Christians from across Central Florida did not let the rise of COVID-19 cases deter them from celebrating Christmas Mass. 

Celebrating Christ’s Birthday

In a report with WESH, congregations from across all denominations gathered for worship services. Church members sang hymns and listened to the Gospel. 

Charles Myers told the news outlet that Christmas was celebrating the birthday of the 'Big Boss.' Myers is the pastor of Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist. 

He added that all the churches were throwing parties to celebrate the birthday of Christ. 

The pastor leads a community that is rich in civil rights history. He explained that he preached messages of helping the poor and rising against oppression. 

Myers added that he melded his preaching style with that of the Gospel. 

He told the news outlet that God transforms humanity from the inside out. The pastor stressed that Christmas was an inside job explaining that God became human to save everyone. 

Lessons and Carols

Another church in Orlando explained their Christmas tradition. The Reformation Lutheran Orlando Church met in two groups. 

The first group was a family service filled with songs, carols, and a story about the Birth of Christ. The event was called "Lesson and Carols." 

The pastor cited verses from Isaiah's first chapter, as well as quotes from "The Grinch who stole Christmas." 

The church also hosted a candlelight service for its older congregants. 

Gospel of Light

Joy Metropolitan Community Church’s pastor preached about light and its significance during their Christmas service. She used a variety of props, such as a candle and a flashlight.

The pastor's message focused on being true to oneself. Many congregants said that the sermon's theme hit close to home. The church is supportive of the LGBTQ community. 

Board Member LeAnn Hamlin called the church one of the most loving and affirming churches she has encountered. She added that the community was welcoming when she first moved to Orlando. 

Hamlin added that she came to know the church after the wake of the Pulse shooting in 2016. She stressed that the church was her family. 

According to the church's Facebook post, they are calling on donations for its Love Wins Through Joy Fundraiser. The funds raised during the event will benefit low-income members of the church community. 

Emerging Stronger After COVID-19

According to the news outlet, the different churches made adjustments in their services during the coronavirus pandemic. 

The churches also offered online services for their members who could not join them in person. They also had modified communion services to avoid the spreading of germs. 

St. John the Baptist Parish required its congregants to wear masks. 

Myers compared the current year to the year when Christ was born. He said that both were times when it was chaotic and the corrupt ruled the nations. 

The pastor stressed that he had a strong congregation. He said that they did not let the fear of the coronavirus stop them from worshipping. 

He added that his church members were also careful of their safety. The pastor said that fellowship was important for his congregation. 

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