By Mary O’KEEFE

For the sixth year, on Saturday the congregation at St. Luke’s of the Mountains Episcopal Church will be holding its annual Christmas Jam and Community Sing-a-long.

All ages are invited to sing their favorite holiday song. It is a fun night of old-fashioned holiday fun where everyone is welcome.

The event will take place at the historic old stone St. Luke’s Church. The setting seems perfect for community gathering as the church is built from La Crescenta rocks. It was in 1924 when St. Luke’s opened its doors. The church was the dream, and design, of famous artist S. Seymour Thomas, who painted hundreds of portraits including three of President Woodrow Wilson. Thomas was the driving force in bringing an Episcopal Church to La Crescenta. He expressed his dream in the best way he knew how – through his art.

Once the land was donated, Thomas sat across the street from the location at Rosemont Avenue and Foothill Boulevard and painted the design of the church. He then oversaw the building of the sanctuary, even choosing the rocks from the local mountains that would form the church. Sadler Hall, which includes a stage, was built later as the congregation expanded. 

The sing-a-long in this historic setting will be led by Joey Buttler and The St. Luke’s Band. Donna Machado, bishop’s warden, said she likes the event.

“I get to sing my favorite Christmas songs and all are in a festive mood – not to mention the cookies,” she said. Machado said everyone will receive a song book and there will be cookies and hot chocolate served.

“And before and after [the sing-a-long] we will gather in Sadler Hall and have Santa photos taken,” Machado added.

St. Luke’s of the Mountains Episcopal Church is located at 2563 Foothill Blvd. The parking lot is on Cross Street. The sing-a-long begins at 3 p.m. on Dec. 15.

  Mary Okeefe