Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/842022
THE LONGEST NIGHT - SATB 2 It is a divine gift that our Christmas celebrations are given to us in the deep of winter. Our sacred traditions have evolved wisely to grant us a winter's grace during these times when nights are longer and darkness deeper. When winter drops her shroud of shadows over the world, even the light of day seems filtered and fragile. Our spirits can sometimes bend at the weight of life and its harsh realities. The heaviness of grief, the challenges of illness and aging, the loss of a treasured relationship, these are just a few of the real life challenges that hold our hearts captive during this season of the year. As Christmas approaches, the whole world seems to be alive with anticipation. Yet, against this cheerful backdrop of sparkling lights and festive music, there are many for whom this time is a tearful reminder of the harshness of life. While all around are the strains of "JOY TO THE WORLD," there are hearts breaking with despair and loss. And so, we gather at this sacred time to worship, acknowledging our sorrow and embracing our grief: "Lord, we are wounded and weary. Our hearts are an empty manger waiting for a promise. Our scars long for healing and comfort. Tonight, we gather not to forget our pain but to remember it with honesty, and to seek Your beauty in our brokenness, and to reclaim the light that is found only in Your grace." Throughout the following narrations, we have given performance notes in an effort to help enhance your presentation of THE LONGEST NIGHT. These notes, indicated in italics, provide an opportunity for you to incorporate candles, a bell of remembrance, and a "Giving Tree" into your service. Of course, the work may be presented in its entirety without the ideas provided in the following pages. We encourage you to be creative in your presentation of THE LONGEST NIGHT. Feel free to omit, alter, or replace any of our suggestions. These notes are merely starting places for you as you craft the service that will best minister to the needs of your church and community. THE LONGEST NIGHT FOREWORD PERFORMANCE NOTES For Preview Only