Build holiday worship themes around Charles Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol,” then create a labyrinth on the front lawn with 500 Christmas tree lights.

This is just part of what the Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren in Elgin has done to make Christmas 2016 a delight for members and guests.

The worship themes, developed by Dr. Marcia McFee, worship consultant for the United Methodist Church, incorporate bells, hymns, carols, candles, choirs, piano, organ, dramatic readings and beautifully written text — all center on the moving, sometimes dark, and always dramatic, elements of the classic story.

The tale is perfect for this Advent season because it counters the sadness and suffering of poverty and greed with the hope and love and joyful generosity of Christmas.

McFee’s adaptation is strengthened and undergirded by a song from the Disney adaptation of Dicken’s classic titled with Tiny Tim’s immortal words, “God Bless Us Everyone.” There is the 10-foot Christmas tree rising up in the chancel decorated in red and gold.

One of the congregation’s greatest strengths is its choirs, which are an essential part of each worship. On Sunday, Dec. 18, the children’s pageant, “New Star,” told by two stars looking down, will take the congregation back to the stable and that day of portent and mystery.

On Christmas Eve, the congregation will gather at 8 p.m. for its annual candlelighting service. Christmas morning falls on a Sunday this year, and members will meet at 10 a.m. for fellowship and 10:30 a.m. for a final Christmas moment in a shortened service that will feature candles, carols, cookies, and cocoa.

It was during the planning for all this Advent activity that two congregation members, John and Lynne Kern, were inspired to make the labyrinth of Christmas lights on the front lawn.

Drive by the church, located where Highland Avenue makes a Y with Larkin Avenue, between 5 and 8 p.m. on any night and see the lights. Better still, park your car and walk this Christmas labyrinth.

The church is at 783 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin. Worship is at 9:30 a.m., with church school at 11 a.m. For details, call (847) 741-5124 or visit www.hacob.org.