By Morgan Mizell

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — The members of First Presbyterian Church of Natchez will host Christmas Eve Caroling at 5 p.m. Sunday on the steps of the church located at the corner of Pearl and State streets in downtown Natchez.

Charles Borum, a ruling elder of the church, said the idea came about during one of the recent mission unit meetings.

“We have always held a Christmas Eve service; however, this year we are between permanent pastors and we felt this would be a good fit with our move to become a missional church,” Borum said. “Our mission is ‘Following Christ, Serving Everyone.’”

This event will take the place of the traditional evening service; however, there will be a regular 8:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. service that morning.

In keeping with the idea of “missional living,” the church is trying to become more involved in the community and making the Miss-Lou better. Basically, it is trying to “live” the Gospel.

Sunday’s special guest music leader, Terrence Robinson feels this event is definitely hitting that mark.

“I am excited about the event and being a part of bringing the community together for something positive,” Robinson said. “It is a great because at this time of year we are celebrating the birth of Christ and I think being together, as God intended — no matter denomination or race — is what it, this season, is all about.”

Robinson, who serves as the choir director for St. Mark No. 2 Missionary Baptist Church, participates in Christmas events at several area churches, but said this will be his first time to visit First Presbyterian.

“It will be my first time at the church” Robinson said. “I am excited about celebrating with and meeting the congregation.”

All members of the community are encouraged and invited to attend.

“The event will be brief, about 30 to 45 minutes,” Borum said. “We will have song sheets with lyrics and the songs will be very familiar. We have picked songs, in order, that tell the story of Christ’s coming as God incarnate. Emmanuel, ‘God with us.’”

Borum said this will be the first time First Presbyterian has held an event like this, but hopes it will not be the last.

There is no cost for the event and there will be hot chocolate and cookies on hand for refreshments.