To answer why “Bah Humbug!” will no longer be bellowed loudly throughout the streets of London town, you’ll just have to join us at the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Greensboro on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 5:30 p.m. to find out.
Charles Dickens, an early devotee of social justice in Victorian England, wrote “A Christmas Carol” in 1842 to help open the eyes of the rich and powerful to the plight of the downtrodden poor and powerless. It is the early days of the Industrial Revolution. Technological, scientific, and industrial innovations abounded. But with those advancements came heavy social costs … the dehumanization of work, pollution, egregious child labor practices, with low pay for all, resulting in widespread poverty.
It was these conditions that spurred Charles Dickens on.
In his story, Ebenezer Scrooge is the symbol of all that was wrong in 1840s England. And what happens to Mr. Scrooge is the subject of the First Presbyterian Church’s production.
Before the church’s “playlet” begins, singers outside the church in Victorian costume will entertain arriving attendees with carols familiar to people in the 1840s.
Greeters in Victorian dress will welcome all into the church.
Inside the church, you will see what it may have been like in the 1840s, with much of the lighting provided by candles.
There will be minimal use of electric lighting to enhance the experience. And many congregants will be dressed in period clothing. Before and after the playlet, all will join in the singing of Christmas carols loved when “A Christmas Carol” was written and still loved today. The evening will be a highlight of this year’s Christmas season.
All are welcome to attend. A free-will offering will be made to benefit the Greene County Food Pantry.
The First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro is located at 117 S. Main St. (next to the Post Office) in downtown Greensboro. Sunday services at 11 a.m., preceded by scripture study at 9:45 a.m.