JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Lakewood Presbyterian Church in Lakewood is hosting two Christmas Eve services Thursday with modifications because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
There won’t be a choir or Christmas carols during the service and attendees must reserve a spot online beforehand.
Pastor Joy Loughridge said there are about 40 people signed up for both the 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. services. They have a maximum capacity of 75 people, which will still allow for social distancing inside the sanctuary.
“Our mission is the same even if circumstances change,” Pastor Loughridge said. “This has been a very difficult year I think for everybody. People experiencing loneliness and isolation.”
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The isolation is why she said her sermon tonight sends a message of hope. There will also be a candlelight portion of the service.
The church will also stream online to reach a larger audience. You can find a livestream of the service at here.
Other churches, like The Well at Springfield decided to move services outside on Christmas Eve. The church’s pastor said because of expected weather, they had to move it entirely to a Zoom platform.
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