This Christmas Eve Candlelight Service takes your congregation to the hills and homes of Bethlehem on the night that Jesus was born. Monologs by local shepherds and their families reflect on the hopes and expectations of the common people who populated that quiet, historic town. Prayers and suggested hymns combine with traditional Christmas readings and the drama of candlelight to create a spectacular and reverent Christmas Eve worship event.Staging and costuming can be simple or complex. Includes reading parts for up to eight older youth and adults, and walk-on parts as desired.Jim Schackel is well known for his innovative worship services and devotional articles. His devotions have appeared in My Devotions, The Home Altar, and Light for Today. He is also the author of O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, also available from CSS Publishing Company. Rev. Schackel now resides in Salem, Oregon.