Shelter Island’s churches have announced plans for holiday worship, keeping in mind pandemic guidelines that govern gatherings.
Our Lady of the Isle
Christmas Masses will be held:
- Christmas Eve at 4 and 6 PM
- Christmas Day at 9:30 AM
Reservations are required for the 4 PM Christmas Eve Mass, see the church website for details. The Children’s Nativity will not take place this year, due to health concerns. Instead, the service features the husband/wife string duo of Song-A Cho and Chris Shaughnessy, who perform with the Poetica Ensemble on the East End. Selections include Christmas carols and hymns during the Mass. Their presence is sponsored by Lucy Browne, in memory of her husband, James.
Shelter Island Presbyterian Church
A candlelight service with music and guest singers will be held on Christmas Eve at 5 PM. Caroling on the outdoor walkway begins at 4:40 PM. Reservations are required for this service. Please call or text Dan at 631-872-2885.
For those who are unable to attend, a video of the service will be posted on the church website by 8 PM.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
Christmas services are planned for:
- Christmas Eve, 4 and 6 PM
- Christmas Day, 9:30 AM
Each service can safely accommodate 30 participants. Please call the church office to make your reservation for a Christmas Eve service, 631-749-0770. Depending upon the response, one of the events may be canceled with everyone attending a single Christmas Eve service. Find details at stmarysshelterisland.org.
The Christmas Eve candlelight services will feature music by church Music Director Father Ron Wickey with Sara Mundy and Michael Kendrott. The Christmas Day morning Mass will not have live music and reservations are not necessary.
In addition to the evening services on Christmas Eve, St. Mary’s will illuminate its labyrinth for those who would like a unique after-dark walk. Beginning at dusk on December 24, battery-powered candles will light the winding path. Follow the luminaries to the rear parking area. Please wear a mask, and observe social distancing. All are welcome to visit.
