The Monday Night Prayer Group would like to invite all to a quiet, reflective service on Watch Night, New Year’s Eve, and the Eve of the Feast of the Holy Name, which will be held in the church on December 31st, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. The Monday Night Prayer Group has offered this lay-led service since December 31st, 2001. This is an opportunity for the community to gather, say prayers, reflect, and praise God for the many blessings received throughout the year. It is a time when we remember those who have died, and elevate the names of people who are suffering in mind, body, and spirit. It also allows us to greet the New Year rejoicing in the Power of the Holy Spirit, together in this holy place. Please plan to attend December 31st, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. All are welcome.
Watch Night can be traced back to December 31, 1862. It was also known as Freedom’s Eve. On that night, slaves came together in churches and private homes to await news that the Emancipation Proclamation had become law. At the stroke of midnight on January 1, 1863, all slaves in the Confederate states were declared legally free. Slaves were not freed in Texas until June 19, 1865 — Juneteenth. When the news was received in Galveston, Texas, freed slaves prayed, sang joyful songs and thanked God. Americans of African descent have gathered in churches annually on New Year’s Eve ever since, praising God for bringing them safely through another year.
