[music playing]
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Good morning, Lord.
I have the same request as yesterday,
maybe with a little more urgency.
Give me the strength to keep this place from falling
apart for dad, my family and everyone
in this town who needs you.
And Lord, if you could help me figure out a way
to pay for a new roof before Christmas Eve service,
super helpful.
Hey, Uncle Daniel.
Good morning, Tommy.
I'm not complaining as I love seeing you as often as we do,
but I'm fairly sure your mother has cereal at your house.
That stuff is not edible.
I am a growing boy.
I need sugar and something that tastes like actual food.
Is your mom picking you up for school or am I taking you?
I left her a note saying I'd be here,
eating a sufficient breakfast.
Good placement on the eye roll, by the way.
Oh, well, hallelujah, I have finally
impressed my teenage nephew.
Have you looked in on your grandfather yet?
No need to check on me.
I'm fine.
I've got my son and my grandson, and I woke up breathing.
God is good.
How's the church roof doing?
About as good as your hip.
It's seen better days, but it's hanging in there.
Well, at least my hip isn't leaking on the congregation.
Hello.
I come bearing gifts of the season, in cookie form.
Enjoy.
Really, Dad, for breakfast?
What...
So whether you eat or drink, whatever you do,
do all to the glory of God.
First Corinthians, 10:31.
You're pulling out all the stops, I see.
Once a pastor, always a pastor.
It's OK.
He can have these.
They're a new recipe.
It's fat free, gluten free, sugar free, and dairy free.
What's left?
Air.
Tommy.
These aren't Christmas cookies, Mom.
They're...
They're not good.
They're not good at all.
Really?
Oh, um, well...
OK, well, they could use a little finessing.
FRANK: A little?
You are my daughter and I love and support you.
But these are terrible.
NICOLE: But they're... yeah, OK.
They're terrible.
You don't have to eat them.
But we should get going, Kiddo.
It's your last day before break.
I can be late.
NICOLE: Well, I can't.
So let's get you to school and me to work.
Come on.
Chop chop.
Well, if I had a car, I wouldn't have to worry
about anyone driving me.
Just saying.
Christmas is coming.
Yeah, not getting a car for Christmas, Bud.
Let's go.
Hey, Mike and I heard that there might not be
a Christmas festival this year.
Something about insurance costs?
It'll work.
We always find a way.
I was hoping you'd say that.
I don't think we've ever not had one.
And thanks for taking care of Dad.
Stop.
[laughter]
We're family, it's what we do.
Well, thank you.
Bye, Dad.
Love you.
You know, I may have parts that
are not working at full capacity, but I can still hear,
you know?
If I ever get to be a burden on you...
Dad, we have talked about this.
You're stuck with me.
Well, if you insist, I'll stay.
But we do have other options to discuss.
It would be the last thing I'd want to do, but...
We're not selling the church.
FRANK: Maybe if you look at it like it's
not so much about the church and more about family.
We are all struggling.
We've got my medical bills, insurance
premiums we can hardly handle.
And the house needing almost as many repairs as the church.
DANIEL: You have always told us that God will provide.
Why can't we still trust in that?
We can.
But sometimes God provides through difficult decisions,
Danny.
I need to get to work.
We'll get through this, Dad.
We always do.
Love you.
[music playing]
RICHARD: Well, the success in other areas,
I believe now is the perfect time
to forge into Midnight Clear.
Forgive me for sounding pessimistic, Mr. Shaw,
but I was the one that was there last year.
There's no way they'll all agree to sell.
And that's why I'm sending in our top acquisition specialist.
This town represents our biggest opportunity yet.
Prime real estate, desperate sellers, and
hopefully, with Hilary overseeing the deal,
minimal resistance.
Hilary.
OK, so as Richard stated, I'll start with the properties that
have shown interest, solidify those deals while talking
to the more stubborn holdouts.
The more I can bring on board to sell,
the easier it's going to be to convince the others that this is
the best plan for our future.
OK?
Thank you, everyone.
That will be all.
[music playing]
Wow.
Love the Christmas spirit.
Some of us are busy executives,
and as much as we like Christmas,
we like to close deals more.
Was a good speech today.
If you want, I could take you to dinner,
show you my notes on the town owners.
Could help you when you get there.
HILARY: I appreciate the offer, but
I think a fresh set of eyes and a new approach
might be the answer.
I'll call you if I have any questions when I get there.
OK?
Thanks, though.
I'll leave you to it then.
MAN: [clears throat]
Brandon, I told you, I'm all good.
I can see that.
Prepping?
Yes.
This could be a massive win for the company.
If you play it right, for you.
I appreciate that.
I do have a question, though.
Have you seen this church?
It's right in the middle of the town, and, I don't know,
I think it could be considered historic.
RICHARD: OK?
And?
Well, look at it.
I'm not sure taking it down and following our standard operation
will work in Midnight Clear.
Hilary, business is business.
That church sits on prime real estate.
It's the best point in town.
It has perfect visibility from the highway.
Look, you work around it or through it.
I don't care what you choose, just get it done.
I will.
But maybe our community development initiative
could work here.
Hilary, that community development initiative
is there to make us money.
That revitalization stuff is simply good marketing.
Yeah, the church does seem like it's in pretty bad shape.
Well, even better.
Easy to justify demolition for safety reasons.
What's our cover story?
No story needed here.
We're offering these people more money than they've
ever seen in their life.
Most will jump at the chance.
And the holdouts?
Eminent domain, if necessary.
And the county's already interested in the increased tax
revenue.
I need those contracts signed by Christmas Eve.
That's... that's just a few weeks away.
Then I suggest you tell them whatever it is they need to hear
to get the job done on time.
Understood?
Mm-hmm.
RICHARD: Good.
Oh, Raquel and I look forward to seeing you at Christmas dinner.
Merry Christmas to you too, Dad.
