While the historic Salem Community Church north of Paynesville has been closed for more than 35 years, the church will open its doors for two Christmas programs Dec. 20. The old-fashioned country Christmas program, “Jesus, God’s Precious Gift,” will be presented twice this year because it has become so popular. The evening will begin with reindeer sleigh rides from 3-4 p.m., and the program will be performed at 4:30 and again at 7:30 p.m. The program features the reading and re-enactment of the Christmas story, complete with Christmas carols. After each program, guests will be treated to homemade Christmas cookies, apple cider, and bags of candy and nuts. The cookbook “Family Traditions: Recipes and Memories from Salem” will be available for $10. Guests are encouraged to bring Christmas gifts, toys or canned goods to be placed under the tree and distributed to area families in need. A free-will offering will be taken for the Salem Church Restoration fund. For more information, directions, or in case of bad weather, call (320) 243-4005 or (320) 243-1774.
