Residents from across Moapa Valley gathered Monday evening, Dec. 1, for the third annual Community Interfaith Christmas Program, an event that is becoming a cherished holiday tradition. Hosted this year by St. John’s Catholic Church, the program brought together families, neighbors and faith groups of varying backgrounds to celebrate the spirit of Christmas through music, scripture and community connection.

The evening opened with a warm welcome by Stake president Brandon Leavitt of the Logandale East Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He expressed that, “This evening is one of my favorite Christmas traditions. It pleases the Lord to have us all together as a community.” He spoke briefly about the symbols of Christmas, pointing to the events spoken of in the account of Christ’s birth. The star represents the star of Bethlehem appearing on the first Christmas night, additionally symbolizing that Christ is considered the light of the world and that the world is lighter because of Him. The evergreen tree symbolizes everlasting life. The candy cane reminds us of the shepherd’s crook, with Christ referred to as the Good Shepherd. The colors of red and white signify sacrifice and purity.

Leavitt concluded his remarks, saying, “May the symbols of Christmas surrounding us remind us of Christ. The season belongs to all of us.” He encouraged all to “look for the lonely and share the good news of the birth of Jesus Christ with all.”

Leavitt then introduced the opening musical number, saying, “Music unites us.” A youth choir directed by Becky Kelly, accompanied by Grant Conger and featuring young men and women from the community, set a reverent tone, singing, “A Christmas Celebration” and “Star Bright.”

The program continued with local pastors and community representatives sharing short readings and messages focused on the Christmas story as told through Old and New Testament scriptures. Lectors included Samantha Adams, Nancy Postma, Della Frank, Trace Ann Santos, Dr. Larry Moses, Monique Thompson, Margie Estrada and Kami Sue Miller. Congregational singing of Christmas hymns and a short prayer followed each individual scripture reading.

The evening concluded with remarks by Pastors Anthony and Della Frank of the Moapa Christian Church, who reminded the audience to, “Look to Christ for everything and to lift our burdens. We come to the Father through Him. Jesus went about doing great things. He is the Light of the World. Without Jesus we are in darkness, with Him we come into the light.”

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Logandale West Stake president Chad Leavitt referenced Matt. 5:16, saying, “I am feeling joyful.” He encouraged the congregants to “share, serve, love, rescue and walk” as they embark on an errand from the Lord.

Father Henry from St. John’s Catholic Church was the final speaker and reminded the congregation that “God is good,” to which the congregation replied, “All the time.”

The overarching theme of the evening was that although attendees came from different faith traditions, the heart of the season, kindness and goodwill, is universal.

Refreshments of hot cocoa and a wide variety of homemade treats were served afterward, giving community members a chance to mingle, visit and share well wishes for the season.

Event organizers expressed that “the night is not just a program; it’s a reminder that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. It brings us together in a way only Christmas can.”

As people enjoyed their refreshments outside on the chilly night, the feeling was unmistakable: the holiday season had truly begun.