[music playing]
HILARY: Hello.
Is anyone here?
Oh, hi.
Excuse me. Hi.
Hi.
What can I do for you?
I'm Hilary Shaw from Shaw Development.
I just wanted to get a few minutes of your time
and talk to you about your property.
Not interested.
Oh, you didn't even listen to what I have to say.
I don't need to.
You said you're from a development company, right?
This church has been in my family for four generations.
We've developed.
OK, mister...
It's pastor.
Pastor Porter.
Pastor Porter, I completely understand your attachment,
but I'm here to completely revitalize your community.
There will be wonderful opportunities
for retail, community centers, jobs for local residents,
and affordable housing.
Affordable for who?
You or me?
May I ask, what do you know about Midnight Clear,
aside from charts and zoning?
You know how many folks live in the senior home,
which the church funds, or how many people you'd be displacing?
I should warn you, Ms. Shaw, one of my finer traits
is that I'm able to see through people
who don't tell the whole truth.
Any chance you'd like to tell me the real plan?
I just told you.
You told me what you think I want to hear.
Pastor Porter, I'm just trying to help your community.
Clearly, you're struggling economically.
Almost half your main street is closed,
your church is literally falling down, and...
And you think your money can solve all our problems?
Yeah, I think money solves a lot of things,
like leaking roofs and medical bills.
I do my homework.
Ms. Shaw, there's some things that can't be bought.
Community is one of them.
Faith is another.
Well, what could our community and faith
if your buildings collapse?
This church in this community, we are not for sale.
Everything is, it's just a matter
of finding the right price.
Some things have value that can't be
measured in dollars, Ms. Shaw.
Now, if you please excuse me, I have work to do.
[music playing]
Hi.
Welcome to the Evergreen Inn.
I'm Nicole.
Can I get you checked in?
Yeah, I think so.
Oh, you must be admiring our Christmas decorations.
Isn't it wonderful?
We really like to go all out here.
Yeah, you certainly do.
The reservation's under Shaw.
Oh, sure.
Great.
You've come at a perfect time of year.
We have so many wonderful Christmas events,
so hopefully you're in town for a while to enjoy them.
No, I won't be staying long.
Oh, can I ask what brings you to Midnight Clear?
Just doing some business.
NICOLE: And what business are you in?
Are you going to be meeting with locals around here?
I'm so sorry.
I've had a really long trip.
I just want to get checked in.
No problem.
No problem at all.
Oh, wow.
[music playing]
OK.
Insanity.
OK, let's see what we're working with here.
[music playing]
So you're the one staying at the Evergreen Inn?
Hear you're asking questions about the town.
Well...
BETTY: Oh, honey.
In a town this size, a sneeze on Main Street gets you a.
God bless you before you're even done sneezing.
Name is Betty Collins.
This is my diner.
I'm Hilary Shaw.
It's very nice to meet you.
So what brings a big city girl to our little old Midnight.
Clear?
Oh, I've been serving pie and coffee a long time.
I can spot city folk from a country mile.
And those shoes look like they cost
more than most folks here make in months, maybe years,
maybe more.
Well, I'm here to assess the area for potential development
opportunities, to revitalize.
That's a fancy word for tearing
things down so you can build them back up again, isn't it?
No, not necessarily.
Sometimes it means preserving what matters while creating
new opportunities.
And who decides what matters?
Wow.
This coffee is excellent.
That's the same blend my folks served when
they opened this place in 1964.
My dad always said a town needs three things to survive.
A place to pray, a place to learn, and a place to gather.
We already had a church and a school, but no place for folks
to just be.
So they opened this.
That's a lovely story.
BETTY: Oh, it's not a story.
It's family.
It's tradition.
Every booth in here has seen marriage
proposals and business deals, celebrations, and heartache.
I mean, just think about those things
before you start telling folks to walk away from all they know.
[music playing]
I should go.
Insurance has denied the claim for my physical therapy
sessions.
What's the reason this time?
They say it wasn't medically necessary.
Tell that to my hip.
How much was it?
$550.
[sighs] It's OK, Dad, I'll figure it out.
With what?
You haven't taken a salary from the church in over six months.
I can't ask people to tithe more when they're barely
making ends meet themselves.
We're three months behind on the house payment,
and the church needs a new roof that's going to cost $15,000.
I still know all of that, too.
You have taught me that faith and prayer can change things.
Anything.
I agree.
Both powerful weapons.
But given our current situation...
She's got to be kidding.
What are you talking about?
This lady was at the church earlier.
She's back again.
Maybe she's a tourist.
She's not.
How do you know?
Tourists don't come to Midnight Clear, Dad.
Not anymore.
Not to take pictures of empty storefronts
and churches falling down.
Plus, I talked to her.
I know exactly who she is.
I know you do, Son.
I can't imagine what you're up to,
but whatever it is, thanks in advance
for what you're working on.
Can I help you with something?
It's nice to see you again, Pastor.
I didn't realize anyone would be here.
Well, I do work here, which you know.
All due respect, we've already discussed where we both stand.
I think this is one of those moments we agree to disagree.
Pastor Porter, I think we got off
on the wrong foot this morning.
I'd like to start again.
I'm Hilary Shaw.
[music playing]
Daniel Porter.
And you're snooping around because?
I wasn't snooping.
OK, fine, I was snooping.
Look, we specialize in community revitalization projects.
Community revitalization.
Right.
Historical buildings can be the centerpieces
of our development projects.
Development projects?
OK.
Modern housing, commercial spaces, job creation.
We can bring prosperity back to towns like yours.
Towns like mine.
Pastor, is there a reason why you keep repeating
everything I'm saying?
Or are you just trying to get me to leave?
I'm not leaving.
I know you care deeply about this town,
but the question is whether caring is enough to save it.
Save it from who?
You?
From economic collapse.
From becoming a town for sale.
