Communities of faith present Celebrate Christmas radio broadcast

Image of cutter and horses from the Marsden Kemp fonds, Archives of Ontario

Fourteen County communities of Faith have partnered with 99.3 County FM radio to present the sixth annual “Celebrate Christmas” broadcast set for Christmas eve, and Christmas day.

County FM began the annual partnering broadcast during the pandemic years and it now known as Celebrate Christmas.

“It started as a lifeline during COVID, became a treasure during the 2022 state of emergency/winter storm, and now continues to unite us and serve those who cannot easily travel during the winter,” said Craig Mills, General Manager of 99.3 county FM.

While many people enjoy and are able to attend services in person, or stream live services, some cannot because they lack transportation, have health issues, or don’t have access to online technology.

The COVID-19 lock down prompted Rev. Duggan to approach 99.3 County FM to propose a program of Christmas scripture readings and carols to be broadcast on the radio on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Participating individuals and organizations have changed over the years, but many have been with the program from the outset. This Christmas the broadcast features contributions from 14 local communities of faith.

Celebrate Christmas answers the question: What do the faithful do when “there’s no room at the inn?”

This year, United Church minister Rev. Aaron Miechkota is co-managing the project with the support of 99.3 County FM Production Lead, Gage Broderick who helps produce and bring the various Celebrate Christmas elements together.

Celebrate Christmas is a curated combination of scripture, carols, and Christmas greetings on behalf of the participating congregations.

Celebrate Christmas airs exclusively on 99.3 County FM on Wednesday, Dec. 24 at 8 p.m. and will repeat on Thursday, Dec. 25 at noon.

2025 participants include:
Andrea Calvert Spiritual Direction
Bethany Christian Reformed
Bloomfield United
Consecon United
Cressy Glenora United Church
Friendship United
HOPE Centre
Prince Edward Ministerial Association
Rednersville-Albury Community Church
South Bay United Church
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church
St. Gregory The Great Roman Catholic Church
St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church
St. Philip’s Anglican Church