Drums resounding, stars shining, music filling the air as the truth of the Christmas message was proclaimed. That was the experience for over 13,000 people during Christmas Eve at Orchard Hill. With 12 services from December 18 - 24 the birth of Jesus Christ was celebrated through pageantry, music, video and candlelight. The reason for celebration was clear as Sr. Pastor Kurt Bjorklund presented the message Good News of Great Joy?, telling of  the good news found in the life-giving message of Christmas.

The services were the culmination of hundreds of hours of individual work through the effort of hundreds of different volunteers. Musicians, technicians, cameramen, and stage assistants brought the service to life. Students ranging from middle school through college practiced for hours to make the electrifying opening drum sequence possible.  26 different elementary children also rehearsed for several days to  rotate through their roles as shepherds and kings guided to the light of the manger.

The diverse group of servants also made everything possible outside of the service. Decorators, designers, cookie servers, ushers, parkers, mangia cooks, photographers, wax removers, Kidzburgh and Welcome Center volunteers all served tirelessly to share the truth of the love and hope found in Jesus Christ. Serving at Christmas is an annual family tradition for many, including Chick Poshard who served as an usher with his wife, Pat, for every Christmas Eve service, "Our name is on the list before they even make a list. We like to greet our friends and greet new faces. Since our family is all spread out, we decided years ago to serve at every service to give others a chance to spend time with their families. It's our gift to each other."

Christmas Eve at Orchard Hill has become a Christmas tradition for thousands. Click here to see more pictures from the evening or click here if you would like to hear or download Kurt's message from the Christmas season category.