This community has survived the Great Depression,
two world wars, economic recession, and
natural disasters.
Know how we've done it?
By sticking together and relying on faith.
Can I give you some advice, Ms. Shaw?
If you want to help this town, get to know us,
realize what we value before you decide what we need.
That's what I'm trying to do.
No, you are trying to evaluate our assets and liabilities.
There's a difference... a big one.
[music playing]
Whatever's happening at the office is not my fault.
BRANDON (ON PHONE): I beg to differ.
No one is planning the Christmas party.
Well, I'll be lucky if I can make
it home before Christmas Eve.
Honestly, if I can't convince these people to sell,
I might as well not come home because my dad's
going to disown me.
As an employee or daughter?
HILARY (ON PHONE): Both.
That bad?
HILARY (ON PHONE): Yeah, it's not good.
BRANDON (ON PHONE): How long have you been there?
I think less than 24 hours.
I'm sorry.
Did you think that you could seal
up the town in less than a day?
Obviously.
BRANDON (ON PHONE): You're good, but no one is that good.
So who have you all talked to so far?
I had a brief intro with the owner of the diner.
I spoke to the woman who runs the inn here.
And... oh, right.
The pastor.
Yeah, it didn't go well with him either time.
You've visited him twice already?
HILARY (ON PHONE): Mm-hmm.
The first time wasn't ideal.
And then the second time just, hoo, went downhill from there.
So leave the pastor for now.
Talk to everybody else.
That's what Daniel said.
I mean, the... the pastor.
OK, well, thanks, Brandon.
I appreciate all your help.
Anytime.
You know this.
All right, let's get to know this town.
[music playing]
All I'm saying is, whatever this company
offers could be a chance to get folks back on track.
We're two weeks from Christmas, and
half our businesses have already informed me
they can't make January rent.
How are we going to fund the Christmas festival?
We already know the church can't help out anymore.
The church never let the town down.
It's not going to start now.
You say that, Frank, but things are not
the same as they used to be.
NICOLE: It's true.
Bookings at the Inn are down 50% from this time last year.
I hate to say it, but if that company offers enough to pay off
debts, I'm afraid that people are going
to take the money and move.
NICOLE: I know.
I know, but we can't just go selling our properties
to the highest bidder.
WOMAN 1: Nicole, I hear you.
We all do.
But families are leaving.
If we don't do something to change things,
there's not going to be enough left of us
to keep this town working.
Sorry to interrupt.
I'm Hilary Shaw from
right.
You already know who I am.
We were just talking about you, and your company.
Noted.
Thank you for your honesty, Mister...
Frank Porter.
I'm Daniel's father.
HILARY: Oh.
I believe you two have already met.
Indeed we have.
I was hoping to get a coffee to go.
Coming right up.
We're just decorating cookies for the Christmas festival.
If we can even have it.
Feel free to help out if you like.
Oh, I don't think I'd be very good company.
Thank you though.
Does anyone have any recommendations
for a business I can visit?
I was hoping to get to know the town while I'm here.
I got a place.
If anyone has any questions, I'll be
staying at the Evergreen Inn.
Happy to talk one on one.
OK?
Thank you.
Bye, Dad.
Break's over.
Let's get back to these cookies.
FRANK: Thank you for taking the time.
Thank you, sir, for lending me some of yours.
It's Frank.
May I call you Hilary?
Mm-hmm.
You know, Hilary, I was in the church
when you and Daniel had your first meeting.
I'm not sure I'd call it a meeting.
It felt more like round one.
Isn't that what business meetings sometimes are?
Your son is a very strong-willed man.
[laughs] Yeah.
Don't I know it.
I was hoping I'd see you today.
And I was hoping the same thing about you.
I'm Hilary Shaw.
Oh.
Oh, she's a friend of Daniel's.
I asked her to join me here for a bit
of Midnight Clear Christmas history.
Good to meet you.
Have a seat.
I sure remember this day.
Christmas, 1968.
My father was the pastor then.
We had a brutal snowstorm that lasted for days,
and the church roof couldn't support all the snow,
and it collapsed.
HILARY: That's terrible.
On Christmas Eve?
FRANK: Yep.
Hours before our annual service.
The sanctuary was covered in snow and broken beams.
Tell her what happened next, Frank.
Well, seeing as how the first church at Midnight Clear
collapsed, it struck a bit of a chord with the community.
We turned to see the entire town walking down.
Main Street with shovels and... and... and tools and tarps
and you name it.
And by 6:30, we had a makeshift sanctuary.
And that Christmas Eve service was the most beautiful
this town has ever seen.
WOMAN 2: That's when I met my late husband.
He was helping clear the snow, and I was making
hot cocoa for the workers.
So how long has the church been the center
of all your Christmases?
Since the very beginning.
It's beautiful, all these families, all these Christmases.
WOMAN 2: Ms. Shaw, Would you like to share some
of your family's traditions?
Oh, no.
No, I just... I'd rather hear about Midnight Clear.
I don't know if you'll still be in town, Hilary,
but Christmas Eve here is nothing like you've ever seen.
After the candlelight service, the whole town gathers
to sing Christmas carols.
And then we walk down Main Street
to the diner for hot cider and cocoa,
and Betty's famous Christmas cookies.
OK.
Thank you for your time.
I'm just... I have to go.
I have another meeting.
I'm really busy while I'm here.
Thank you.
[music playing]
Hi, dad.
How's everything going?
HILARY (ON PHONE): It's OK.
A little complicated.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): How so?
This isn't just another failing small town, Dad.
They have a strong community.
They all start off as strong communities, Hilary.
I don't know.
Midnight Clear feels different.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): Well, the good news is you've only
been there for a short while.
True.
But I think there are some properties worth preserving.
We're in the business of building a future,
not maintaining a past.
Right.
I know, but what if the past is worth maintaining?
