Church Action eNewsletter Week of December 8, 2025

[RCCAtl]

Church Action eNewsletter Week of December 8, 2025 God calls us to some things we cannot do alone.  1. Sing We Now of Christmas -join Georgia Festival Chorus on Dec, 9 at 7:00 p.m. for a joyful celebration filled with beloved carols, sacred classics, and festive harmonies. A spectacular performance featuring a 100-voice chorus, flute and cello, percussion, piano and organ. Free, no tickets or reservations needed. Northside Drive Baptist Church, 3100 Northside Drive, Atlanta 30305. 2. The new gallery, Broken Promises: The Legacy of the Reconstruction Era, is now open at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Be among the first to experience this new space, which brings the era to life through immersive storytelling and the guiding voice of Ida B. Wells. The gallery highlights Wilmington, Atlanta, and Tulsa. It features artifacts from the Without Sanctuary Collection, along with a memorial space centered on the Mary Turner marker, interpreted by artist Lonnie Holley. Together, these elements offer a powerful encounter with a defining period in American history. Experience the New Gallery 3. Atlantic Institute invites you to Coffee Night, an evening to bring friends and neighbors together in the spirit of dialogue, culture, and shared experience. In previous gatherings, many of you enjoyed tasting different varieties of Turkish coffee — this time is a more interactive experience. Explore the art of Turkish coffee making through a step-by-step demonstration, learn about its cultural significance, and enjoy a lighthearted quiz with small prizes. Thursday, December 11, 6:30 p.m.  591 N Main St Suite 100, Alpharetta 30009. RSVP 4. Abrazos (Hugs): Deepening Latino-Jewish Relations, Thursday, December 11, 7:00–9:00 p.m. in Sandy Springs. The Latin American Association and Fuente Latina invite you to a powerful documentary screening and impactful evening of dialogue.  The program will feature a film exploring the experiences of Latinos in Israel and the events of October 7, followed by a panel discussion on how Latino Jews can play a pivotal role in building bridges between the Jewish and Latino communities in America. Q&A to follow.  After the program, please join us for a reception that will include lite bites of traditional dishes from the Jewish and Latino communities.  Space is limited—reserve your spot today. 5. Ignatius Retreat Center offers an Advent Retreat: The God Who Comes Close with Steve Siler, MA, Dec. 12-14. Click on the link for more information. 6. Christmas at Piedmont, Friday, Dec. 12, 5 – 9 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., at Piedmont Church, 570 Piedmont Rd NE, Marietta 30066, featuring more than 40 unique arts and crafts booths, food, dancing, and free photos with Santa.   7. Blue Christmas Service at Woodstock Community Church, 237 Rope Mill Rd, Woodstock, Saturday, Dec. 13, at 6:00 p.m.  The church is opening its doors for all those who hurt this season and offering a time of prayer and worship, as well as experiences of expressing grief through art and writing. Come as you are. All are welcome. 8. Don’t forget the 2025 Holiday Jazz Vespers at historic First Congregational Church, Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. Featured guest artists include Kathleen Bertrand, Doc Powell, Will Scruggs, Phil Davis, Dwight Andrews, and the Atlanta Jazz Chamber Chorus.  Come early to shop the Holiday Extravaganza benefitting education and outreach programs. Contact the church [phone] for information. 105 Courtland Street, NE, Atlanta 30303. Find tickets at 2025 Holiday Jazz Vespers Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite. 9. Voices of Note presents Atlanta Women’s Chorus Season of Light, Dec. 13, 2:00 p.m. and 7 p.m., Church at Ponce and Highland, 1085 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta 30306.Tickets and more information at voicesofnote.org 10. Christmas with Atlanta Master Chorale, Friday, Dec. 12, 8 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 13, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., Schwartz Center for Performing Arts. Find tickets at Christmas with Atlanta Master Chorale | Schwartz Center Box Office. 11. Cultivating Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, Advent Quiet Day at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 9:00-11:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. The Daughters of the King invite all to a morning of prayer and reflection as we prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus. Led by Katie Karppala. Please go to www.stdavidchurch.org to register. Questions? If you have questions contact Nelleke Yarbrough. 12. Winter Lights: A Sacred Celebration in Song, Poetry, and Reflection presented by Interfaith Atlanta, Saturday, Dec. 13, 4-6 p.m. Stay afterwards for refreshments and conversation.  This free event is open to the public. Come to Cannon Chapel on the campus of Emory University. Parking available at the Oxford Parking Deck, 1390 Oxford Rd., NE  13. You are invited to Emmanuel's 26th Annual Christmas Concert, Saturday, Dec. 13, at 6:00 p.m. The concert will feature renown vocalist T. Renee' Crutcher & jazz keyboardist Brian Christopher Clay, and other local musicians and choirs! Come for the music and stay for the Dessert Hour immediately following. Meet old and new friends this holiday season! There is no admission charge. Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 3050 Cascade Road SW, Atlanta 30311, corner of Cascade and Adams Drive. Call [phone] if you need more information. 