LAKEPORT, Calif. – Come celebrate a candlelight Christmas Eve at historic St. John's Episcopal Church at 10 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24.

The church is located at 1190 N. Forbes, Lakeport.

Set in one of Lake County's few remaining Victorian public buildings, the service begins with traditional instrumental music by organist Melvin Taylor, accompanied by Eleanor Cook on violin and Clovis Lewis on cello.

Midnight Mass at 10:30 p.m. starts with the processional “O Come, All Ye Faithful," and continues with a blessing of the Christmas Crèche.

The Rev. James K. Knutsen is celebrant and preacher assisted by St. John's Parish Priest Friar Leo M. Joseph, O.S.F., and the Reverend Deacon Bryan Duffty.

The service includes Christmas carols, sacred scripture readings from the King James Bible, ancient rituals of Holy Communion in traditional language from the Book of Common Prayer, and concludes with the singing of “Silent Night” by the congregation holding lighted candles.

A reception in Carey Hall follows, with warm beverages and holiday treats. Members of the congregation are encouraged to dress in Victorian attire for the occasion. All are welcome.

The presence and ministry of  The Episcopal Church in Lake County since 1877, St. John’s building was recognized as a point of historical interest in Lake County by the State of California Historical Resources Commission in 1989. This year, it earned an Award of Recognition for its restoration and preservation by the California Heritage Council, California Trust for Historic Preservation.

Regular Sunday services are at 10 a.m., 1190 N. Forbes St., at the corner of Clearlake Avenue in Lakeport.

For further information, please call Fr. Leo at 707-349-6563 or see the St. John’s Web site www.saintjohnslakeport.org .