Please do not get sidetracked.
Remember why you're there.
Yes, to evaluate business opportunities.
No.
To close a business deal.
OK.
Hear me out.
What if... what if we could find a way
to develop what's here without destroying
what makes it special?
What makes it special is the location and the price point.
Everything else is just sentiment.
Well, what if sentiment matters, Dad?
Not to our investors.
Hilary, I need you focused.
Can you finish this job or should I send somebody who can?
I can handle it.
Good.
Now, make contact with the key players tomorrow.
Start with the pastor, since he's the biggest obstacle
of the church property.
I don't think the pastor is going to agree to that.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): That church is the centerpiece
to the whole development.
Without it, the project doesn't work.
Get him to sign off on this.
[music playing]
Good morning, Pastor Porter.
Ms. Shaw.
I wanted to bring you a coffee.
I was hoping that this could be a peace offering.
Why?
Are we at war?
It's actually thoughtful.
Thank you.
You sound surprised.
Well, my dad seems to be warming to you,
but I'm still trying to figure you out.
Oh, I have Christmas cookies.
Betty insisted when she knew that the second coffee was
for you.
Very, very popular, Pastor Porter.
Daniel, please.
HILARY: It's Hilary then.
Good morning, ladies.
[distant chatter]
How long until the whole town knows
that you're sharing cookies and coffee with the enemy?
Oh, they already know.
So what are you doing here?
Fixing a pew.
You need any help?
You know how to fix pews?
No, but I know how to hold things
while someone else fixes them.
OK.
Hold here.
[music playing]
Morning, Grandpa.
What are you doing?
Just watching over things.
What things?
I don't see anything.
That's because from where you are,
you're only focused on one thing.
We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen.
For what is seen is temporary, and what is unseen is heavenly.
Grandpa, I'm on Christmas break, which
means I don't want to learn.
Your uncle's in the church with Ms. Shaw.
I believe he is finally starting to let his guard down.
As is she.
How do you know that?
By looking not at what is in front of our eyes, but what
is unseen, 2 Corinthians 4:18.
Look it up.
Grandpa, I love you, but I told you and Uncle D,
I'm not interested in the family business.
We'll see.
Oh.
Hey, Uncle D. I'm heading out to go work at the tree farm now.
Thanks, Tommy.
Your grandfather OK?
He was staring out a window when I left.
Tommy, this is Ms. Shaw.
TOMMY: Right.
Grandpa said something about letting guards down.
Then he read me some scripture I did not understand.
So you're that development lady, huh?
Guilty as charged.
You here to offer us a good deal?
Your uncle has been very strong-willed at refusing.
Yeah, he... he gets like that.
Anyways, I gotta go.
Nice meeting you, Ms. Shaw.
Bye.
Sorry about that.
Seems like a good kid.
Oh, he is
mostly.
Well, I'll let you get back to work.
If you want, I...
I could show you around town later.
Spots the tourists don't see.
I'm not exactly a tourist, am I?
No, you are most definitely not.
But I'd still be willing to show you.
I'd like that.
Pick you up in an hour?
See you soon.
[music playing]
Oh, sorry.
I'm so sorry.
No, that's OK.
Are you OK?
I'm fine.
Are you off to a big meeting or something?
Not exactly.
Well, I really hope you're enjoying the day.
I... I mean, I know you're here on business.
Do you... do you know where I could buy a pair of boots
for, like, walking in the snow?
I didn't pack strategically.
I'm... I have nothing.
OK, well, what shoe size are you?
9?
Yeah?
Yeah.
Yeah, I... I can drop a pair off in a few.
Nicole, right?
Yeah.
Thank you.
My pleasure.
- OK, I'll see you later. - Have a good day.
Bye.
[music playing]
What?
Nothing.
I was just wondering when you had time to go shopping.
Maybe I brought these with me.
Nicole, she lent me a few things.
Do I still look like I don't belong?
Just the opposite.
Come on.
[music playing]
Sorry, I don't...
I don't mean to be rude, but am I missing something?
This... this just looks like a field covered in snow.
[laughs] That's what it is now.
But spring through fall, it's a community garden.
Every family in town gets a plot,
and folks share what they grow.
The Abbotts plant extra tomatoes because the Joneses love them
but can't get theirs to ripen.
The Browns plants mostly all of our lettuce.
And Nicole plants all of our flowers way over there.
So what do people do in the winter?
DANIEL: Plan for next year.
My point is, is we all look out for each other.
Count on one another.
I don't think I've ever had anyone count on me like that.
DANIEL: Your father does, doesn't he?
He counts on my successes.
It's not the same.
What do you count on?
My job, my reputation, and my ability to get things done.
DANIEL: That sounds lonely.
It is.
Anyway, where to next?
[music playing]
After you.
This is all that's left of the first church that was
built here in Midnight Clear.
Despite efforts to preserve it, it just wasn't safe anymore.
So Dad built another one.
But folks around here keep its memory alive.
In the summer, people gather here for plays, live music,
even outdoor weddings.
And next week, if we can pull it off,
it'll be host to the Christmas tidings and tree celebration.
Why wouldn't you be able to pull it off?
Costs are up and our budget is down.
Two, please.
The committee's meeting in the morning to go over finances.
Thank you.
Thanks.
Thank you for today.
Well, thank you for really seeing it like we do.
Yeah, it's... it's growing on me.
So what's her name?
Sorry?
Oh, your wife.
I... sorry, I just assumed you were married.
You had a ring on.
- Oh... - Sorry.
It's none of my business.
I didn't mean to...
No, no, no, no.
It's OK.
I was married.
My wife, she... she passed away.
I'm so sorry.
It's OK.
It was a long time ago.
That's... that's the end of the tour.
We should probably get going.
Sorry if I said something about your wife.
I did not mean to...
Not at all.
Yeah, I should get back to work anyway, I just...
