ENGLEWOOD, N.J.—Elmore Hall in the First Presbyterian Church of Englewood (FPCE) was the setting for “Cookies and Carols,” an annual festive Christmas celebration held Friday, Dec. 6.
The event, attended by over 100 parishioners and guests, was led by Rev. Richard Hong, Director of Family Ministries Felicia Arrigoitia, and the church’s music director, David Macfarlane.
“Cookies and Carols has been a First Presbyterian Church of Englewood tradition for decades, originally known as ‘Carols around The Table,’” said Arrigoitia. “Six years ago, it became called ‘Carols and Cookies,’ and the number of participants has increased every year.”
This year’s fest was enjoyed by many families and people of all ages. Droves of children gathered around craft tables to decorate sugar cookies with delicious
toppings. The youngsters skipped around the hall proudly showing and eating their culinary creations that they had decked out with gobs of icing, sprinkles, glitter sugar, candy canes and chocolate chips.
Children also painted pomander balls to take home and perfume the air with the scent of citrus and cloves.
Cookies and Carols also featured a delicious buffet dinner.
After dinner, Macfarlane played piano and led everyone in traditional Christmas carols, including, “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Joy to the World,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” and “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas.”
The words to all the songs were conveniently displayed on multiple screens around the room so that everyone could join in.
A highlight of the evening was the cookie exchange. Members of the congregation had been invited to bring a dozen or so of their favorite homemade Christmas cookies and brownies to swap for baked items made by fellow church members.
Cookies and Carols elicited praise from everyone. Audrey and Sten Svensson, a couple married 61 years, came dressed in red to match the Christmas theme, and they were delighted with the festive atmosphere.
“This is such a fun event!” Audrey Svensson said.
Eunice Dartey, who had brought her friend, Debra Lee Withers, said, “This is the first year we’ve come here, and it is wonderful! I love seeing the children play and everyone is so friendly in this church. It feels like we’ve all been friends forever.”
Jennifer Elly and her family come to the FPCE every week from West Orange. “It’s the best church anywhere!”
