Across the country, churches of every denomination came together to celebrate Christmas Eve, and Northeast Georgia was no different. From traditional services to special candlelight gatherings, local congregations joined in a shared mission: to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.
Churches in the area hosted multiple services to accommodate the needs of their communities. Whether a congregation attended a 4 p.m. service with young children or a late-night candlelight service, the theme was consistent—honoring the birth of Christ. Many of the area’s churches, like Clarkesville First Methodist Church, held multiple services to ensure everyone could participate in the sacred observance.
Meaning of the birth
The biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth are told in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, but it is the story in the Gospel of Luke, specifically chapter 2, verses 1 through 20, that remains the most popular and widely shared version during Christmas Eve services. This story, which recounts the nativity of Christ—from the journey to Bethlehem to the angels’ proclamation to the shepherds—is a cherished tradition for Christians around the world.
At Clarkesville First Methodist Church, Pastor Ross Wheeler led his congregation through three services on Christmas Eve: a 4 p.m. service for families with young children, a 6 p.m. service for the general congregation, and a late-night 11 p.m. candlelight service. Each service was filled with reflections on the true meaning of Christmas, encouraging attendees to pause and reflect on the significance of the night.
During the lighting of the Advent candle at the start of the service, a passage was shared from the Old Testament book of Isaiah: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” He explained that Jesus represents that light, bringing hope and redemption to a world that had long been in darkness. Wheeler emphasized that sometimes, like in the darkness, it takes time for our eyes to adjust before we recognize the light—and that, in the same way, Jesus is always with us, even when we don’t immediately notice.
The light
After delivering his sermon, Pastor Wheeler invited the congregation to take part in a powerful and symbolic moment. He lit a candle from the Advent candle and passed the flame to members of the congregation. In turn, each person shared their light, passing the flame to others. The entire sanctuary was soon aglow, as the warm flicker of candlelight bathed the room in a peaceful glow.
As the lights dimmed further, the congregation joined in singing Silent Night, Holy Night, a beloved Christmas hymn that echoed through the church. The voices of the faithful filled the room, blending harmoniously with the soft glow of the candles. In that moment, the church seemed to embody the message of Christmas: a world illuminated by the light of Christ.
For the people of Clarkesville and the surrounding area, this year’s Christmas Eve services were more than just a tradition. They were a reminder that, in the midst of the darkness of life, there is always light—found in the birth of Jesus Christ. For those who attended, it was a night of reflection, hope, and community, a fitting way to honor the Savior’s birth and to carry that light into the holiday season.
As churches across Northeast Georgia illuminated their sanctuaries with candles and carols, the spirit of Christmas was alive and well. They offered a powerful reminder of the peace and joy that Christ’s birth brings to all who believe.