OK, I have everything.
Yeah, I'm going walk.
You sure?
Yeah.
Thanks for today, Daniel.
Dad, what's going on in here?
I had Tommy bring these down.
These are our Christmas tree ornaments.
We haven't put up a tree since Beth.
And it's time.
This year, we are going to have an all
out holly jolly Christmas.
Well, we can't decorate tonight, though.
We don't have a tree.
It's too late to start tonight, though.
We'll decorate tomorrow.
Hilary's pretty.
Dad, don't.
She is here to buy the church.
Looks to me like she might be here to fall in love with it.
I hope you're right.
I have been praying for an answer to our problem.
Maybe she's it.
And what if she's the problem?
That's not up to you, is it?
That's up to God.
[laughs]
WOMAN 1: I'll be quick.
Bottom line is we need $3,500 to cover the insurance and permits.
Without it, there's no tidings and trees celebration.
There has to be something we can do.
How about a bake sale?
I'll donate and organize the whole town.
Betty, we'd need to sell 1,000 overpriced pies to raise
the kind of money we need.
Sorry.
Are you closed?
We... we
nope.
Come on in.
Coffee?
Sure.
Actually, Ms. Shaw can hear this as it affects the town.
And well, for better or worse, your company
might be part of our future.
Well, I'm happy to answer any questions.
Right now, we're trying to save our Christmas celebration.
Dan... Dan...
I mean, Pastor Porter, he mentioned an issue.
Just a minor detail of $3,500.
Thanks.
I don't need any change.
Thanks, Betty.
I'll let you guys get back to it.
Can I talk to you for a sec?
There's no way we can come up with $3,500.
There's got to be a way.
I mean, we've had bigger challenges than this.
We're just... $3,500 divided by how many
people in the town, or how many families,
or how many businesses?
There's... there's a solution to this.
There always is.
WOMAN 1: I think we could just put our heads together.
FRANK: What?
Hilary just donated money.
How much?
All of it.
What?
She's covering everything.
All the costs.
[laughs] And just like that, we
have ourselves the Christmas tidings
and tree celebration after all.
Woo-hoo.
Yeah.
Thank you.
[shouting]
[laughter]
[music playing]
Good morning, Father.
A little early for a check in, isn't it?
RICHARD (ON PHONE): I thought you'd call last night.
Yeah, I was just getting to know
the town like you suggested.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): How are the signatures coming?
I... I haven't done that yet.
Look, the town is financially desperate, and they
they almost didn't have their Christmas festival this year.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): Yeah, perfect.
Use Christmas.
Promise them the best festival they've ever had.
It's a great idea, Dad.
What about the church?
RICHARD (ON PHONE): You're letting your emotions
cloud your judgment.
Remember who you work for.
Get those signatures by Christmas Eve,
or I'll find someone who can.
[music playing]
HILARY: Historic preservation grants.
Ooh, what about this one?
Could be your Christmas tree this year.
Not without opening up a hole in my roof.
Oh, maybe the snow will cave in first
and then you can get it.
What?
I'm kidding.
Not funny.
Hey, look who just walked in.
Hey, Ms. Shaw, over here.
Hey.
What?
I thought we could maybe thank her for her donation.
DANIEL: Hi.
Hey, guys.
I'm going to go help a friend at the stands.
I thought you were going to help me get a tree.
I was.
Hey, Ms. Shaw, what are you doing right now?
Nothing really.
Great.
I'm going to go help with hot chocolate,
and you two can pick out a tree together.
Look at us.
Spreading the joy.
[laughs]
Look at us.
Sorry about that.
He's gotten very comfortable giving his uncle life advice.
Just so you know, I have no idea how
to pick out a Christmas tree.
[laughs] Well, if you're serious
about not having any plans, I would love some company.
My father told me what you did.
You gave this town reason to believe that prayer
really can change things.
I've been called a lot of things,
but never an answer to a prayer.
What you did was more than generous, Hilary.
You have no idea what the Christmas season
means to this community.
I'm starting to.
Can I ask why?
Why you did it?
Honestly, I don't know.
I did it before I even knew what I was doing.
I just... I don't think I've been a part of something
that mattered before.
And I can tell this really mattered to you
to everyone, I mean.
To the town.
Want to know what I think?
Hmm?
I think you've been touched by the Christmas spirit.
Who, me?
Mm-hmm.
No.
[laughs]
[music playing]
[phone vibrating]
Good.
You're still there.
Were you serious about helping me if I need it?
Like, really serious.
What do you need?
HILARY (ON PHONE): Research.
Whatever you can get on historic preservation grants, tax
incentives and, I don't know, community development
partnership. Oh, oh.
And info on successful projects that
have preserved existing structures
instead of demolishing them.
Hilary... HILARY (ON PHONE): I know.
OK?
I know.
If you can't help me, I understand.
Let me see what I can find.
Thank you.
Also, look into what it costs to restore a 19th century church.
I'm just asking for a friend.
You got it.
HILARY (ON PHONE): Thank you.
OK.
[music playing]
Hi.
I have a few moments before I have
to go help Nicole with the festival,
so I just thought I'd come and see what you're doing.
Look at you starting to fit in.
Let's not get carried away.
I've never really belonged anywhere.
Well, you do here.
You know, even though this church needs so many repairs,
it's stunning.
My late wife, Beth, used to always
say that broken things could be the most beautiful of all.
She always saw the potential where others saw problems.
In the church, you mean?
In here and with me.
When we met, I couldn't wait to see
what life was going to give me.
What happened?
Beth helped me to see that sometimes what we think we want
isn't actually what we need.
And what did you want?
To leave Midnight Clear.
Travel the world.
Build something new somewhere not here.
HILARY: And now?
Now, I can't imagine being anywhere else.
I think back to all the roads that God
had me travel down to get me to this place I am now.
