By Josh Haller
I recently had the opportunity to join 60 church members of all ages and go caroling through the village of East Rochester. This was my first time caroling, and it was an experience I will never forget.
I never pictured caroling the way I do now. When I used to think about caroling, I imagined movies and holiday joy. But this was different. This time, we went out with the intention of spreading the joy we have in Jesus Christ.
Our church is expanding in outreach, and this was a perfect opportunity to step into the community and bring the joy of Christ to the world. Scripture tells us that whatever we do, we are to do it for the glory of God—and that is exactly what we did.
Going out in a large group with the church was amazing. It was incredible to see how good God is and how much of an impact He is making in our lives. Stepping out of our comfort zones to do something for His glory and for His Kingdom is always a blessing. This is an opportunity we don’t get every day, and given the season we’re in, it made it even more special.
I was blessed to use my voice to sing to our neighbors and then, afterward, to go up to their doors and invite those who listened to join us at church. I had the opportunity to talk with them, see how they were doing, and ask how I could intercede for them in prayer. Some said no—they were all set—and some said yes. Even when someone said no, I still prayed quietly as I walked away, because we all need prayer.
The last two houses we visited both accepted prayer. At the first house, a husband and wife answered the door. They told us how much they enjoyed the song and how sweet it was that we were doing this. It opened the door to share what the Lord has done and what He is still doing. The Holy Spirit led me to ask how I could pray for them, and they told me about their nephew who is currently battling cancer.
We serve a God who heals—a God who is powerful, loving, and just. It was no coincidence that we ended up at that house. When I finished praying, the woman was in tears, which brought me to tears as well. It reminded me how deeply I trust a God who listens and answers prayers according to His will. If we ask anything in His name, He will do it.
As I walked away, the group was already singing at the next house. It sounded so beautiful. I arrived just as they finished, walked up to the door, and explained what we were doing and why. The Holy Spirit placed a sense of urgency on my heart. After talking for a moment, I asked how I could pray for them. They said, “Pray for the world.”
We prayed for the world, and during that prayer, the Lord placed unsaved family members on my heart. I prayed for their family members to come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior. I also prayed that the Lord would use them to shine his light through them. When we finished, they were grateful and thankful.
Standing there on a very cold night—holding hands with someone I had never met before—praying to a God I have never seen— is one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced.
I encourage you to join with our church the next time we go out into the village. You never know what kind of experience the Lord has waiting for you when you take that step of obedience.
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After caroling, our church family gathered for a joyful Christmas celebration filled with fellowship, creativity, and holiday cheer. Around 40 – 50 people attended the event, making it a wonderful evening of togetherness across all ages.
Families enjoyed decorating Christmas cookies, sharing sweet treats and yummy food. Children also worked on a meaningful manger ornament craft, reflecting on the true reason for the season.
It was a special evening of joining together to spread joy and celebrate Christ’s birth in the Agape Hall and on the streets of East Rochester. It was a heartwarming reminder of the beauty of community, worship, and celebrating the season together.
