Christmas at St. James
The Christmas season at St. James is always a special time, filled with opportunities to gather, celebrate, and reflect on the true meaning of Christ’s birth. This year, our community came together in so many beautiful ways, creating memories that will last well beyond the season.
We kicked off the festivities with a Gingerbread House Family Party, hosted by our amazing Parent Squad. Families gathered to decorate gingerbread houses alongside friends, parents, and children, filling the room with laughter, creativity, and plenty of holiday cheer. It was a fun and festive evening that helped everyone get into the Christmas spirit together.
We also celebrated Christmasfest, when the church hosted a fun-filled day of crafts and Christmas cheer. Families enjoyed music, treats, activities, and gift-making as they spent time together celebrating the season. Santa even paid a special visit, adding to the excitement and joy of the day. Christmasfest was a wonderful opportunity for fellowship, fun, and festive celebration for all ages.
Our parents also enjoyed a well-deserved night out at the Parent Holiday Social, hosted by Parent Squad at Benchmark Chicago. This special evening gave parents the chance to relax, connect, and celebrate the season together in a joyful and welcoming atmosphere.
One of the most meaningful traditions of the season took place this past Sunday during the 8:30 a.m. service at St. James, when our Early Childhood students performed a Living Nativity. This cherished yearly tradition beautifully reminds us of the story of Jesus’ birth. It was especially heartwarming to see so many of our newest students experience the magic of the Living Nativity for the very first time.
During the final week before Christmas break, our incredible parents showed their appreciation for our faculty and staff by hosting a Teacher Breakfast and Cookie Grab. Parents came together early one morning to prepare a delicious breakfast, and later that day dropped off two dozen homemade cookies each. The cookies were arranged so teachers could fill a box with a variety of treats to enjoy. It was a thoughtful and generous way to thank our teachers for all they do—our parents truly are amazing!
Our students also performed their annual Christmas Program, featuring students in grades 1–8, who performed at the Advent service last night. The program was a beautiful and moving presentation, as our students shared the joy of Christmas and the powerful story of Jesus coming to earth to take on our sin and shame, giving us the gift of salvation. Their hard work and dedication shone through, blessing everyone in attendance.
As we celebrate all that God has done among us this season, we invite you, your family, and friends to join us for worship as we rejoice in the birth of our Savior. Christmas Eve Candlelight services will be held at St. James (2050 N Fremont) as we gather by candlelight to hear again the good news of Christ’s coming at 5pm and 7pm. We will also celebrate the joy of Christmas morning together at our Christmas Day service at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome as we come before the manger to receive God’s gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation through Jesus Christ.
We are deeply grateful for the families, students, teachers, and staff who make St. James such a special community. May the joy of Christ’s birth continue to fill our hearts as we celebrate together.
See pictures below!
