Christmas is often one of the most joyous times of the year as many celebrate with family and friends; but for some, it can be one of the loneliest.
To help those who are in pain or suffering, Canyon Hills Presbyterian Church will offer “The Comfort of Christmas” service at 5 p.m. on Dec. 18 in the church Fellowship Hall. And the community is invited to attend.
This special service, which is in the tradition of Blue Christmas or Longest Night services, will inspire with music, worship and reflection, giving hope and comfort in the midst of hardships and challenges.
The Rev. Melissa Smith will lead the service of comfort and joy and offer a place for quite reflection and peace.
For additional information, visit canyonhillspc.org. The church is on Fairmont Boulevard at Santa Ana Canyon Road. All are welcome.
Festival Center hosts Holiday Spectacular
In case you are looking for something to do with your kids this weekend, you might want to check out the Holiday Spectacular at the Festival Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. There is no charge to attend.
This holiday event will include crafts, face painting, balloon art, Santa photo opportunities and train rides, all of which take place in the shopping center’s parking lot adjacent to Hobby Lobby. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Library Friends start new year
The Friends of Canyon Hills Library recently revealed its new logo, which incorporates its previous one with the group’s book connection.
The nonprofit library support group also recently held elections for its new board. Starting their terms in November were Karen Lockwood, re-elected for a second term; Carolyn Anderson and Amy Talaginis, co-vice presidents; Barbara Wahlbrink, secretary; Louise Fry re-elected as Membership and re-appointed as Book Sales Chair; Peggy Markson, treasurer and also continues as Publicity Chair; Betsy Kasten, Gina Wilkenson and Donna Clark, co-chairs for Special Sale events.
Membership in the Friends group is open to individuals and/or businesses in the community. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of every other month beginning in January at 9:30 a.m., in the multipurpose room at the Canyon Hills branch.
For additional information about the nonprofit support group as well as upcoming events such as book sales, visit the Friends of Canyon Hills Library Facebook page.
Christmas Eve with Canyon Hills Presbyterian
Canyon Hills Presbyterian will offer two worship services on Christmas Eve. And all are welcome to attend.
A 3 p.m., an all-family contemporary service will include music by Godsend, the church’s contemporary rock band. The 5 p.m. worship will be a “Candlelight and Communion” service, including music from the church’s Chancel Choir.
The Rev. Melissa Smith leads both services, which are held in the church sanctuary. All worshippers are welcome.
Be active at Oak Canyon
The Oak Canyon Nature Center has several programs for both adults and kids throughout the year that might be especially helpful for families during Christmas break.
Beginner archery instruction is currently available for ages 10 and older every Saturday with two class times available: one from 10 to 11 a.m., and another from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
These open range archery classes teach basic skills required to point, aim and shoot an arrow, the proper way to draw a bow and review range safety. All equipment is provided and bow weights for the class are 10-pound bows.
Fun activities for kids ages 2 to 5 are also offered. The “Tails and Trails” is a parent-and-me program offered from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Thursday.
It takes place inside the Nature Center’s “cozy” museum and includes story-time, hands-on activity, animal interaction as well as a themed hike. Each class has a different theme.
Pre-registration is required for archery and the children’s programs and cost $10.
For additional information contact the Nature Center at 714-998-8380. Register at Anaheim.net.
Sharon Hlapcich writes about events and happenings in the Anaheim Hills area. Reach her by phone (714-998-4604 or e-mail ([email protected]).