Religion calendar

This Week

Candlelight Christmas Concert - Traditional and contemporary music from around the world performed by Gonzaga University’s four choral ensembles, directed by Timothy Westerhaus. The concert will feature works by composers from G.F. Handel to Ola Gielo and Will Todd, as well as works in Spanish, German, Latin and more. Two performances, Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets online at https://commerce.cashnet.com/ GUCHOIR. St. Aloysius Church, 330 E. Boone Ave. $15/online, $20/door. (509) 313-6733.

The Living Nativity - This is a drive-through event where you watch the Christmas story unfold on a CD-narrated journey to Bethlehem. You encounter Roman soldiers, Caesar, shepherds, wisemen, a bustling marketplace and live animals. Friday, 6 p.m., Amazing Grace Fellowship, 416 W. Betz Road, Cheney. Free. (509) 235-6199.

“The First Christmas” - Dessert theater setting with a 40-voice choir performing several new as well as traditional pieces; also a children’s choir will perform with the evening accented by drama vignettes. Saturday at 6 p.m. First Church of the Nazarene, 9004 N. Country Homes Blvd., Town and Country. (509) 467-8986.

Christmas for Kids - For children ages 3-12 for a day of Christmas activities. Crafts, songs, creative learning activities, cookie decorating, Christmas video, the Christmas story, and a birthday party for Jesus. Parents are invited to a closing song program at 12:20 p.m., at which time the children will sing the Christmas song they learned. Pre-register online at www.StMatthewSpokane.org or by phone. Saturday, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 6905 N. Country Homes Blvd. Free. (509) 326-3766.

Handel’s “Messiah” Concert and Community Singalong - A century-long tradition featuring full choir, chamber orchestra and soloists. Concert starts at 4 p.m. Want to sing along? There is a pre-concert rehearsal at 2:30 p.m. Please arrive by 2:15 p.m to check out a score (or bring your own) and get seated. Sunday, First Presbyterian Church , 318 S. Cedar St. Free. (509) 747-1058.

A Clear Vision of Jesus’ Birth - A DVD Advent series with Kenneth E. Bailey. during the adult education hour. Sunday, Dec. 21, 8:45 a.m., Northwood Presbyterian Church, 6721 N. Monroe St., Town and Country. Free. (509) 328-2012.

Community Hymns Concerts - Sunday, 3 p.m., First Church of the Nazarene, 9004 N. Country Homes Blvd., Town and Country. Free. (509) 534-8080.

Moran United Methodist Church’s Children’s Christmas Program - After the program, enjoy refreshments in the Fellowship Hall with a special appearance by Santa Claus. Free pictures will be taken with Santa and treats provided. Sunday, 3 p.m., Moran United Methodist Church, 3601 E. 65th Ave. Free. (509) 448-7102.

“Light for the Journey” Holiday Concert - Spokane Area Youth Choirs and special music guests perform holiday favorites. SAYC offers choral music training to students ages 7-18. Sunday, 3 p.m., Westminster Congregational Church of Christ, 411 S. Washington St. $8. (509) 624-7992.

Decolores Handbell Choir - Sunday, 4 p.m., Spokane Valley Baptist Church, 1222 S. McDonald Road, Spokane Valley. Free. (509) 924-1234.

Christmas Concert - Featuring His Song, a Christian men’s choral group. Sunday, 7:30 p.m., Plymouth Congregational Church, 1502 W. Eighth Ave. Free. (509) 838-8667.

Advent Reflection - Held Tuesdays, through Dec. 23, from 2-2:30 p.m. Let soft music support your intimacy with God and prepare for the miracle and mystery of Christmas. Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, 1926 W. Chelan Ave. (509) 326-1252.

Christmas Cantata - Enjoy “O Holy Night” at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Foothills Community Church, 11102 N. Forker Road. (509) 926-4971.

“The Gift of Wait Time” - Episcopal missionary Carolyn Terry will continue a spiritual discussion and prayer event for people of all denominations. “The Gift of Wait Time” will discuss how to learn the value of waiting in the midst of a fast service culture and, while we wait for the coming of Christ in Advent, we will ponder the gift that wait time gives us. Reservations requested. Wednesday, 9-11 a.m., Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, 6910 S. Ben Burr Road. $10/person. (509) 448-1224, ext. 102.

Advent Soup Suppers - The Advent devotional will focus on “Not A Silent Night: Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem” by Adam Hamilton presented by the Rev. Barbara Caviezel. Children’s class and crafts after the meal. The whole family is welcome in making this special season a joyous time. Wednesday, 6-7:45 p.m., Moran United Methodist Church, 3601 E. 65th Ave., Fellowship Hall. Free. (509) 448-8522.

Advent Compline Service - Following worship, wine, juice, crackers, and cheese will be served for fellowship. Wednesday, 7 p.m., St. Marks Lutheran Church, 316 E. 24th Ave. Free. (509) 747-6677.