Families, friends, and community members gathered at Ashley Pond to share in the beauty and joy of Christmas. Courtesy/Freedom Church
FREEDOM CHURCH News:
Christmas Eve at Ashley Pond became a night to remember as Los Alamos residents gathered for Freedom Church’s annual Candlelight Service. The scene came alive with families coming together for a night that blended tradition, hope, and fun for all ages.
The peaceful atmosphere and warmer than usual temperatures set the stage for an evening that many say captured the heart of Christmas in Los Alamos.
Before the first song began, children played festive games and picked up small gift bags, while everyone enjoyed free hot cocoa and candy canes. The lawn by Ashley Pond stage filled with neighbors greeting each other, newcomers meeting new friends, and families coming together for a special Christmas Eve tradition.
The highlight of the night unfolded as voices rose together in classic Christmas carols and candles were lit one by one across the park. Pastor Mike Brake shared the story of the birth of Jesus and a message about hope and light that still speaks to people today.
The event brought together scientists, families, retirees, students, military members, hikers, and people who moved here from around the world. For a moment, the diversity of Los Alamos stood shoulder to shoulder, celebrating Christmas as one community. It was a snapshot of what makes Los Alamos special.
Freedom Church shared gratitude for everyone who came and helped create such a memorable night. The church believes events like this offer something more than holiday activity. They create moments of connection, belonging, and encouragement for anyone who needs a fresh sense of hope.
What’s Ahead at Freedom Church in the New Year
As Los Alamos steps into 2026, Freedom Church is preparing several opportunities for families and individuals to connect, grow, and find community:
- Jan. 4: Launch of ”Love Los Alamos” – a new teaching series focused on serving and strengthening our town.
- Jan. 18: Freedom Church celebrates its 8th birthday with a morning of worship and community fun.
- Jan. 25: Freedom Kids Winter Jam returns with inflatables, games, prizes, and activities for families.
- Feb. 1: Connect Groups begin, offering weekly spaces to build friendships and explore faith through Women’s groups, Men’s groups, Bible Study, Teen Groups, Prayer Groups, and more.
- Feb. 21: Freedom Women’s Tea, an afternoon designed to encourage, refresh, and connect the women of Los Alamos.
Freedom Church meets at 11 a.m. every Sunday and welcomes anyone looking for a place to belong or take a step toward faith. More information, photos, and updates can be found at www.FreedomLA.church and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/freedomla.church
With such a fun and community driven Christmas Eve together, Freedom Church looks forward to carrying that same spirit of hope into the new year and into the heart of Los Alamos.
Music rang out from Ashley Pond as the community sang Classic Christmas Hymns throughout the evening. Courtesy/Freedom Church
A special moment of spreading light from one community member to another. Courtesy/Freedom Church
A breathtaking sunset was the perfect backdrop for an evening of celebration at Ashley Pond. Can you spot the buck? Courtesy/Freedom Church
The joy of Christmas! Courtesy/Freedom Church
A very special moment on a very special night. Courtesy/Freedom Church
Kids enjoying fun and games in the pre-service festivities. Courtesy/Freedom Church
A big THANK YOU to all the leaders and volunteers at Freedom who made it all happen! Courtesy/Freedom Church
Taking a moment to celebrate love, joy, hope, peace, and freedom this Christmas. Courtesy/Freedom Church