The December 2018 issue of Christian Standard brings together Christmas reflection, ministry encouragement, and practical church insight through a strongly seasonal theme. Its feature article, “Christmas at the Movies: A Christmas Carol,” uses Dickens’s classic story to explore repentance, redemption, generosity, and the possibility of a changed future. That same Christmas focus continues through companion pieces on It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story, as well as articles on hospitality, peace, missions, leadership, and gift-giving.
This issue serves both church leaders and everyday readers by blending devotional warmth with practical ministry content. Readers will find encouragement for leaders in difficult seasons, guidance for elders on spiritual priorities, insight into shopping trends and how they affect the church, and ideas for giving churches an international flair at Christmas. The issue also includes reflections on restoring a historic theater for church and community use, the gospel-shaped welcome described as coming with a house key, and a curated collection of Christmas wisdom for church leaders.
Across the issue, the dominant message is that Christmas is not merely sentimental or nostalgic. It is a season that calls Christians to worship, hospitality, generosity, mission, and renewed vision. For readers searching for Christmas at the Movies: A Christmas Carol, this issue offers a fuller December package of Christ-centered reflection and practical ministry help, rooted in the life of the church and the hope of the gospel.
