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History of UUCR's

Eve of the Eve Service

— What Might You Add?

As I've been planning this year's Eve of the Eve service, I found myself curious about how the congregation ended up selecting the date of December 23 for its before-Christmas service. I checked in with Pat Bjorke, Diane Shields, and a few other long-timers.

Pat recalls, "We settled on December 23 pretty quickly because at that point in our history, the majority of members had children and wanted a UU something before leaving for other family gatherings on the 24th/25th. I don't know that we actually ever had a December 24 service. I know that I led one of the very first services, and it was at the Quaker meetinghouse—lots of carols and reading a UU-ized version of something Christmassy."

Diane shared, "I don't know the year (but might be able to find it with a little research). I think it started when we were meeting at the Friends Meeting House, and they had their own Christmas Eve service. A couple that were UUCR members at the time, Michael and Carolyn Petroski, owned a small restaurant in Chestertown, on High St. (I think The Blue Plate) and opened it to UUCR for the Eve of the Eve service. I think it included cookies, coffee, etc., maybe even some soups. That first one was a lovely evening with a light snow falling (not enough to make driving difficult—just a pretty scene)."

Based on stories I've heard from Pat, Vida, and others over the years, Eve of the Eve services have been led by many and have ranged from traditional to not-so-traditional. Some have had incredibly interactive formats, complete with costumes and props, with gatherings held in homes, at a restaurant, the Quaker meeting house, and for many years now in our current sanctuary.

What can you recall about Eve of the Eve services, way back when or more recently? Maybe Jackie, Philip, or others playing carols? Middle schoolers playing their instruments? Kim Agee telling a children's story (last year, The Snow Tree)? Standing in a circle for Silent Night? For me, I remember the 2020 service on Zoom, led in front of the tree in our living room, with others actively participating from their homes. There are so many ways this community has connected over the years!

If you have Eve of the Eve stories and memories to add, we'd love to hear more! (You can email me at sue.browning2@gmail.com.)

Looking forward to celebrating together this Saturday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m.

In appreciation for our history,

Rev. Sue

I signed up to coordinate coffee and cookies for Saturday's service. I'm asking for some help in setting things up. I'd love to have 3-4 others to arrive at church with me @ 6:15 to get things ready. Please email at amylydia10@yahoo.com if you're willing to do this. 

Everyone--please bring cookies to help spread the good cheer!

Amy Warner

Once again, with your holiday generosity overflowing, the Social Justice Committee was able to deliver an abundance of gifts to our Kent County Department of Social Services family, as well as gift cards for groceries and personal items for both Kent and Queen Anne's County. With gratitude, we wish all of our families a joyous holiday season!