David Lewis

On October 24, 1909, Hunters Presbyterian Church was dedicated and, according to the Pioneers of the Columbia (1998), the first congregation only had 19 people on the rolls. Don Larsen, who became a member in 1956, believes that there has been a Christmas program every year since the church was dedicated; it is one of the many traditions that still takes place today.

Larsen fondly recalls that many local families in the Hunters area were instrumental in having the Christmas program and many family members still recount memories passed down of the early programs.

The Hunters Presbyterian Church Christmas program is always outside of regular worship times, generally in mid-afternoon, and open to the public. There are refreshments and gift bags available to all who attend. They do not promise a performance from Carnegie Hall or The New York Philharmonic, but what they do promise is a wonderful afternoon of great Christmas music, funny story telling and a Christmas carol singalong that would make the old music show, “Sing along with Mitch,” very envious.

If Spokane or Colville is too far to drive, the program director, Donna Jo Smith, invites you to come and experience many magical Christmas traditions right in Hunters. You will leave filled with Christmas joy as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The event is open to anyone who wants to experience: “Let there be Christmas.”

This performance is free and will take place Sunday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m. at Hunters Presbyterian Church, located at 4959 WA 25 in downtown Hunters.