The word Noel goes back to the Latin, natalis, or “birth.” So the theme is "joyous birth," and the occasion for joy is the birth of Jesus. The songs are various Christmas tunes. The readings and prayer come from the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and anti-Nazi dissident who lost his life at the end of WWII. Christmas was especially important to Bonhoeffer, and the memory of Christmases past gave him strength.

Jazz Prayer is a relaxing yet invigorating Friday evening experience – a perfect way to end the week and enter into the weekend. Refreshments are provided at 7:10, followed by the service at 7:30. You’ll experience live jazz from professional musicians, interwoven with thought-provoking readings and prayers selected for the evening’s theme. Children are welcome – the services are over around 8:30 so it’s not too late of an evening for children (or adults!)