Niagara Church Celebrates 75th Candlelight Service

The Niagara United Mennonite Church (NUMC) is celebrating its 75th Candlelight Service this Christmas, a cherished tradition that has persisted since 1948, with only a single interruption in 2020 due to COVID-19. Worship Coordinator Rachael Peters and longtime attendees highlight the significant role of music in the service, led by director John Rempel, who has contributed to its continuity and evolution. In Berkeley, a century ago, the community experienced festive celebrations marked by carol singers, charitable meals for families in need, and a cold Christmas weather. While Victorian-era Christmas carols reflected the pop culture of their time, they transitioned from religious contexts to popular street caroling. Bob Dylan’s Christmas in the Heart album, now 15 years old, adds a unique musical flavor to the holiday season, while the Kingston Trio's earlier Christmas album marked a notable moment in their career despite not reaching the same heights as their previous successes.