What happens at a Christmas service?

Most Christmas services include carols, the reading of the nativity story from Luke 2, a short message, and prayer. They are warm and easy to follow, and open to everyone, whether or not you attend church regularly.

How do I find a Christmas service near me?

Use the free church finder at living-bread.org/find-a-church to find a real, welcoming church near you, then check its own page or call ahead for this year's Christmas service times.

Christmas

Christmas services: the birth of Jesus, and how to find one near you

Christmas is when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, God come into the world as a child in Bethlehem. Around the world, churches open their doors wide, and everyone is welcome to come.

Christmas services are gatherings where Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, God come into the world as a child in Bethlehem. Expect carols, the reading of the nativity story from Luke, a short message, and prayer. All are welcome, whether you attend often or are coming for the first time.

What to expect at a Christmas service

Most Christmas services are warm, familiar, and easy to follow. There are carols many people already know, the reading of the nativity story, a short and hopeful message, and time to pray. You do not need to bring anything, know when to stand, or believe a certain amount. You can simply come and be welcomed.

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”
Luke 2:10-11 · King James Version

“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
John 1:14 · King James Version

Why the birth of a child changed everything

Christians believe that in Jesus, God did not stay far off but came close, was born in an ordinary place, and shared our life. That is the heart of Christmas: not only a baby in a manger, but God with us. It is good news meant for everyone, including you.

Lord Jesus, You came into the world as a child, into the ordinary and the overlooked. Come into my life too this Christmas. Let me hear the good news of great joy as though for the first time. Amen.

Find a Christmas service near you

When you are ready to be there in person, you can find a Christmas service near you. We do not list service times here, because they change every year and from one place to the next. Instead we point you to real churches close to where you are, so you can go and see for yourself.

Find a church near you

Every church shown is a real place you can visit. Check the church’s own page, or call ahead, for this year’s service times.

Keep exploring: The birth of Jesus · the Christian calendar · find a church · the gospel · ask for prayer