The Greater Chicago Area United Christmas Service, held on December 21st at Evanston Township High School, brought together approximately 600 participants from UBF chapters across Chicagoland, Springfield, the University of Illinois, Milwaukee, and Madison.
The service centered on the theme “The Light of Christ for a Broken World,” following a three-week Advent period in Chicago UBF dedicated to evening prayer meetings focused on worship, generous giving, and love for the hurting.
Service Highlights:
Worship and Testimonies: The service began with an orchestra prelude of “The First Noel” and corporate worship led by a combined praise team. Pastor Teddy Hembekides welcomed the gathering with a personal testimony based on Isaiah 9:6.
Focus on the Gospel: Children led the congregation in worship with a candlelight entrance and "Away in a Manger." A student drama featured 31 participants from seven campuses and the high school ministry, sharing honest struggles and finding answers in the birth of Jesus (Luke 2).
Key Message: Victor Rakotondranoro, a recent Loyola University graduate, delivered a powerful message from 1 John 3:1a, urging attendees to reflect deeply on God’s love in Christ and the privilege of becoming His children.
Christ-Centered Finale: The UBF chorus concluded the service with moving performances of “God So Loved the World” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” The service closed with a joint singing of “Go, Tell it on the Mountain” and a benediction from Pastor Bob Henkins.
Offering Dedication: A special Christmas offering was dedicated to relief work in North Korea and Muslim nations, with a portion also set aside to provide relief for the hungry in Chicago.
