Baylor Baptist presented Carols in Our Cars, Dec. 13

Baylor Baptist Church hosted a creative alternative to their annual Living Christmas Tree musical Sunday evening, Dec. 13, when they presented “Carols in Our Cars.”

This year of social precautions due to the coronavirus has led to many new ways of accomplishing purposes including this new idea. The church welcomed the community to leave their homes by driving their car, filled with family members, to the Baylor parking lot at 210 North Preston Street, just two blocks north of W. Ennis Avenue.

Car drivers were directed to tune their radio to an FM radio station that was announced upon arrival. There was two identical 30-minute programs, the first at 5 p.m., and the second following at 6 p.m.

From the cozy insides of vehicles, passengers were encouraged to sing along while Baylor musicians play and supply the vocals for traditional favorites and familiar Christmas songs.

From within the confines of cars, trucks, vans, SUV’s and recreational vehicles, attendees were free to sing as loud as desired, or, like one does when driving alone.

This was a safe and fun outing for all age groups.

Those attending were given happy songs and scriptures celebrating the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ. There was also traditional tunes like Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Silent Night and Joy to the World.

The church has presented a living Christmas tree, with singers elevated into a tall, tree-shaped loft. Along with performances at the church, they would also transport the program to in-state prisons. Limited access to the incarcerated, due to Covid-19 regulations, led to a decision to take the program beyond the four walls of Baylor Baptist to the parking lot.

David Howard is the minister of music at the church, where Chet Hensley serves as senior pastor.