After around 23 years of absence from the community, the Living Christmas Tree returned for a special, single-year performance at First Baptist Church, FBC. The presentation offered 2 performances on Sunday, December 8, and a dress rehearsal open to the public on Saturday, December 7.
Directed by Brad Butler at the church from 1992 to 2001 and again at Faith Baptist Church in Sapulpa during the 2000s and early 2010s, the Living Christmas Tree once again found itself under his direction in its muchanticipated return this year. Around 50 people sang in the choir for this year’s presentations.
Around 50 people attended the dress rehearsal on Saturday. On Sunday, First Baptist Church Reverend D.J. Carney reported that 347 people attended the 3 p.m. presentation with 198 additional attendees in the audience for the 6 p.m. performance.
Sharon, who wished to withhold her last name, attended performances in Bristow and Sapulpa in years past. Making the effort to attend this year’s special presentation, she drove an hour to take in the festive choral music aboard the “beautiful tree”, noting that her favorite part is “celebrating Jesus through the joyful music and brightness of light.” Like Sharon, Chris S. attended performances in the 90s and returned to celebrate Christmas with the LCT this year. He most enjoyed “seeing the choir come together [during divisive and uncertain times]. It’s hope when it looks dark.”
Lana Liggett, wife of former FBC Reverend Bill Liggett, once again participated in the choir with Bill. Of the opportunity, she said, “To be a part of the tree this year is surreal. I never thought I would get to do this again, and I am so thankful that the church and Brad and his family have made this a possibility. The tree was always such a kick-off to the Christmas season and a very visible way to share Christ’s coming with this awesome community. Wonderful memories!”Like sentiments were shared by choir members Kim Tankersley, Elizabeth Monzingo, Ray Tankersley, Sherry Barnes, Cyndy Ellis, and Mavis Glisson.
Newcomers shared their love of worship and making new friends within the choir. Georgia Smith said, “I am thankful and excited to be a part of this. For me, singing in a choir is the best form of worship.” Victoria Williams and Brandie Waters echoed, respectively saying “I feel blessed to participate and share the joy of Christmas” and “I am blessed and thankful to be able to join.”
The audience, including children, seemed to enjoy the music and cherish the opportunity to praise the Lord as they respectfully and quietly sang, tapped, clapped, and nodded in agreement with the choir throughout the performances.