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FREE TRAINING Top 10 Christmas Videos The best ways to communicate your message this Christmas. by Ryan Hamm | posted December 20, 2007

Christmas is one of the most important times of the year for churchesfamilies show up together, grudges against churches are momentarily forgotten, and visitors stream in. But it's often so difficult to figure out the best way to establish a mood that will not only serve the non-regulars, but also will serve the indigenous culture that has naturally arisen in the church body. We think videos are a good way to start establishing any mood in your services. Here are 10 of our favorite Christmas videos, in no particular order:
A Child is Born
Sometimes, it's good to be reminded exactly why we celebrate Christmas. This little animated vignette from Igniter Media Group tells the Christmas story in its entiretythe circumstances in which Jesus was born and the details of the Nativity, culminating into a powerful statement about Christ's sacrifice for us. It's perfect for any settingkids will love the animation, and adults will appreciate the powerful message.
Advent Conspiracy Liberia 1
Have you ever thought about how much money the church community spends on gifts? Now think about the stuff in your closet from Christmases past that you've never really used. This video from the Work of the People encourages us all to reflect on ways we can help people all over the world instead of buying more stuff that we don't need. The best part of the video (and its accompanying series): It's free!
Christmas Morph Loop
It's easy to look at where we are today and forget that Christianity has had a long and important history of contributing to the arts. But here's a great video to remind usand to give us a great metaphor of the Incarnation in the process. This loop from Beamer Films morphs various classical paintings, changing and becoming something new with each moment.
A Christmas Response
How do we respond to Christmas? Floodgate Productions turns this question on its head in this powerful video that looks at one response to the very first Christmas: The response of Mary. Listen to this dramatic rendition of Mary's words. Encourage your congregation with her powerful words and response to the gospel.
Christmas Song Countdown
This is, by far, the cheesiest video on this list. And that's exactly what makes it great. Not only is the countdown stuffed full of groan-worthy puns and ridiculous jokes, it's done so in the style of those pre-movie trivia games. And all of those qualities make this clip from Worship Films really fun. After all, if you can't be kitschy at Christmas, when can you be?
Jesus Christ, Hope of Glory
This video uses beautiful animation and a soaring choral soundtrack to tell the story of Christmas. Poignant and powerful, it's a perfect way to take a step back from the chaos and the craziness so often associated with the holiday. Use this clip from The Visual Church in your service to create an atmosphere of reverence and reflection.
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