Hayesville’s Good Shepherd Episcopal Church opens its doors to welcome the entire community during the Christmas Season. “A series of events that include seasonal music and scripture, supportive and loving services, and even holiday cookies await everyone from our Clay and Towns County neighborhoods and beyond,” says Rector Bill Breedlove.

Christmas activities include “Lessons and Carols” on December 17th at the 10:45 a.m. service. “Lessons and Carols” can be considered a preparation for celebrating the birth of Christ in the weeks to follow. Six short Bible readings foretell and describe Jesus’ mission for our World. Interspersed with these teachings will be the congregational singing of favorite seasonal music and music by Good Shepherd’s Choir led by Keith Christensen.

The Holidays can also be a time of sadness for many. Good Shepherd offers a special Service of Remembrance and Hope titled “Blue Christmas” on December 21st at 11:00 a.m. Many of our neighbors are weighed under by the loss of a loved one, failing health or finances, and other issues that can make the Holiday Season filled with sadness, grief and despair. The “Blue Christmas” service is designed to lift in love those of our community who suffer, replacing the “blues” with joy and hope.

The Annual Christmas Cantata will be performed on Saturday, December 23rd at 6:30 p.m. Music Director Keith Christensen explains, “Once again the Chancel Choir will be presenting a Christmas Cantata for the community. Special readings about the Christmas story will help introduce and enhance each song. Come and enjoy the story of Christmas with beautiful music and Caroling! Don’t forget to bring some Christmas cookies to share during intermission if you are able. All are welcome at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Hayesville.”

Please bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the Clay and Towns County food pantries.

Christmas Eve services will be held at 4:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. The Holy Eucharist will be offered at both services and the Chancel Choir will sing at the 11:00 p.m. service.

A Christmas day service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Christmas Morning, December 25th.