Everyone in the community is invited to attend First Baptist Church for weekly Advent services and a special Christmas Eve service based on the themes of Hope, Love, Joy and Peace called “The Gifts of Christmas,” at 9:30 a.m. on Sundays beginning Dec. 1.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or so the old song goes. Yet it doesn’t always feel that way — the hectic holiday schedule, family pressures, and emotional wounds are just a few reasons. But First Baptist Church sees the Christmas season as one that offers a unique opportunity to experience God’s love and grace in the midst of real life. That is the reason for “The Gifts of Christmas” celebration — to experience what the true gifts of Christmas mean for our lives today.

“Christmas is a favorite time of year for many people, but our lives can be so filled with busyness that we can forget to slow down and actually enjoy it. Christmas is also an important time to reconnect with our faith. Our families need to understand why we celebrate Christmas,” said Pastor Mark Massaro.

In a season often marked by frenzied busyness, it is also an opportunity to set aside time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. These weekly services are designed to help us place our focus on a far greater story than our own — the story of God’s redeeming love for our world.

With cookies, coffee, and cocoa after each service, your favorite carols, the weekly lighting of the Advent wreath and a free Christmas devotional book, “The Gifts of Christmas,” Advent celebration is the perfect opportunity for families throughout the community to come together to celebrate Christmas and find the true joy in the season.

First Baptist Church is located at 876 Central Ave. in Dunkirk. It offers convenient parking and easy wheelchair access along with a nursery and children’s programs. For more information, visit www.DunkirkBaptist.org/Christmas or call 366-6634.