THE ANCHORAGE MORAVIAN CHURCH CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLE SERVICE IS SCHEDULED FOR December 24, 2022, 6pm, at 3512 Robin Street, Anchorage, Alaska. Most Traditional Moravian congregations celebrate Christmas Eve with a candle service using lighted wax tapers or Moravian Christmas candles. The AncMC is not part of the Unitas Fratrum, but under the World Fellowship of Moravian Revival Churches. A number of the Moravian Revival Churches retain the custom of the Candle Service.The booklet “Customs and Practices of the Moravian Church” by Adelaide L. Fries indicates the first use of candles occurred on Christmas Eve at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania from a diary entry in 1756. In North Carolina the Christmas candles were used for the first time in the children’s lovefeasts of Bethabara and Bethania in 1762. In all of these services the emphasis was laid on the love of Jesus, which led Him to come as the Babe of Bethlehem, prepared to atone for mankind, and the response which should be a flame of love in the heart of every child. Today it stresses rather the light which came into the world with the birth of Christ and the response which every Christian should make by witnessing for Him.
Christmas eve at the Anchorage Moravian Church is a festive time on our Church Calendar. After worship, “raising of the candle” and sharing prayers of commitment to God, Christmas treat bags are given out to the children.
Certainly, we are happy you are with us to celebrate this special time with others from around the community of Anchorage, Alaska! May this day be a time of joyous celebration for all Christians who love the Christ-child and know him intimately as Lord and Savior!