BRATTLEBORO — St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 16 Bradley Ave., celebrates this Advent and Christmas season with three special services. The public is warmly invited to these joyful events.
• Annual Festival of Advent Lessons and Carols, Sunday, Dec. 14, 4 p.m. This ecumenical service, rooted in the great English choral tradition, combines music and scripture readings of the Advent Christmas Season in a beautiful, candle-lit setting. The 25 men and women of the St. Michael's Choir and guest musicians Alex Ogle, Goodrun Weeks, and Judith Serkin, directed by Susan Dedell, will perform seasonal music from a broad range of musical styles and traditions. Advent carols and hymns will be sung by all.
• Festival of Lights Service, Saturday, Dec. 20, 4 p.m. This service will feature the singing of the children of the St. Michael's Choir School. There will be music, carols, scripture readings, and prayers - all led by the children of the Choir School under the direction of Susan Dedell. All are welcome.
• The Longest Night Service, Sunday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m. The holiday season is the most difficult time of the year for many carrying sadness, pain, or loss, an added struggle when joy and celebration are expected. In this inclusive service, the burdens all of us bear are named and the promise of light that follows even the longest night is claimed. Music, readings, candles, and chants will offer comfort during this time of expectations.