Upcoming Events
Longest Night
The longest night of the year, December 21, has become a meaningful time to recognize the darkness of grief and loss in our lives that long for the light of Christ. The Harrisonburg Community Longest Night service brings together eight congregations (Presbyterian, Mennonite, Methodist, UCC, and Lutheran) for a service of Word, song, prayer, and Holy Communion. The worship provides an opportunity to be honest about our pain and be reminded of Christ’s light that shines into dark places. This year is Muhlenberg’s turn to host! Join in person or via livestream.
Christmas Pageant
Join us Sunday December 22 at 10:00am for “WOW! A Nativity Play” by Gwynne Watkins – a classic nativity play with a modern spin. Join an Angel who goes through the nativity story delivering the most amazing news. There will be light refreshments after the pageant.
Christmas Photos
Come early to get your photo taken by the Christmas tree! Kids will also have the opportunity to pack a special Christmas gift bag filled with quiet activities that can be done during worship and at home. Enjoy pre- service music by youth and adults from the congregation, and visit with friends old and new before worship begins at 4:00 pm.
Family Service
Join us for an energetic worship for all ages. This service includes easy-to-sing hymns, a meaningful reflection, the sharing of Holy Communion, special music from our children and youth choirs, and a candlelit Silent Night, with battery operated candles for our younger kiddos! The nursery will be staffed.
Traditional Service (In-Person and Online)
Gather for a rich liturgical service led by choir and organ. This service includes favorite Christmas carols, a full sermon, Holy Communion, beautiful anthems, and a candlelit Silent Night. The nursery will be staffed during this service, and the entire service will also be livestreamed.
Late Service
Welcome Christ in the darkness through this quiet, intimate, reflective, and joy-filled service. This service includes music led by the handbell choir and solo musicians, congregational song, a full sermon, Holy Communion, and a candlelit Silent Night. It’s a “Midnight Mass” a few hours before midnight!
Community Christmas Dinner
Muhlenberg will host our third annual Community Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day in the Muhlenberg Activities Center (MAC). Christmas should be a time for joy and celebration, but far too many in our community face loneliness and hunger on this most special day. Hosting this Community Christmas Dinner gives us the opportunity to know our neighbor. This year, we open our doors for guests at 3:00pm, with dinner served at 4:00pm. Please join us for an evening of holiday-themed games, singing, great food and fellowship. Please use this Sign-upGenius form to see all the ways you can sign up to volunteer and be a part of this event either before Christmas Day and/or on Christmas Day.
Youth Christmas Party
Middle and High School youth are invited to dinner and a Christmas party at Pastor Lauren’s house. Wear your favorite tacky Christmas sweater and join us for Christmas games, decorating cookies, and a White Elephant gift exchange. (No spending money on gifts! Your gift must be something you create or already have at home!) RSVP to Pastor Alex by December 16 if you plan to attend or have any questions.
Wednesday Evening Taize Services
Gather together for a time of contemplation, music and reflection. Music from the Taize and Ioana communities will illuminate a time of Scripture and reflection of our weekly Advent themes of faith, peace and hope. This service will also be live-streamed, so if you can’t make it in person, be sure to tune in for this beautiful service. Take a breath, set aside the rush and worry of the season, and join us for a few meditative moments of waiting and watching for the Messiah.
Christmas Caroling
When was the last time you and yours went caroling? We are looking for an enthusiastic group - young to not so young - to help spread Advent/Christmas cheer to our brothers and sisters who can’t join us in worship. Impressive singing ability is not required, just a willingness to make noise with spirit! All are welcome! We need YOU and your family - the more the merrier. Meet at 12:15 pm for a light meal in Wayland Hall before caroling!
Hanging of the Greens
All ages gather together to adorn our church with Advent and Christmas decorations, including the Chrismon tree and our congregational nativity sets. Hear the story of Santa Lucia and learn more about the symbolism of familiar Christmas decorations like wreaths, poinsettias, and holly and ivy while helping to get our space ready for Christmas!
Wednesday Evening Taize Services
Gather together for a time of contemplation, music and reflection. Music from the Taize and Ioana communities will illuminate a time of Scripture and reflection of our weekly Advent themes of faith, peace and hope. This service will also be live-streamed, so if you can’t make it in person, be sure to tune in for this beautiful service. Take a breath, set aside the rush and worry of the season, and join us for a few meditative moments of waiting and watching for the Messiah.
Property Work Day
Volunteer for our Property Work Day on Saturday, December 7th from 9:00 - 11:00am at MLC’s Property Work Day and you could win Two (2) Club Level JMU basketball tickets and reserved deck parking pass by volunteering at the volunteer Property Work Day on Saturday Dec. 7!
Wednesday Evening Taize Services
Gather together for a time of contemplation, music and reflection. Music from the Taize and Ioana communities will illuminate a time of Scripture and reflection of our weekly Advent themes of faith, peace and hope. This service will also be live-streamed, so if you can’t make it in person, be sure to tune in for this beautiful service. Take a breath, set aside the rush and worry of the season, and join us for a few meditative moments of waiting and watching for the Messiah.
Advent-ure Sunday
Join us in the MAC for Advent crafts, wreath and Chrismon making. Wreath forms and candles are provided. If you are able, please bring a breakfast dish and greenery to share. If you have questions or want more information, please email Children’s Minister Ashley Saunders.
Wednesday Evening Taize Services
Gather together for a time of contemplation, music and reflection. Music from the Taize and Ioana communities will illuminate a time of Scripture and reflection of our weekly Advent themes of faith, peace and hope. This service will also be live-streamed, so if you can’t make it in person, be sure to tune in for this beautiful service. Take a breath, set aside the rush and worry of the season, and join us for a few meditative moments of waiting and watching for the Messiah.