flour 2 tsp. cinnamon
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mix shortening, butter, sugar and eggs thoroughly. Sift together flour, cream of tartar, soda and salt; stir in. Roll into balls the size of small walnuts. Roll in mixture of 2 T. sugar and 2 tsp. cinnamon. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Note: These cookies puff up at first, then flatten out. Makes about 5 doz. 2-inch cookies. Submitted by Dee Mitchum
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The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
Singing Christmas tree Through the years by Tillman E. Cuttino, Jr. The first experience Sumter First Baptist had with a Singing Christmas Tree was in the 1980’s, when Music Minister John Thompson introduced the tree concept to the choir and the congregation. That first tree was performed using a rented structure that was brought to the church for one week of performances, then dismantled and returned. The considerable undertaking created much excitement in the church and in the community, but was not repeated for a number of years. Don Hansen was called as Minister of Music in 1991, and it was with his vision that the Sumter Singing Christmas Tree became an integral part of the music ministry of our church. He visited other churches and civic organizations that staged Singing Christmas Tree performances and envisioned ministry opportunities not often seen in those events. Don located a retired civil engineer in Texas, who had worked with erecting and dismantling the scaffolding for his church to stage their SCT. He had set out to “build a better mouse trap”, designing and fabricating modular components for custom Singing Christmas Tree structures. No longer were standard construction scaffolds modified for the purpose- now stable and sturdy steel trees were available to accommodate choirs numbering well over one hundred voices. As Don shared his vision, members of First Baptist responded! Funds were raised to purchase not only the custom SCT structure, but also the electronics and software to go with it. The FBC choir reached out to others in the community, and the first practice in anticipation of the Christmas season in 1992 saw 74 voices preparing for a new event. December of that first year of OUR tree dawned with a small army of willing workers assembled to do whatever was required to make the tree happen. Smells and sounds of grinders shaping the “pre-fit” steel components of the tree skeleton echoed through the church complex. Skill saws, nail guns, screw guns, and various other tools sounded off as wooden “trusses” and modular floor panels were constructed. Sawdust decorated the clothes, faces, and hair of many of the volunteers. The tree was assembled, and most of the greenery was installed in an allnight session after a Saturday night wedding (Judge Kitty Herbert’s daughter). Wives were calling Debbie Hansen at home all night to try and find out where their husbands were (before cell phones were abundant). Many of us went home to shower and change in time to come back for church that morning (including Pastor Jim Goodroe). Many men in the choir pulled this all-nighter and were rewarded with the privilege of singing The Hallelujah Chorus on no sleep. As the first performance approached, the orchestra of volunteers from the community, Sumter High School, and a number of pro-
fessional musicians, joined the choir. Dress rehearsal arrived with the customary concerns: Would everything come together? Would the sound and light systems work? To say God answers prayers is obvious- He was glorified in the first performance of the Sumter Singing Christmas Tree- and indeed in each performance that has followed that! The original 10 tiered tree couldn’t hold much more than the 74 voices of the first performance. We expanded to 13 rows by about year 3 and then added the fifth 30 degree section with stairs added on the organ side a few years after that. By 1997 (year 6), we had 101 singers on the tree (according to a picture and article by the Item). How small the original tree looks when compared to the full tree and complete staging now being utilized. Each year that followed that first performance, enhancements and additions to the staging and facilities were made. The baptistry was incorporated as a new stage area and many recall the moving and emotional first appearance of Jesus in that dramatic setting. Theater lighting was added and then expanded across the sanctuary ceiling. Electrical circuits were added and extensive sound system improvements enhanced the reliability and professional projection of the wonderful voices of the many soloists to sing in the tree. When Jeremy Hansard accepted the call to become Minister of Music at First Baptist, some may have worried about his ability to meet such a high standard in continuing the SCT. Jeremy numbered himself among the doubters! Not only did he rise to the challenge, but also the Lord blessed each effort as attendance and impact continued to expand. Each year costumes, sets, props, drama and music were combined in new and fresh ways to entertain, engage, and transform a fun Christmas event into a spiritual experience that inspired and communicated eternal truths about Jesus and our need for his saving power and grace. When Jay Shealy accepted the challenge to continue the Sumter Singing Christmas Tree, he used his extreme energy and creative ability to re-energize the church and