The historic St. John’s Episcopal Church in Williamsboro is the site for a traditional service of Lessons and Carols this Sunday, Dec. 18 at 5 p.m.
The community is invited to the service, which is fashioned in the style of King’s College in Cambridge, England.
St. John’s is the oldest frame church in North Carolina, and celebrates its 250th year in 2023.
In the days before the American Revolution, Williamsboro held a prominent position in the state. At one time, it was considered the prime location for a university – which ultimately was founded in Chapel Hill.
Early members of the church included John Penn, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Although not considered an active parish, St. John’s is maintained and supported by the Diocese of North Carolina and a dedicated committee made up largely of parishioners of The Church of the Holy Innocents in Henderson and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Oxford.
These churches, as well as the former St. John’s in Henderson and St. Cyprian’s, Oxford, are offshoots of the church in Williamsboro.
The service of Lessons & Carols is one of several held at the church each year, including a Homecoming service in October and an Easter service.