I mean, think about it.
All the roads you had to travel to get you here.
I know I shouldn't be saying this to a pastor,
but I'm not sure about the whole faith thing.
Mind if I ask why?
If there is a God, he hasn't really
shown much interest in me.
Maybe you haven't been looking for him.
There has to be a way that we can save the church
and I can help this town.
I just... I haven't figured it out yet,
but I promise I'm going to do everything I can.
[music playing]
Nicole, do you think we can put the hot chocolate stand
in the center of the festival?
Yeah, sure.
Where were you thinking?
Ooh, by the benches.
That way people can sit while they drink.
Then we can have Betty's cookies right beside.
Great promotion for both.
I love it.
[giggling]
You know, you really were not what
we expected when we heard there was a big city
developer coming here.
What did you expect?
Someone who saw dollar signs instead of people.
Oh, I was definitely that person when I got here.
Mm-hmm.
And now?
I still see a few dollar signs, but I see people more.
Can I ask you something?
What you're doing here, is it really going to help our town,
or is it part of some bigger plan?
Last week, it was a bigger plan.
But helping this town feels more important to me.
It's probably the most important thing I've ever done.
Really?
Mm-hmm.
Hold on.
I'll be right back.
I gotta take this.
Oh.
[laughter]
Sorry.
Do you have to get that?
No, it can wait.
I'm glad I ran into you.
Not literally, but it worked out, so that's good, right?
OK, I think.
I was wondering if you'd like to join us tonight.
We're decorating Christmas cookies.
There will be pizza involved if that helps make your decision.
Really?
I'm not intruding on a family tradition or anything?
I think it's time for a few new ones.
And truthfully, my father overestimates
my decorating abilities, and I underestimate
the time it'll take.
I'd love to.
OK.
We'll see you later.
OK.
Bye.
[laughter]
[music playing]
HILARY: That pizza is so good.
Nice.
Look at this old nativity set I found.
Oh, wow.
[music playing]
Your grandmother made this the Christmas
after you were born, Tommy.
She worked on it for months.
I forgot we still had this.
It's beautiful.
My mom would always say that every angel
should look like they're carrying good news.
So where are we going to put it?
What about in front of the window?
Yeah, that's a good idea.
That way, everybody who walks by can see it.
That's exactly where it belongs.
Kind of like you.
I have been praying for someone to help
Daniel remember how to laugh.
Thank you.
Dad, are you bothering Hilary?
No.
No, not at all.
In fact, I was just asking him about those Christmas cookies
you promised me in exchange for my decorating skills.
When you offered cookies, you never mentioned
that I would have to make them.
Confession time.
I don't know how to make Christmas cookies from scratch.
What other way is there?
DANIEL: You know, the... the tube thing from the...
HILARY: No.
Store. Yes.
HILARY: You can't be serious.
Beth was the baker.
I was the taste tester.
Plus, when you've got someone like Betty
making cookies for you
where did you learn how to bake?
My mom.
Yeah, she was... she was an incredible baker.
Oh, she was so kind, considerate.
And she cared about, well, everything.
Is that a bad thing?
I didn't think so, no.
My dad would say, caring doesn't pay the bills.
Neither does not caring.
Hilary, what happened to make you afraid of faith?
I'm not afraid of it, I just...
I just don't believe in it.
You know?
My mother was diagnosed with cancer when I was 10.
The church prayed for her, and two years later, she was gone.
And you blame God?
A little, yeah.
Maybe a lot.
Prayer isn't just about getting what we want,
it's also about finding strength for what we get.
[chime]
We call that divine intervention.
[laughter]
[music playing]
I like her.
So does your uncle.
You think she'll stay?
Till after Christmas, I mean.
Oh, I think she's already decided to stay.
She just doesn't know it yet.
HILARY: You didn't have to walk me home.
What if I didn't want tonight to end?
Thank you for sharing your family traditions with me.
This last week, spending time with you,
I remember what hope feels like.
What it feels like to look forward to tomorrow.
It... it's been a long time since I felt that.
That... that... that was a lot.
I'm... I'm out of practice.
No.
No, it's not.
I... I feel the same.
I just... I just don't want you hating me if I can't...
Whatever it is, I have faith in you.
That thing you told me earlier today
about God not showing up in your life,
what if he's been here all along?
Good night, Daniel.
Good night.
If you're up there, I could really use a miracle right now.
[music playing]
This might just work.
Hi, Dad.
I was just going to call you.
I find that hard to believe, considering
numerous calls, texts and emails have gone unanswered for days.
Where are we with the contracts?
There's progress.
I just need a little bit more time.
RICHARD (ON PHONE): You know our investors are concerned?
Quite frankly, so am I. You get them to sign
or you find leverage to make them.
HILARY (ON PHONE): Dad, I understand.
I do, I just
there's got to be a better way to address
these issues and that...
RICHARD (ON PHONE): Hilary, what side are you on?
Is it mine?
You get them to sign today.
[music playing]
Hi.
HILARY: Hey.
I hope it's OK that I'm here.
Of course.
Church is always open to anyone who needs to talk to God.
Unfortunately, I'm the one doing all the talking.
After you talked, did you listen?
Now you tell me.
[laughs] Everything OK?
I think I found a plan to help your town and save your church.
That kind of sounds like a miracle.
So why don't you seem happier?
It's my father.
He just won't listen to me.
I... we have these investors, and they want their money out, and
something's changed since I've been here.
I just... I like this me in Midnight Clear.
I... I like the town.
I like the people here.
And I like you.
I like you, too.
Do you want to tell me your idea?
Mm-hmm.
I've been working on it all night.
I actually have a friend helping me in the office, too.
Daniel, look at these numbers.
This could actually work.
Mm-hmm.
I just need to get the town on board to support this.
And then I need to convince my father
that this plan is actually better than his original plan.
And you think you can do that?
