First Baptist brings back Living Christmas Tree

Shepherds, angels and choir members raised their voices in song at the 2008 Living Christmas Tree program held over the weekend at First Baptist Church on Depot Street.
(T-G Photo by Jaime Welsh)

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The program was performed as a gift to the Shelbyville community, according to the church.

The musical drama, A Christmas Prayer, directed by Regan Kibbe and Zach Kirby, told a story of hope, love and the eternal gift of salvation received only by those who choose to follow Christ.

J. Daniel Smith arranged and orchestrated the production, which featured the First Baptist Church Celebration Choir and Orchestra.

"It was so beautiful ... I really enjoyed it," said audience member Carl Wayne Cook.

What made the Living Christmas Tree program so unique was, well, the tree.

The huge Christmas tree began at the stage and didn't stop until it reached the ceiling. It held 72 choir members during the program.

The cast of A Christmas Prayer included Terry Cooper (Philip), Sarah Olson (Jenny), Barry Cooper (Dad), Kimberly Tune (Carla), Trevin Wax (Nathan), Megan Floyd (Child), Tiffany Cooper (Rita), Mark Lile (Carter), Kay Rose (Church Lady), and Terry Chapman (Church Greeter).

Philip, the central character, is a young man struggling with the loss of his mother when he was a child, and coming to grips with his tattered relationship with his father.

He is also a lost soul wandering alone without the salvation of Christ ... a gift he is almost desperate not to receive.

Philip is persuaded by his sister to come home for Christmas, attend the church Christmas production -- of which she is a part -- and witness the miraculous change in their now-saved father.

Reluctantly, Philip agrees -- and thus begins his long journey home. However, he soon discovers the trip is going to be anything but smooth sailing.

Philip encounters many road blocks, such as flight delays, rental car problems, and even going to the wrong church. He meets several interesting characters on the way, all of whom share their faith with him.

After finally reaching his destination, Philip comes to the realization that he cannot make it through life alone and that everything happens for a reason. He reconciles with his estranged father and accepts the gift of salvation.

The Living Christmas Tree, which was brought back this year after several years' hiatus, was deemed a success by audience members. It reminded those attending that the Christmas season is not about presents, but about hope, love and Christian faith.