14. Christmas with Coro Vocati “Songs of Wonder, Hope, and Joy, Saturday, Dec. 13, 7:00 p.m. at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church, 571 Holt Rd NE, Marietta 30062. The music of Christmas carries timeless beauty—stories of mystery and wonder, melodies of hope and joy. Coro Vocati invites you on a musical journey spanning centuries, weaving together cherished carols and inspired new works. Find tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/christmas-with-coro-vocati-songs.  15. The Georgia State Christian Harmony Convention will be held at No. 3 Railroad Street, in Arnoldsville, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13 and 14.  Dinner on the grounds at noon. 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Contact Michael Spencer at [e-mail] or Jane Cannon at  [e-mail] for information. 16. Jingle Jog + Nutcracker Holiday Brunch will benefit Summit Counseling Center, 9000 Avalon Boulevard Dec 14,  from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a Christmas-cheer filled jog and activities at The Hotel at Avalon, including Holiday Brunch and a mini Nutcracker ballet performance. 17. Christmas with Coro Vocati, Songs of Wonder, Hope, and Joy, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2:30 p.m., All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 634 West Peachtree, Atlanta. The music of Christmas carries timeless beauty—stories of mystery and wonder, melodies of hope and joy. Coro Vocati invites you on a musical journey spanning centuries, weaving together cherished carols and inspired new works. The evening will also feature moments for the audience to join in song. Christmas with Coro Vocati: Songs of Wonder, Hope, and Joy Tickets,... 18. Atlanta Sacred Harp Holiday Singing, Sunday, Dec.14, 3:30 -7 p.m., at Church of our Saviour, Garrison Hall (building across from main church entrance) 1068 North Highland Ave. Atlanta 30306.  Parking along N. Highland or Los Angeles. Metered spaces are free on Sunday. Supper on the grounds from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Beginners welcome! Singing will be from the 2025 Sacred Harp, Christmas Harp, and Eclectic Harmony, with loaner books available. If you’d like to sing other holiday songs (printed in 4 shapes!), please bring copies (approx 20). If you’re able, please bring a covered dish to share. Contact Amy Wells at 404-436-4522 or [e-mail] for information.   19. Sounds of Christmas Concert at Shallowford Presbyterian Church, Dec. 14, 4-5 p.m. This is Shallowford’s Annual Community Christmas Concert & Sing-Along, where you will hear your favorite holiday tunes! This Christmas concert features members from Shallowford’s youth and adult choirs, and instrumental soloists. Friends, family, and neighbors – all are welcome! 2375 Shallowford Road, Atlanta 30345. 20. The Adult Choir at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 435 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta 30308, is honored to present the world premiere of "Lamplight" by internationally acclaimed composer, Nicholas White, during Advent Lessons and Carols on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. The anthem's text is a beautiful poem authored by St. Luke's parishioner, Kathy Lee. The commission honors the V. Rev. Winnie Varghese, 23rd Rector of St. Luke's, and now Dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, NYC. 21. Come to Clairmont Presbyterian Church for a magical evening filled with beautiful chamber music and festive holiday tunes in support of the food pantry at Toco Hills Community Alliance, Dec. 14, 6:00 p.m. Performances by The Ridibund Chamber Music Society and A Stranger and a Friend are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. All are welcome at this free concert! Please consider bringing one package of uncooked rice per attendee to donate to THCA in support of their work to feed our neighbors in need. Founded in 1998, this local agency operates a food pantry and  kitchen to provide assistance to those facing food insecurity. R.s.v.p. for free tickets at https://tinyurl.com/CPCHolidayConcert2025. This is a family-friendly event and there will be Christmas crafts for younger attendees.  22. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is spreading holiday cheer by supporting numerous charities. $1 from every ticket sold for their December 14 shows in Atlanta will be donated to the Atlanta Community Food Bank to help families facing hunger and food insecurity. Book Your Tickets Now 23. Atlanta Singing, Monday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m., in The Barn behind St. John the Wonderworker 543 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312. The Barn- off of Orleans Avenue, walk up drive way behind the church. No musical experience needed. Contact info: Anna Hinton [e-mail]. 24. Experience the wonder of Christmas with the Georgia Boy Choir, Dec. 19 & 20 at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, 7 p.m. both nights. This year’s concert features all five levels of the Georgia Boy Choir, a full orchestra, the great organ, festive favorites, and moving new works that capture the spirit of Christmas like never before. Come early to enjoy the magical holiday atmosphere in the lobby and take part in Santa’s Caravan Gift Drive, supporting local families in need.  Tickets and details at https://atlantaboychoir.org/ 25. Longest Night Service  at Morningside Presbyterian Church, 1411 N Morningside Dr, Atlanta 30306, Sunday, Dec. 21 at 5 p.m. While things may be merry and bright for some during the holiday season, others may feel sadness and pain. For some, this time of year can be the loneliest of all times. For others, grief over world and life events may feel overwhelming. The Longest Night is a service to acknowledge such feelings. Gather on the longest night of the year for words of comfort, prayers for hope, gentle music, and silence. Peace, Ethel Ware Carter