The Fauquier Baptist Church family gathered for a meaningful and joy-filled celebration of Advent during this year’s “Hanging of the Greens Service,” a tradition that beautifully symbolizes through Scripture, and fellowship, the meaning behind Christmas, ushering in the Advent Season starting from November 30- through December 24. This special observance also reflects the spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ while the service itself highlighted the gifts, talents, and leadership of our youth. The evening opened with the call to worship from our own Associate Minister Bertha Jackson, who shared the pulpit with Associate Minister Harold Nash. Then we were blessed and made to feel welcomed by Sister Janine Allen Jordon, and the scriptural reading Isiah 9:3-7 read by Sister Karen Darkwah. Together, they all set the stage and reminded the congregation—through the authority of Scripture—why we celebrate Advent. Their message made clear that Jesus Christ alone is the reason for this sacred season. As the sanctuary grew warm with anticipation, the youth of Fauquier Baptist Church led the congregation through the cherished symbols of Advent. Sister Skylar Cleaton set the stage and illuminated the meaning of the Advent, a reminder of God’s unchanging and everlasting love, followed by others:
Sister Yvette McDermott Thomas, of the Jerry Allen Scholarship read the meaning of the Hanging of the Greens marking the beginning of Advent and how decorating the church, our homes and other places symbolize and represent the promise and hope of Jesus with evergreen and other decorative items.
Sister Kenitra Jackson, representing the Jerry Allen Memorial Scholarship Committee, explained the vibrant symbolism of the Poinsettia, capturing both beauty and reverence of the flowers.
Sister Soleil Cleaton presented the Nativity Scene, inviting worshippers to reflect on the humble manger where salvation entered the world.
Sister Nariyah Lewis shared the significance of the Gift of Christmas, reminding us of God’s greatest gift was wrapped not in paper but in promise.
Sister Narahjae Lewis spoke on the Christmas Angel, heralding the message of “good tidings of great joy.”
Brother DaMarion Jackson-Brown brought smiles and a touch of humor as he shared the story of the Christmas Candy Cane, connecting its shape and colors to the sacrifice and shepherding heart of Christ.
Finally, in culminating this special moment Brother KeyJohn White presented The Christmas Bell—a symbol of proclamation and joy—and led the lighting of the Christmas tree, casting a warm glow across the sanctuary to honor the Light of the World, – Jesus.
Adding to the beauty of the service, the evening was graced by musical selections from the Gospel Music Workshop of Goochland & Vicinity, under the dynamic direction of Brother Cedric Copeland Cox. True to their calling, they ministered through song with excellence and anointing, lifting the hearts of all in attendance and enhancing the celebration with spirit-filled praise.
This Advent service was a heartfelt reminder of the importance of nurturing the next generation, acknowledging the birth of Christ and the true meaning of Christmas. Special thanks are extended to all members of the Scholarship Committee, Deaconess Jane Allen Bowles, the Youth Ministry sponsors, Sister Annette Woodson and Vickie Nash, the Sunday School Superintendent Brother Kelvin Woodson and all the parents, grandparents, and caregivers who continuously encourage and support the young people of Fauquier Baptist Church as they grow in faith and service.
The evening with closed with a light snack served by Brother Michael Thomas, Carolyn Carter and Sister Janine Allen Jordon that was deliciously refreshing to top the celebration off afterwards.
Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Let there be peace on earth—and let it begin with me.
Pictures supplied by Deacon Primus Jackson
YMT FBC Clerk