First United Methodist Church (UMC), 29 E. Walnut St., Lancaster, will host Christmas Eve candlelight services on Sunday, Dec. 24. Services will take place at 4, 7 and 10 p.m. The theme will be "A Celestial Christmas Celebration," inspired by the church's annual Epic Easter Eve Worship Concerts. This year's Christmas Eve gatherings will include an orchestra, choirs, soloists, projected visuals, and scenery along with the traditional candlelight and singing of "Silent Night."

John Darrenkamp will be the featured soloist at the 4 and 10 p.m. services. Darrenkamp, a member of First UMC, has performed with the New York City Opera for nine years and the Metropolitan Opera for 22 years.

Luke Harnish will be the featured soloist at the 7 p.m. service. Harnish, also a member of First UMC, is establishing himself as a performer of opera, oratorio, and recital repertoire.

The orchestra and Chancel Choir will be under the direction of Brian Norcross, and the visuals and scenery will be by Brian Lehman.

Parking is available in a lot behind the building. The 4 and 7 p.m. services will also be livestreamed; visit http://www.engagegodfirst.org to learn more. Families are welcome. Nursery care will be provided at the 4 and 7 p.m. services. Children will be provided with battery-operated candles.

The vision of First United Methodist Church is "to be a central hub of Christian ministry in Lancaster County and beyond." The church offers worship experiences throughout the year along with ministries that serve the community. One of the ministries located at First UMC is Anchor Lancaster, which provides a free breakfast and showers every weekday. Other organizations on-site include recovery groups, AARP Tax-Aide, and Discovery Corner Preschool.

Worship services are held every Sunday in person at 8:15, 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. and online at 10:45 a.m. For more information about the church, visit the aforementioned website or call 717-394-7231.