Christmas Eve around the Island

Grand Island Dispatch, December 29, 2006
by Michael J. Owen
U.S. Navy Journalist (Ret.)

As New Year’s Day 2007 approaches this weekend and most people prepare for festive celebrations or make New Year resolutions, some may reflect on Christmas past.

Last Sunday evening, ’twas the night before Christmas, and many gathered in churches across Grand Island to share in the glow of candles, the sounds of church bells, and the singing of carols. Also at various Christmas Eve services, the Dispatch humbly attempted to photograph and capture the spirit of the night and true meaning of Christmas. More photographs are seen on page 20.

Speaking from the Bible verse Luke 2, reciting the message that echoed through the halls of many churches this holiday season, Pastor Calvin VanderMey of Bible Fellowship Center on Baseline Road also told the story of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus Christ.

‘Tidings of Joy’

“… And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

“And the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord,’ ” read Pastor VanderMey. He also reminded the congregation’s children – and children at heart – that this message is summarized in “Charlie Brown’s Christmas” which runs every year on television.

At Island Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Diane Phinney recited the spoken word from verses John 1 as the congregation lit candles, dimmed the lights and sang “Silent Night,” the highlight at most services. “…‘In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not … that was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.’ ”

Childhood Memories

At St. Timothy Lutheran Church, usher Eric Glassman was assisting with their Candlelight Service. “The Candlelight Service is warm and inviting and reflects on the true meaning of Christmas,” Glassman explained. Born and raised on Grand Island, the Clarence resident has attended the church since childhood. “Like many Christmas Eve services, our service is small, close and personal. It’s also a nice addition to this time of rush, rush. I’ve attended here since I was a child and like many, I look forward to it every year. It always reminds me of my childhood,” he continued.

The Dispatch also visited Trinity United Methodist Church at 11 p.m. and ended the night at St. Stephen’s with Catholic Mass at midnight. There, usher Steve Kneidel of Grand Island also reflected on childhood. “No matter how old you are, we always seem to feel like a child at Christmastime. It seems to bring out the childhood in all of us as we celebrate this blessed day of reflection and giving.”

Hopefully, as you count your blessings and look ahead in 2007, you’ll say borrowing from the title of Frank Capra’s film starring Jimmy Stewart that debuted 60 years ago this month – “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

From all of the staff at Niagara Frontier Publications, we hope you had a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and will have a Happy New Year.