(Photos by Ruth Morrison)

Celebrating Christmas spirit downtown

The Middle School Youth Group gathered in downtown Portland on Friday, Dec. 11 for “Christmas in the City,” an opportunity to be together and experience the spirit of the season.

Led by Rev. Ruth Morrison, the group had dinner at HopeGate United Methodist Church and then walked to Monument Square for Christmas caroling and a ride in a horse-drawn wagon.

While riding through the Old Port, being pulled by Chief and Doc — two large, beautiful horses — the group continued their caroling while enjoying the lights and the festive atmosphere.

The evening continued with a visit to the Museum of Art and a viewing of N.C. Wyeth’s painting of the “Nativity.” Afterward everyone returned to HopeGate for hot chocolate and worship.