Uptown Friday Night Photos

Habitat’s Evening Complete
Before the soup was served Friday night, diners at Soup for Shelter took time to select a bowl. Tables at the Westerville Senior Center were lined with hundreds of handcrafted ceramic bowls, made by Columbus Academy students and included with each ticket. Proceeds benefited Habitat for Humanity projects in Delaware and Union counties.




Back in Uptown, the Church of the Messiah opened its Live Nativity, drawing families who paused to watch volunteers portray the nativity story outdoors. Live animals, often a highlight for younger visitors, were part of the simple walk-through experience, which saw steady foot traffic as people moved between other Uptown activities.
Later in the evening, lantern-carrying guides led groups on the Progressive Christmas Concert, which featured performances at the Church of the Master, the Church of the Messiah, and First Presbyterian. Choirs and musicians from Grace Evangelical Lutheran and Central College Presbyterian also participated. Much of the event’s charm came during the short walks between churches as concert-goers chatted before settling into each sanctuary. Proceeds from the concert also supported Habitat for Humanity.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
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