choir. Each year met or exceeded the one before, so that the only real concerns that surfaced were the increasing technical challenges of aging electronics and lighting, threatening to fail during a performance and possibly dooming an entire year’s presentation. When a crisis point was reached, the church had a decision to make. With much prayer and soul searching, many recognized this as what Henry Blackabee describes as a “Crisis of Belief”. Following the advice to look to see where God was working and seeking to join Him once again, the community response and many lives touched by the SCT, the decision was made to invest even more substantially in the Sumter Singing Christmas Tree. The church agreed to spend approximately $60,000.00 to purchase new lighting, decorations, software, and tree infrastructure. That step of faith was rewarded handsomely as donors stepped up to cover much of that cost in the first year of the “new” tree. The community was treated to lighting and dramatic effects that would have been impossible previously. Comments like “fresh!”, “awe-inspiring” and “unbelievable” have been commonplace since the tree was upgraded and updated. Interest in participating in the tree has continued to grow to the point that this tree is expected to number over 100 voices representing over 30 churches. Every year the Singing Christmas Tree has changed. Never content to simply repeat an excellent drama or song set, Don Hansen and later Jeremy Hansard and Jay Shealy began planning the next tree literally before the current year’s tree was dismantled and stored away. With much prayer, planning, and input from volunteers within the church and the broader Sumter community, the program and staging has been quite varied. What has not changed is the strong spiritual focus and the message of the Gospel. First Baptist Church welcomes you to the 2013 Sumter Singing Christmas Tree. It is our prayer that you will be impacted by the performance to the Glory of God- He is indeed the Reason for the Season!
Bean Salad 1 can French-style green beans 1 can yellow beans 1 can red kidney beans 1/2 c. onions (chopped) 1/2 c. bell pepper chopped 1/2 c. vinegar 3/4 c. sugar 1 tsp. salt 1/3 c. salad oil Drain beans and mix with pepper. Make dressing by combining vinegar, sugar, salt and oil. Pour over bean mixture, put in jar, seal and let refrigerate overnight. NOTE: Will keep up to 2 weeks. Yield: 20 servings Lenore Gaston’s Recipe
The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
History of Santa Claus
The smell of Christmas
by Donna Barnes Christmas and gift-giving have long been associated with Good Saint Nick, St. Nicholas, or as we would say, Santa Claus. There is a myth quality to his story, but there is also a real St. Nicholas, a fourth century bishop in the early Christian Church. It is based in this tradition of generosity that our ideas of Santa have developed. Nicholas was born the only son of wealthy and good parents in what is today Turkey. Early in childhood his devout mother taught him Scriptures, but then both parents died in an epidemic, leaving the young man in possession of much wealth. The young man was dedicated to God and moved to Myra, the chief city of his province. There, after the death of their bishop the leaders of the church chose Nicholas and insisted when he thought himself too young. He was continually known for miracles and his modesty. There were regular gifts to needy situations, often at night and anonymous. Our well-known and popular poem describing a visit from St. Nicholas was penned by Professor Clement Moore, who taught at a Seminary in New York. It was his conception that Santa was jolly, heavy, and driving reindeer over the housetops. That was written in December of 1822 for his own children. In the next years Dr. Moore’s poem was read in all parts of the country. That image was developed more through Thomas Nast’s cartoons during Civil War
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by Sandra Wallace The Christmas season engages all of our senses. We love seeing the decorations, hearing Christmas hymns and songs, giving family and friends welcoming hugs and unwrapping gifts. We love eating Christmas goodies, and we especially enjoy the spicy, citrusy smell of Christmas. Here’s an easy way to keep that smell in your home all during this special season.
Directions: years, adding the red, fur-trimmed suit. Having come from Bavaria in Germany, Nast would have remembered a fur coat for Nicholas, bringing gifts to children. The celebration would shift from the St. Nicholas Day in early December to be part of the December 25th celebration of Christ’s Birthday. In the irony of this Santa tradition so rooted in European celebration, the American Santa is recognized all around the world today. Each decade may bring subtle changes to Santa’s look, but the tradition of gifts for children is a blessed part of the holiday. Some do not keep the tradition of attributing these gifts to Santa Claus, but all of us enjoy this generous effort to share and please at Christmas—so much a part of the Christmas season and Message.
In a medium sauce pan put 2 to 3 cups of water. Add the following: 2 tablespoons whole cloves 6 sticks of cinnamon
6 bay leaves 2 tablespoons dried orange peel 2 tablespoons dried lemon peel Simmer on a back burner, and shortly your whole house will smell delicious. P.S. Be sure water does not simmer dry. Just add more water as needed.
