It was another weekend of beautiful Advent traditions at St. Philip’s as volunteers arrived in droves on Friday, December 9, to “green” the church in preparation for the much-beloved Lessons and Carols service on Sunday. With the support and guidance of the ECW and Flower Guild, parishioners hung garland and wreaths, strung lights, arranged greenery in window boxes, steamed bows, and much, much more. Our rector even got in on the action after giving the blessing, offering his eye to help line up the wreath that Stephanie Reed was hanging in front of the organ loft. Thank you so very much to all who lent their time and energy (and brought very yummy breakfast treats to share)!

View pictures from the greening of the church

The Lessons and Carols service was simply spectacular, complete with brass, strings, and all the choirs of St. Philip’s––from our three-year-old Cherubs to the adults of the St. Philip’s Choir––coming together to help tell the story of God’s plan of salvation and allow us to reflect on the wonder and beauty of Jesus Christ.

We are so grateful to all who helped with the service: our lectors, acolytes, and ushers; our talented choirs and guest musicians; and our volunteers (especially Ann Hunley Harrington!) who worked behind the scenes to do things like bundle and organize worship bulletins and fill the pew racks with visitor/newcomer cards in preparation for a packed house.

The annual Wassail Bowl reception which followed the service was another beautiful group effort, headed up by the Clark, Moore, and Gilbert families with the youth group helping serve the wassail and other drinks, keep tables tidy, and clean up afterwards. We greatly appreciate the work they all put in so that we all could eat, drink, and be merry!

View Wassail Bowl Pictures

Lastly, we are of course grateful to the Compassion Committee for preparing the cards and poinsettias for those who are especially in our hearts this season, and we are grateful to all of you who got them delivered throughout the Charleston area!

Thank you, thank you, everyone!