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Wallen Christmas Events The Advent Season Advent Celebration The Meaning of Advent and the Origin of the Advent Wreath The Advent wreath originated a few hundred years ago among the Lutherans of eastern Germany. It was probably suggested by the many light symbols which were prominent in folk customs at the end of November and beginning of December. At that time of the year, the pagans of Northern Europe celebrated the month of Yule (December) with the burning of lights and fires to dispel the gloom of the short days and long dark nights of winter. In medieval times Christians kept many of these light and fire symbols alive as popular traditions. Later, in the sixteenth century these practices were given a Christian meaning and lights came to be used as religious symbols of Advent in the home. This practice quickly spread among the Protestants of eastern Germany and was soon accepted by Protestants and Catholics in other parts of the country. The Advent wreath is a wreath of evergreens of various kinds, some with symbolic meaning. It can either be suspended from the ceiling or placed on a table. Fastened to the wreath are four candles standing upright, at equal distances. These candles represent the four weeks of Advent. A fifth candle may be added during the celebration of Christmas. Each day, at a certain time - usually in the evening - the family gathers for a short religious exercise. Every Sunday of Advent one more candle is lit, until all four candles shed their light to announce the approaching birthday of the Lord. All other lights may be extinguished in the room, so that only the glow of the live candles illuminates the darkness. The traditional symbolism of the Advent wreath reminds us of Old Testament times, when humanity was “sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death” (Luke 1:79); when the prophets, illumined by God, foretold a Redeemer; and when the hearts of men yearned for a Messiah who would save the world. The wreath - an ancient symbol of victory and glory - symbolizes the “fulfillment of time” in the coming of Christ and the glory of His birth.
Christmas Musical December 20th, 2009
“A Baby Changes Everything” tells the story of three imagined, troubled seekers who almost slept through the first Christmas –and the children who woke them in time to experience the life –changing miracle of the Incarnation. Who could imagine that one of our most beloved carols would contain such a cautionary warning concerning our contemporary world –and such a promise of hope? Bethlehem Ephrathah was one of countless peasant villages hidden among the Judean hills, forgotten to everyone except those who toiled in its fields, ate in its inns, and made homes along its dark silent streets. They raised sons and daughters, endured Roman oppression, and longed for their promised Messiah. So why did Bethlehem not experience His coming? Why did they sleep through the brilliant star? The song of the angels? The newborn cry from a stable’s manger? How could they miss the birth of the Savior of the world? Or perhaps the more troubling question is how could we? The challenge is clear, the theme is timeless, and the time is now: Will we go down in history as a people with no room for their King?
Treasure the Gift - Wallen Christmas Eve Service We invite you to join us for a candlelight service filled with music and celebration of the wonderful gift of our Savior on the Eve of His birth. |