Pork Chop Casserole 6 pork chops 1/2 c. onion (chopped) 2/3 c. rice (uncooked) 1 can tomatoes 1 c. water 1 c. whole kernel corn 2 tsp. salt (separated) 1/4 tsp. black pepper Fry pork chops in a frying pan with a lid. Lift chops out and remove excess grease. Return chops to pan. Sprinkle rice over chops. Sprinkle on 1 tsp. salt. Add water, onions, and tomatoes. Spoon on corn and 1 tsp. of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and turn heat to low; cover and simmer 25 to 30 minutes. If mixture seems too dry, add a little more water. Beth Mim’s Recipe
1898 in Review
A glance back at the way things were as we look to what’s coming next
Office
803.773.3732
Prayer Line
803.773.2111
contact@fbcsumter.org
Website
www.fbcsumter.org
First Baptist Church - Sumter
Candy was invented. Will Kellogg invents Cornflakes. Nikola Tesla made a remote control using radio signals. John Moses Browning invented the first semi-automatic shotgun. The vertical filing cabinet was invented by Edwin G. Seibels. The sousaphone, or marching tuba, was invented by C.G. Conn. February 1st - The first auto insurance policy was issued by Travelers Insurance Company. March 24th - The first automobile was sold. April 21st - The Spanish American War began. May 19th - The US Post Office authorized the use of postcards. July 1st - Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders charged up San Juan Hill. August 12th - The United States annexed Hawaii. August 16th - Edwin Prescott presented the roller coaster. August 29th - The Goodyear Tire Company was founded. September 30th - The City of New York was established. November 2nd - Cheerleading made it’s debut at the University of Minnesota with Johnny Campbell leading the crowd in cheering on the football team. December 21st - Pierre nd Marie Curie discovered radium.
1lb. of Sugar 5¢ 1lb. of Oatmeal 3¢ 1lb. of bread 6¢ 1lb. of butter 26¢ 1qt. of milk 8¢ 1 dozen eggs 20¢ 1lb. coffee 18¢ 1lb. of potatoes 3¢ 1lb. of cheese 16¢ 1 can tomatoes 8¢ 1lb. of onions 3¢ 1lb. chuck steak 10¢ 1lb. bacon 18¢ 1lb. pot roast 10¢ Toothbrush 5¢ Coca-Cola 5¢ Postage Stamp 2¢ 1 ton of coal $3.25
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The Sumter Item DECEMBER 25, 1898 • SPECIAL EDITION
THE STORY CONDUCTOR: JAY SHEALY
A ARRANGED CelticANDChristmas Overture ORCHESTRATED BY DANIEL SEMSEN Arr. © 2012 Word Music, LLC Includes “Joy to the World”, “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing”, “The Wexford Carol” and “How Suddenly a Baby Cries”
Come On, It’s Christmas! ARRANGED AND ORCHESTRATED BY DAVID T. CLYDESDALE • WORDS AND MUSIC BY DAVID T. CLYDESDALE © 2012 Celeste & David T. Music/ASCAP and Pilot Point Music / ASCAP
Ring Those Bells Medl e y ARRANGED AND ORCHESTRATED BY DAVID T. CLYDESDALE
© 1984 Velvet Apple Music - Includes “I’ll Be Home With Bells On” and “Come On, Ring Those Bells” - Featuring Marty Atkinson and Katelyn Gray, Soloists
This Is Christmas ARRANGED AND ORCHESTRATED BY DAVE WILLIAMSON • WORDS AND MUSIC BY JON MICAH SUMRALL AND DAVE LUBBEN © 2009 Indecisive Music Pub (ASCAP) / Thirsty Moon River Publ. Inc. (ASCAP) / Tent Creative Songs (BMI) Featuring Lindy Choice, Carie Collins, Amy Graves, Diane Mims, Brenda Riley and Macy Terry, Ensemble
Be Born In Me
