Let's make a tradition...Christmas Eve candlelight services

I will admit that my favorite time of year is Christmas, despite the overall craziness of the season. However, you may be surprised to discover that Christmas is not my most favorite day.

Actually, my favorite day is Christmas Eve.

Why, you ask? Well, I could say that the anticipation of Christmas morning invigorates me, or that I love mingling with last minute shoppers. I could say that it's easier to get my kids to listen to the true story of Christmas that day, or that I enjoy serving my family's traditional, relaxed Christmas Eve buffet. And all of that would be true...but it may not be the reason.

I believe the reason is that I look forward to - all year long - the candlelight service. To me, there is nothing like a church filled with only candlelight, a congregation lifting their voices acapella, to sing "Silent Night."

I LOVE it. It reminds me of why this really is the most beautiful season, and it helps me recall many, many memories of attending similar services with my family since I can remember. Nothing says Christmas to me quite like it.

It is a tradition for sure, one that I hope my children will someday value as much as I do.

So, in the interest of perhaps getting you to start your own candlelight tradition, here's a list of local services for 2014. If you're non-religious, it's still a great way to share the beauty and wonder of Christmas with others, to perhaps take time to breathe and recall why the holidays are special to you. And, if for some reason going to a service just isn't feasible, grab a lighter and a candle (surely, you have a candle - they're not that old-fashioned!) and do your own version (safely, of course).

And have a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday, or however you call it that brings meaning to you!

(All times listed are for December 24 unless otherwise specified. Also, please check sites to confirm a service is candlelight.)

Acts 2 United Methodist Church - 3:30, 5, & 7 pm

Coffee Creek Baptist Church - 7 pm (December 23 only)

Crossings Community Church - 12, 3, 4:30, 5, 6, 7, & 11 pm (check site for auditorium location) (6, 7, & 8 pm, December 23)

Edmond's First Baptist Church  - 6 pm

First Presbyterian - 8 pm

First United Methodist - 4, 7, & 11 pm

Holy Trinity - 3 & 11 pm

Life Church (Edmond) - 2:30, 4, 5:30, & 7 pm (6 & 7:30, December 23)

Quail Springs Baptist Church - 3:30 & 5 pm

Quail Springs United Methodist Church - 6 & 11 pm

Santa Fe Presbyterian - 5 & 11 pm

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church - 4 pm

St. Monica Catholic Church - 4, 6, & 9 pm, and midnight

Please post more services in the comments section or send times and web addresses here.