Honestly, I don't know.
But I'm going to try everything that I can.
Can you help me get everyone together for a meeting?
[music playing]
Can I have everyone's attention, please?
We're all aware of the current circumstances and the offers
that everyone's been receiving from Shaw Enterprises.
But before we walk away from everything our ancestors
and our families have worked so hard for,
I think we should hear Hilary's idea.
I'm sorry, Pastor, but you're a little too late.
Shaw Development made a formal offer for the entire town,
including the church.
What?
No, that can't be.
No.
It can.
They offered 30% over market value for every property.
Cash deals and quick closings.
I just spoke to my father a few hours ago.
This was not part of the plan.
His plan must have changed.
His offer came at 10:00 AM, along with a notice which states
if properties are not sold voluntarily, they will pursue
eminent domain proceedings.
[indiscernible chatter]
Look, they're offering enough money to pay off your debts
and have some left to start over somewhere else.
Start over?
This is our home.
TOMMY: What about tydings and trees?
The church?
Our community?
Sentiment doesn't pay medical bills
or save failing businesses, Tommy.
Can I say something?
I know you have no reason to trust me,
but I might have an alternative.
I highly doubt anything could be better than the offer
we received from your company.
What if it could save your town?
Historic preservation grants.
Federal tax incentives for heritage tourism, community
development partnerships.
OK, this is the plan.
We restore the church as a heritage site,
create seasonal festivals all year round,
which will bring back tourism and
visitors who just want those small town,
authentic experiences.
This revenue alone could save the community.
Keep Midnight Clear as it is?
Bingo.
But make it the best version of itself that it could be.
I believe in this town, and I believe in everyone here.
Someone very special showed me just what it
means to have hope and faith.
Now I'm hoping that you can have it too, in me.
Give me 24 hours.
I'm going to present this plan to my father
and show him that it could be more profitable than the one
that he has.
And if you can't?
I'm asking you to trust me for one day.
I trust her.
[music playing]
So do I.
Me too.
24 hours, Hilary.
Then Midnight Clear accepts the deal.
Deal.
[music playing]
Hilary, what are you doing here?
Please tell me you have the contracts.
HILARY: I don't.
But I've come up with something better.
Look, this could make us more money
and create a new model for community development
nationwide.
We can create something unique.
A heritage tourism destination that can bring...
Just... just stop.
You haven't even looked at the numbers.
I don't need to.
What is going on with you?
Dad, this town is different.
It's not like the others.
They're... the people there, they're like
they're like one big family, you know,
that have kept traditions for generations and generations.
You wasted enough time there.
I'm moving forward with eminent domain,
and I've already found a way to close the church.
Dad, no.
It's already done.
It's time to move on.
[music playing]
OK.
This is me moving on.
I quit.
What's going on?
Pastor, I'm sorry.
Someone called with code violations
claiming the church to be structurally unsafe.
Until I can get an engineer here,
the church must remain closed.
So what about Christmas Eve service?
No one is available until after Christmas.
What?
I'm sorry.
I really am, but my hands are tied.
I know you all trusted Hilary, but I think it's clear
now where her allegiance lies.
We agreed to give her 24 hours.
Daniel, I had nothing to do with this.
This was all my father.
I'm... I'm so sorry.
I tried.
I'll let Shaw Development know we're accepting the offer.
Can we say no?
There has to be something we can do.
HILARY: I'm so sorry.
There'll be substantial relocation packages and...
Daniel.
Was this the plan all along?
Daniel, no.
No.
I tried, I really did.
We all appreciate what you've done.
I think you should go now.
[music playing]
She's not bringing good news today.
It might seem like that.
But you know what I've always said.
Sometimes the best gifts come from the most unexpected places.
You cannot spin this to a positive outcome.
Isaiah 43:19, now I am doing something new.
See how it springs up.
I feel like I've failed everyone.
How can you say that, son?
You have kept us above water for years now.
You alone have turned this town into a community, a family.
And you opened your heart to someone else
when yours had been broken for so long.
I have never been more proud of you than I am in this moment.
Me too, Uncle Daniel.
You and Ms. Shaw are going to figure this out.
It's not that simple.
Yeah, it is.
Hope lives here, right?
We literally have a sign of it in our church.
The kid's not wrong.
Tommy, I appreciate everything you're trying to say.
It's just...
No, Uncle D, just no.
When Aunt Beth died while my parents were having rough times.
When everything didn't look like it was going to work out,
you told me to not give up.
We have faith.
We keep hope, no matter what it looks like.
You can't give up.
We just can't.
It's awful strange to think this might
be our last tree lighting.
Who would do something like this right before Christmas?
Someone who's not from here, that's who.
Hi.
I'm probably the last person you want to see right now.
I just... I wanted to come say goodbye
and tell you how sorry I am.
Sorry doesn't save our town.
I know.
I tried to stop him, I really did.
Maybe you just realized you care about us in this town
a little bit too late.
HILARY: You're right to be upset with me.
Whether you believe it or not, this week with you
has been the biggest blessing of my life.
I just... I want you to know that.
I hope you told that to Pastor Daniel, too.
Hilary, wait.
The tree lighting is tonight, and it's only happening
because of your donation.
Might not be a good idea.
Maybe not.
But she at least saved that.
You should at least be here to see it before you go.
[music playing]
I know this has been a difficult time for us,
but tonight we celebrate that in which we have always celebrated,
hope, community, faith, and love that binds us all together.
Christmas reminds us that even in our darkest moments,
light can break through and miracles can happen
when we least expect them.
I know you've all heard this from myself
and my father before me.
Sometimes the greatest gifts come from the most unexpected
places,
and people.
Let there be light in Midnight Clear one last time.
[music playing]
[applause]
BRANDON: Hilary, wait up.
Hey.
I just wanted to say goodbye.
And for what it's worth, I'm sorry.
