A labor of love...

First Baptist Church of Blacksburg will present its 18th annual Singing Christmas Tree on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2:30 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 15, and Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Wanting to present the story of Christmas in a way no one else could was nothing more than a dream in 1991 for First Baptist Church of Blacksburg members Vincent Tharpe and Linda Meetze.

Instead of letting that dream fall into the recesses of their minds, the two decided to get to work and with a few pieces of wood and a box of nails they created a tradition in which other Cherokee County churches could participate.

Singers from at least 10 local churches will take part in the 18th annual Singing Christmas Tree on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at First Baptist in Blacksburg.

"This is one of the most wonderful things a church can do for our community," said Frank Hammett of Goucher Baptist Church in Gaffney. "I'm so blessed to be part of this group."

When Tharpe and Meetze decided to construct the first tree 17 years ago, wood, costumes and other materials were limited, making things rather difficult for the two dreamers. Tharpe designed the first structure, constructed it in his yard, then in the sanctuary. Costumes and sets were sparse at first, but through the years more elaborate staging and costumes, many made by ladies of the church, were added.

With time comes progress and in 2002 a number of churches combined to purchase a new steel structure, ensuring the Singing Tree will be around for years to come.

Much time and preparation have gone into this year's presentation, with cast members working and rehearsing since September. In some cases, members are preparing for another Christmas program in addition to the Singing Tree.

"I received such a blessing from attending the North Spartanburg Singing Tree that I decided to sing in this one," said Dawn Harris of Rock Springs Baptist Church in Blacksburg. "This is my fifth year and I love the fellowship with the other churches. It's really neat."

"I would not miss the opportunity to witness to others through the message of music we present," said Ross Bratton of Park Hills Baptist Church in Gaffney.

The 18th Singing Christmas Tree will be presented on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2:30 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 15, and Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. at Blacksburg First Baptist Church.

Fifteen minutes prior to each performance, a prelude will be presented by the church's children's choir, the Youth Tone Chimes, the Master's Quartet and Wayne and Joy Brown.