ARRANGED BY MARK MCCLURE, ORCHESTRATED BY PHILLIP KEVEREN • WORDS AND MUSIC BY BERNIE HERMS AND NICHOLE NORDEMAN © 2011 Birdboy Songs / Bernie Herms Music / Birdwing Music (ASCAP) / EMI CMG Music (BMI) - Featuring Jamie Atkinson, Soloist
The Newborn Ancient of Days
FROM THE COLLECTION AND ON EARTH PEACE • ARRANGED BY JAY ROUSE AND MARTY PARKS • WORDS AND MUSIC BY MARTY PARKS © 2012 PraiseGathering Music Featuring Celeste Baker, Dean Benenhaley, Harold Benenhaley, Rhonda Carter, Steve Dinkins, Nya Green, Deloris Griffith, John James, Ensemble
Joy to the Worl d ! FROM THE COLLECTION MAJESTY OF HEAVEN • ARRANGED BY TOMM FETTKE • WORDS AND MUSIC BY SHANNON WEXELBERT • ORIGINAL WORDS BY ISAAC WATTS © 2010 Shanny Banny Music / This arr. ©2011 Gaither Music Company - Featuring Alyssa Gibbs, Soloist
Processional of the Invited ARRANGED BY JAY ROUSE • MUSIC BY RANDY VADER AND JAY ROUSE, WORDS BY RANDY VADER • ORCHESTRATION BY RIC DOMENICO © 2011 PraiseGathering Music - Featuring Jacob Cotton, Katelyn Guidry, Margaret McMahon, Desmond Miller, Granger Rabon, Margaret Rabon, Drummers
Wonderful to Me ARRANGED BY CAROL CYMBALA AND JASON MICHAEL WEBB • WORDS AND MUSIC BY CAROL CYMBALA, ONAJE JEFFERSON AND JASON MICHAEL WEBB © 2009 Carol Joy Music (ASCAP) / JasonNene Music (ASCAP) - Featuring Lois Haselden and Frances Thomas, Soloists
One King ARRANGED BY ROBERT STERLING • WORDS AND MUSIC BY JEFF BORDERS, GAYLA BORDERS AND LOWELL ALEXANDER
© 1999 Milene Music, Inc. / Sony / ATV Songs LLC (d/b/a Tree Publishing Co) / Grayson Castle Songs / Randy Cox Music, Inc. / Bridge Building Music, Inc.
Offering FROM THE COLLECTION HARK THE HERALD • ARRANGED AND ORCHESTRATED BY DAVE WILLIAMSON • WORDS AND MUSIC BY PAUL BALOCHE © 2003 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (ASCAP)
Yahweh, with He Lives FROM THE COLLECTION THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS • ARRANGED BY DAVE WILLIAMSON • WORDS AND MUSIC BY PAULA STEFANOVICH © 2007 and 2011, Joshua Creek Music (ASCAP) / Omega Christian Music (ASCAP) / Hopper Brothers & Connie Publishing (BMI) “He Lives” WORDS AND MUSIC BY ALFRED H. ACKLEY © 1933, renewed 1961; This arr. © 2011 Word Music, LLC
My Ransom, with Jesus Paid It All
ARRANGED BY CLIFF DUREN • WORDS AND MUSIC BY PHIL MADEIRA AND CINDY MORGAN © 2009; This arr. 2013 Mail Train Music (admin. By Fun Attic Music) / Sony / ATV Cross Keys Publishing (ASCAP) / Oliviannah Music (ASCAP) (both admin. by Sony) / ATV Tunes, LLC Jesus Paid It All WORDS BY ELVINA M. HALL, MUSIC BY JOHN T. GRAPE Featuring Jessica DuBose, Margaret Hill and Rachel Rife, Soloists
What Will You Do?
ARRANGED BY DAVID CLYDESDALE • WORDS AND MUSIC BY CELESTE CLYDESDALE AND DAVID T. CLYDESDALE © 2010 Word Music, LLC / Clydesdale and Clydesdale Music (admin. by Word Music, LLC) (ASCAP) Featuring Lori Brown and Mary W. James, Soloists; Children’s Ensemble Group 1: Hannah Merchant, Tristan Moore, Rebekah DeMars, Haley Carter; Children’s Ensemble Group 2: Madison DesChamps, Hayley Champion, Molly McMahon, Andi Grae Wingate
Kyrie Eleison
ARRANGED AND ORCHESTRATED BY DANIEL SEMSEN • WORDS AND MUSIC BY KEITH GETTY AND STUART TOWNEND © 2010 Thankyou Music (admin. by worshiptogether.com songs) / Gettymusic (admin. by Music Services) - Featuring Marty Atkinson, Felix Bauza, Lori Brown, Melissa Coonce, John James, Mary Wayne James, Barbara Scruggs, Juanita Williams, Ensemble