Tree of Life hosts solstice, Christmas and New Year’s services
The Tree of Life Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 5603 Bull Valley Road in McHenry has a full plateful of winter holidays services and celebrations set. It will celebrate the traditional, sacred, and secular of the season of light reborn.
First is “Kindling the Embers of Presence,” a solstice service, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Welcome the longest night with poetry, music, song, dance, and drums. This participatory evening will rekindle appreciation for the darkness, reconnect you to the web of all existence, and prepare you for the return of the light. The gathering will mark the end of the shortest day of the year and welcome you to set intentions as you look forward to new beginnings. This service will be in person at the church building only.
Next is a special joint musical program by Tree of Life and its sister Congregation Prairie Circle UU Congregation in Grayslake with Chaplain Dave Becker, who serves both congregations.
Tree of Life and Prairie Circle’s combined vocal choirs, under the direction of Beth Hoover, and the handbell choirs, under the direction of Joyce DeWitt, will be joined by the Tree of Life Woodwind Ensemble and guest musicians to offer a wide selection of secular holiday songs, traditional carols, and songs for Hanukkah and solstice. A reception with refreshments will follow. This service will begin at 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at the church building. It will also be available on Zoom.
The Christmas Eve candlelight service is a highlight of the season. Chaplain Becker will lead “Heaven and Nature Sing: A Christmas Eve Celebration for All” at 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24. It will be a time for wondering, a time for singing, a time for holding the sacred with one another leading to lighting candles hand to hand through the sanctuary singing Silent Night. It is a perfect time for new visitors and guests who wish to be with open-hearted people respectful of a variety of religious expression on the special night. It is also offered on Zoom.
On Sunday, Dec. 29, there will be “Sharing Presence, Embracing the Future,” a special relax and unwind service, at 10:45 a.m. Zoom only. An intimate, comfortable, and interactive experience of readings and music and a time of community and reflection.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Tree of Life with a special event on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Gather for an evening of music and games before ringing in the new year. The event starts at 4 p.m., with a “midnight” ball drop at 6 p.m. (London time), and closes at 6:30 p.m. This year’s theme is “Decades.” Revelers are encouraged to dress from their favorite decade. Bring a small bite appetizer or dessert to share. There will be punch and sparkling apple juice. Adult beverages will be available at the bar for a cash donation. It is family friendly. Children are welcome, but no child care will be provided.
For information and Zoom links, visit treeoflifeuu.org, call (815) 322-2464, or email office@treeoflifeuu.org.