Mayor, Leaders, and Clergy Come Together to Benefit the Homeless
In a harmonious blend of civic leadership, community spirit, and the Christmas message, Michigan City’s new Mayor, Angie Nelson Deuitch, is set to join forces with local clergy, community leaders, and musicians for a special presentation of “A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.” This unique event, part concert and part storytelling, is scheduled for Saturday, December 30, at 3:00 p.m. at Trinity Church on 600 Franklin Street, Michigan City.
The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, a program that narrates the Christmas story through nine lessons foretelling the Messiah’s coming and the tale of Jesus’ birth, will bring the community together and serve a noble cause. The event is dedicated to supporting the Nest Community Shelter, La Porte County’s sole temporary emergency shelter program for both men and women.
The program boasts an impressive lineup of readers, including Mayor Nelson Deuitch, Clarence Hulse (Director of Michigan City Economic Development), Maj Dale Simmons (Salvation Army), Lucia Bim-Merle (Pastoral Associate, Queen of All Saints Church), and several other community leaders and clergy members. The presiding clergy will be the Reverend Robert Antony Rhodes of Trinity Episcopal Church.
The Festival unfolds with each lesson accompanied by a traditional Christmas hymn, creating a spiritual and festive atmosphere. Attendees are invited to join in singing classic carols like “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” Silent Night, and “Joy to the World.” Featured musicians include violinist Nicolas Orbovich, soprano Dr. Gayle Pryor, and organists Dr. George Karst, Jeffrey Duszynski, Joyce Craig, and John Carrington.
Dr. George Karst, Music Director at Trinity Church, emphasizes the event’s significance as an escape from the commercialism of the season. “This is an event for anyone who wants to get away from the commercialism of the season and be refreshed by the Christmas message,” says Dr. Karst.
After the program, attendees are invited to a reception in Barker Hall at Trinity Church, fostering community connections and spreading the spirit of Christmas beyond the sanctuary.
Originating from King’s College Chapel in England as a Christmas Eve service, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols has a rich history dating back to 1918. First broadcast on the radio in 1928, it has since become a tradition broadcast to millions globally. The event’s popularity is so immense in England that people start lining up early in the morning to secure a seat.
Michigan City’s rendition of this cherished Festival promises a memorable experience for attendees and a meaningful contribution to the Nest Community Shelter, embodying the true spirit of Christmas by giving back to those in need.
