On Sunday, December 17, 2023, members and friends of the Spokane Stake gathered for a musical fireside service, celebrating Christmas season and this special season of light.
As attendees filed into the pews, Sister Jennifer Hicks performed prelude music on her violin accompanied by Sister Alyssa Jaderholm. Following congregational singing of “Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful” and an opening prayer, children of the Palouse Ward Primary sang the Christian hymn, “Were you there?” Sister Malerie Weed, recently called as the Stake Relief Society President, then performed a harp solo of “Silent Night” set to Claude Debussy’s Claire de Lune. Later, the attendees were favored to hear a traditional Christian song in Swahili, “Tazameni ni Pendo Gani” (translates roughly to “See what kind of love”), sung by sisters from and serving with the Regal Branch.
In the spirit of giving, Stephen Matthews, Stake Communication Director, introduced two guest speakers from local organizations that have benefited from the Church and its members in the past year. International Rescue Committee Spokane was represented by its Development Manager, Kimmie Curry (a member of the Lincoln Heights Ward), commending the efforts by so many that help refugees in the community, from monetary donations, household goods, and bus travel training. Mike Thomsen, Supply Chain Director of Second Harvest Inland Northwest, explained how the Church regularly supplies food supplies from its welfare farms and the positive impact it has on feeding families across the region.
Following the musical performances and messages of giving, the congregation sang carols all together, including Far, Far Away On Judea’s Plains,” “Once in Royal David’s City,” and “Angels We Have Heard on High.”
Sister Jennifer Hicks then introduced Rabbi Tamar Malino of Temple Beth Shalom, located west of the stake center on 30th Avenue. Rabbi Malino explained the history of Hannukah dating back to early Jerusalem, and the importance of the lighting of the Menorah, and the symbolism it represents in lighting the world. It was a wonderful gesture by the Rabbi to speak to help us understand the Jewish tradition.
Following concluding remarks by President Darrell L. Moseley, the chapel lights were dimmed and all in attendance were offered electric votive candles and sang Silent Night. It was a touching reminder of the peace that Christ brings to us as we seek and worship Him.