Tree Lighting Ceremony brightens the holiday spirit

Barry Byers Posted Events
Image: The Christmas tree lights up Main Street in Italy — After the Christmas tree lights were turned on next to the marquee in downtown Italy, the congregation joined in the singing of Silent Night.

The Christmas tree lights up Main Street in Italy — After the Christmas tree lights were turned on next to the marquee in downtown Italy, the congregation joined in the singing of Silent Night. (Barry Byers)

The City of Italy’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 6 at the Cornerstone in downtown Italy included the singing of Christmas carols, hot chocolate and prayers.

Pastor Todd Gray, of Central Baptist Church, welcomed everyone inside the Cornerstone where Pastor Ronnie Dabney, of First Baptist Church, read scripture and Rev. Algua Ray Isaac lead worship in prayer.

Special music was performed by Mt. Gilead & Union Missionary Baptist Combined Male Chorus and Mayme Onstad who sang Mary Did You Know?. Dennis Perkins, Jr., of Mt. Gilead lead the congregational singing.

Pastor Preston E. Dixon, of Mt. Gilead, gave the proclamation followed by the benediction from Rev. Tim Thomas, of First United Methodist Church.

Following the inside service, everyone was invited to get a cup of hot chocolate provided by the City of Italy (Park Board). The congregation then walked to the downtown marquee where a short service and the tree lighting would take place.

Kingdom Kids from the Central Baptist Church, directed by Kim Varner, lead the singing. The opening carol was Away in the Manger followed by a scripture read by Pastor Todd.

Then, as a light mist was falling down, the Christmas tree lights were turned on bringing a special glow to Main Street.

The congregation then closed the heart warming event with the singing of Silent Night.

Pastor Alvin Onstad, of Church in the Wildwood, gave the closing prayer.

The Italy Ministerial Alliance and the City of Italy pray that you and your family have a most joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year!

You are also invited to additional holiday events listed below:

  • Saturday, December 19, 7:00 p.m.
    Central Baptist Church
    113 S. Ward Street, Italy, Texas
    “God Speaking…Throughout the Ages And Still Today”
    Presented by the combined choirs of Central Baptist Church, Italy, Texas and Ferris Baptist Fellowship, Ferris, Texas.
  • Sunday, December 20, 11:00 a.m to 12:00 noon
    First Baptist Church
    200 Clark Street, Italy, Texas
    A Special Christmas Service
  • Thursday, December 24, 6:00 p.m.
    Central Baptist Church
    113 S. Ward Street, Italy, Texas
    Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
    “Carols, Candles & Music”
  • Thursday, December 24, 6:00 p.m.
    First United Methodist Church
    124 Harpold Street, Italy, Texas
    Christmas Eve Service