‘Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow!”

Wishful thinking for us in Natchez, but these words point more toward a popular Christmas song, by the same title.

You have probably guessed it! It is time for the annual “Christmas Carol Sing-a-Long”, which will take place once again at New Covenant Church.

The date is Tuesday, Dec. 12 and the time is 6 p.m. sharp!

It is hard to believe that a year has gone by since the last time the event was held. Time flies when you are busy and having fun!

Song sheets will once again be made available, and the music is broken down into three distinct sections: novelty, popular and sacred.

You really need to be present when a room full of folks join together in singing, and one of the most popular songs of the season is “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” which is also known as simply “The Christmas Song.” It has been recorded by many artists through the years, but two of the most well-known versions were by Nat  “King” Cole with another by Mel Torme, the composer of the piece.

Of course we will sing “Santa Claus is Coming To Town” and spend a little time “…Walking in a Winter Wonderland”.

One of the most famous pieces written for the holiday season is a song that was first introduced by Gene Autry, called “ Rudolph the Red- Nosed Reindeer,” and it is always a lot of fun and brings smiles to faces!

Bing Crosby immortalized another song of the season, “ Silver Bells.” Perhaps his most famous song, “White Christmas” will follow along, for it will always be a part of Christmas.

So you can see, there will be no shortage of excellent songs to choose from that will bring a warm spot even to a Snowman‘s heart.

No such get-together would be complete without spending time with the sacred songs, pieces which reflect the true spirit of this season.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy To the World,” “Silent Night”; all beautiful works which we have grown up with. Each piece has a beautiful message that speaks to us about the birth of the Christ child. It is very moving to hear the assembly singing out these wonderful and traditional hymns.

I want to urge you to bring your family, and especially youngsters! Expose them to the joy of singing and being part of a group. I know they will have a good time.

A little magic?

Why, yes! If there are enough children gathered there, l will certainly reach deep down into my bag of tricks in order to entertain them further!

This event is free and open to the public.

However, I would encourage you to help out for a cause.

Recently, there seems to have been a rash of “dogfighting rings” that have been discovered and broken up, leaving our area animal shelters challenged with more animals to care for.

That being the case, I would encourage you to bring an item or items to help our shelters provide for these —  and other — animals.

Canned food, dry food, puppy chow, treats and such. All items collected will be split amongst the shelters in Natchez, Vidalia and Ferriday, so I ask you to be as generous as you can be.

Don’t forget the cats!

Please understand, though, that you do not have to bring a thing to attend. It is only if you have the means and are led to help out.

So, mark your calendar, call some friends, spread the news and come on down for an evening of singing and fun  at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12.

I guarantee that your spirit will be lifted and that you will have a joyous time.

“May your days be merry and bright; And may all your Christmases be white.”
Burnley Cook is a Natchez resident.