On Sunday, December 14, more than 80 people braved snow and extreme cold to gather in the Nave of the Delavan Baptist Church for the annual Awana Christmas program. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., the evening blended music, storytelling, and fellowship into a celebration of the birth of Christ.

Musical Prelude

As attendees arrived, Susan Litwiller filled the sanctuary with Christmas favorites on piano, setting a warm and festive tone. She accompanied all of the songs throughout the program. Before the formal program began, Zach and Jeremiah Wheeler entertained the audience with a piano recital. Zach performed “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, followed by Jeremiah’s lively rendition of “Deck the Halls.”

The Awana Program

Awana, which stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed (from 2 Timothy 2:15), is a global children’s ministry that helps young people learn Scripture, grow in faith, and develop leadership skills through activities, games, and service. At Delavan Baptist Church, Awana members are active participants in worship and community events, and the Christmas program offered them a chance to share their talents and faith with the congregation.

The Christmas Story in Song and Symbol

The program unfolded in segments, each telling a part of the Nativity story. Awana members invited attendees to join in by approaching the altar to don props symbolizing the story being told. From the lectern, members recited poems, followed by carols that complemented each scene:

• Mary and Joseph’s arrival in Bethlehem — “Away in a Manger”
• The angels’ announcement — “Angels We Have Heard on High”
• The shepherds’ journey — “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
• The wise men’s arrival — “We Three Kings”

The program concluded with a rousing rendition of “Joy to the World”, signifying the arrival of the Christ-child. As a joyful encore, the congregation joined together in “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Message and Fellowship

Pastor Andy offered a brief but heartfelt Christmas message, reminding attendees of the hope and joy found in the season. He then invited everyone to continue the celebration with a soup dinner and treats in the fellowship hall, where warmth and conversation carried the spirit of the evening well beyond the sanctuary.