Church begins Advent season with the hanging of the greens

Christ Reformed United Church of Christ kicked off the Advent season on Sunday, Nov. 27, with the traditional “Hanging of the Greens” ceremony. While this ceremony is usually geared toward children, several adults in the congregation stepped up to place greens on the altar.

Bob and Lisa Gough brought the evergreens to the altar, Lois Brady brought the holly, Caren Forestandi brought the mistletoe, James Rinker brought the star and H.J. Lord rang the sleigh bells and placed them at the foot of the altar. Afterward, Sylvia Kesecker read the Christmas story.

The Advent season was also observed with the lighting of the first Advent candle, for hope, while the congregation sang “Light One Candle” and brought gifts of food or money to the front of the sanctuary for CCAP. This practice will continue throughout the Advent season.

Lois Brady distributed more stockings for the Salvation Army and reminded congregation members they must be filled and returned to her by Dec. 11 for distribution to needy children.