The tradition of hanging the greens, rooted in ancient civilizations, once celebrated the winter solstice. As those cultures converted to Christianity, the tradition of hanging greens to decorate their homes and churches at Christmas continued.

Hanging of the Greens will take place in Wiscasset at the First Congregational Church on the first Sunday in Advent, Nov. 27. Greens in the shape of a star, heart, cross and circle will be presented during the 10 a.m. service, accompanied by the reading of Bible passages that highlight the meaning of the special greenery. Sarah Whitfield will be lay preacher during Advent.

Following the annual Town Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 3, the church will be open for hot chocolate and cookies in Fellowship Hall.

At the Advent workshop held on Dec. 4, children and adults will have the opportunity to make a gingerbread house or Christmas ornaments, decorate cookies or enjoy a holiday appetizer demonstration and tasting. The workshop will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. in Fellowship Hall.

A special children’s Christmas program will take place at the 10 a.m. service on Dec. 11.

The choir of the First Congregational Church will present Christmas music at the 10 a.m. service on Dec. 18. “Hodie Christus Natus Es” by Pieterszoon Sweelinck, a sixteenth century Dutch organist and composer, and selections from Handel’s “Messiah” will be featured.

The traditional candlelight service with the Christmas message and familiar carols will be held on Christmas Eve at 7 p.m., followed by a Christmas Day service of lessons and carols, at 10 a.m.

All services and events are open to the public. For more information, call 882-7544 or visit the church’s website at fccw@myfairpoint.org