I thought you had a really strong plan.
We had a strong plan.
Thanks again for all your help.
I... I should have known my father
would never change his mind.
Do you have any plans for Christmas?
I think dinner with my father is off the table, so yeah.
Stay in touch.
OK?
And if you ever need any more help, I'm here.
Thanks, Brandon.
Merry Christmas.
RICHARD: You're seriously quitting?
Look, I know you think this town is different,
but you'll see it's not.
Congratulations, by the way.
For what exactly?
Your underhanded tactics.
Calling in what I'm sure were numerous favors
to report the code violations two days before Christmas.
Was you who gave me the idea.
HILARY: What are you talking about?
Well, what was it you reported about the roof?
Structural damage, leaks, potential collapse.
The roof?
That's... that's what the code violations were all about?
RICHARD: Yeah.
[scoffs]
What's funny?
Nothing.
You just gave me the best Christmas present ever.
I don't think I understand.
Merry Christmas, Dad.
[music playing]
Merry Christmas Eve...
I know I can't fix everything else,
but I can try to save Christmas Eve service at least.
How?
The church is condemned.
I have an idea.
But just don't tell Daniel because I
don't want to get his hopes up.
Please?
I have nowhere else to go.
Well, then, welcome home.
[laughter]
[music playing]
I know it's Christmas, but I need roofing materials.
Thanks anyway.
OK.
Hi, it's Hilary Shaw.
I understand that you might have some leftover shingles.
Is there any way you could donate them?
Hello?
OK.
Plan B.
I overheard her asking people for materials
to fix the church roof.
I can't believe she came back.
Maybe she's trying to fix things.
A little late, considering tomorrow's Christmas Eve.
FRANK: The roof, you say?
Let me tell you ladies a story.
Picture it.
Christmas, 1968.
Oh, it was a storm.
[music playing]
Hilary.
I heard you came back.
I guess my question is, why?
I just came back to try to fix what I broke.
You didn't break the roof.
HILARY: I just thought if I could get it repaired today
that they would lift the code violations
and you could do your Christmas Eve service.
You really came back for that?
I've called construction companies,
suppliers, contract workers.
Turns out, unlike my father, no one is working on Christmas Eve.
Daniel, I am so sorry for trying to get you
to sell when I first came here, for what my father did,
for everything.
I quit my job, and I wanted to come back here and just...
I wanted to make things right.
You quit?
None of it matters.
Not without this town and everyone here.
And I didn't just come back for the roof.
I came back for you.
I understand how upset you are with me.
And if you want me to leave, I will.
I just... I just wanted you to know how I feel.
You coming back as the best Christmas gift anyone
could have ever given me.
[music playing]
Hilary, turn around.
We heard it when you were trying to do,
so we made calls of our own.
How did you do all this?
Well, it turns out Monroe Family Construction
really loves your sermons.
BETTY: And the hardware store in Hill Valley was happy to donate
materials for a good cause.
As soon as the roof is fixed, I'll lift the code violations.
And if we finish before 7:00 the Christmas
Eve service is back on.
[cheering]
[music playing]
DANIEL: On this holy night, we celebrate not only
the birth of our Savior, but the power of hope,
faith, community, and forgiveness.
Mary and Joseph had no place to go.
They were alone, far from home.
It looked impossible.
I'm sure it felt hopeless.
But God specializes in impossible situations.
Our community, we still face many unknowns.
A lot of us are probably feeling like we're
in our own dark stable right now.
But just as God provided that night in Bethlehem,
He provided for us today.
And He will provide for us in every tomorrow.
The birth of Jesus reminds us that God specializes
in new beginnings, teaching us that whenever it looks darkest,
that is when God appears.
Not how we expect, but through ordinary people like you and I,
willing to say yes to his extraordinary plan.
[music playing]
Tonight, as we light our candles,
we celebrate that same miracle.
The light of Christ that no darkness can overcome.
The hope that lives in this church, in each one of us.
And the town of Midnight Clear says?
EVERYONE: Amen.
Amen.
(SINGING) It came upon the midnight clear.
EVERYONE: (SINGING) That glorious song
of old from angels bending near the Earth
to touch their harps of gold.
I'll be right back.
Beautiful Christmas Eve service.
Not a dry eye in the church.
You good?
Yeah.
Yeah. Just thinking.
Tonight was pretty cool to be a part of.
Maybe I will join the family business after all.
[laughs] Oh.
See you, Uncle D. Bye, Grandpa.
HILARY: What do you want, Dad?
I heard you were trying to fix the roof.
I was, and we did.
The town came together and we made it happen.
Is that all?
Oh, Pastor Porter, I assume.
This is my father, Richard Shaw.
I just came to see what made my daughter walk
away from everything we built.
Dad, it's Christmas Eve.
Can we please not do this?
RICHARD: This won't take long.
I'm starting a new division at Shaw Developments.
Well, I told you, I quit.
RICHARD: You did.
But I was hoping you'd consider returning
to save places like this instead of destroying them.
I found a new home here in Midnight Clear.
I'm... I'm not leaving.
It could be based right here.
HILARY: What about your development plans?
I read your proposal.
To preserve and revitalize, I believe?
You were right.
Midnight Clear has a lot more to offer than profit margins.
And I saw that firsthand tonight during your service.
Midnight Clear is a special place.
And I'm sorry, Hilary, for not listening.
I rescinded my plans for the town.
I'm hoping you'll make Midnight Clear our first community
restoration project.
[music playing]
Mr. Shaw, would you like to join
us at the diner for Christmas cookies and hot chocolate?
Oh.
I'd be honored.
Ah.
[music playing]
So how was your first Christmas at Midnight Clear?
First of many, I hope.
Does that mean we have a new resident?
Merry Christmas, Pastor Porter.
Merry Christmas, Ms. Shaw.
[music playing]