The Christmas Eve service at the Old West Church began very informally in the early 1950s with just a few families led in song by June Morse (the OWC musical director) playing an old upright piano. When it was too cold they skipped the service! It has grown into a yearly event with people coming to experience a non-denominational service lit only by the gentle glow of candles and warmed by the heat of those packed together in the pews.
Community members make wreaths and roping to adorn the inside and outside of the building. The service consists of readings from scripture by high school students and songs by the Calais Community Choir. It is a magical evening of the tradition and the warmth of the holiday season.
Join us for the 2022 candlelight service – live and inside under the steeple – on December 24th, at 5:00pm. (Masks are encouraged. Please stay home if you have symptoms.)