By Dwight Otwell, Contributing Writer
Murphy – The truth of Jesus Christ will be presented in a unique and beautiful way three consecutive days at the 47th Annual Singing Christmas Tree at First Baptist Church of Murphy across from McDonalds on Hiwassee Street.
There will be a matinee at 4 p.m. on Saturday, which will continue at 7 p.m. each night on Sunday and Monday.
The public is welcome for these free events.
The Christmas tree is almost 30 feet high with a star pointed toward the highest part of the sanctuary. The tree is green with red ribbons and speckled with hundreds of small, white lights that appear to be tiny stars.
The best part is that planted in the tree, like Christmas ornaments, are people of all ages who sing Christmas hymns along with other songs about what Jesus Christ means to all of humanity.
Along with singers in the tree, there will be drama and the youth will dance to God’s glory. The performance will include pageantry.
The first Singing Christmas Tree at First Baptist began in 1977.
“Every year when the tree goes up, there is a new excitement in the air,” Pastor Jimmy Tanner said. “It lets us know that we have another year to praise our Savior who died for us. From the cradle, cross and crown, we have the only religion where God comes to visit us. The Lord said, ‘Remember me’ and that’s what we are doing.”
Music Director Carol Moss said the Singing Christmas Tree is a way to glorify the Lord and to give that gift of praise.
“I am excited about our opportunity,” Tanner said. “It puts that excitement back in our lives. He came to Earth for us and one day He will be coming back for us.”
The tree is a wonderful backdrop to the annual Christmas Eve candlelight service, which will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 24.
The writer is a member of First Baptist Church of Murphy.