Here in the friary, although we never use tablecloths—even on festive occasions, during the Christmas season our evening meals are illuminated by candles and accompanied by sacred background music. It is our custom to make the nativity scene the central symbol of the holy season both outside and in the chapel which is tastefully decorated with real pine and fresh holly with its bright red berries. Of course, the generosity of friends keeps our refrigerator full, while homemade desserts stacked in tin containers slowly lose their contents bit by delicious bit.
As you may already know, the Church liturgically celebrates Christmas for an octave, that is, for eight days after the Feast of the Nativity. This means our morning Mass is longer—and a bit “smokier”—as incense is used to highlight the solemnity of the sacrifice. Of course, the Gloria is said or sung together with Christmas songs which somehow retain their beauty even when we sometimes slide off key! Once again, the Church wants us to keep the party going, that is, to celebrate the greatest event which ever happened in human history—the coming of God to earth as man.
Since we have been speaking a lot about the influence of secularism upon Christmas and other holydays, perhaps as the grace of the season is still with us, it might be helpful to think about and prepare for next year. As you know, it will be here before you know it. So, ask yourself what changes could be made to make next year’s celebration more Christian. If you “caved in” to the popular culture and made your lawn look more like Disneyland than the Holy Land, quietly take your loss and give Frosty the Snowman or Santa a toss. Make an unannounced resolution to “re-adjust” your holiday habits and make a humble yet happy return to the spiritual roots of both Christmas and Easter.
Finally, I must say, we received a good response from our suggestion that parishes sponsor contests in order to initiate public displays of faith on private property. (see reflection of November 4) Please let us know if this simple initiative was done in your parish. At the same time, we should encourage Christian manufacturers to produce creative displays which are inexpensive, yet effective in telling passersby the true meaning of the “holiday” season. Let’s get into gear and be ready for next year, so that as our culture continues to curdle, we will offer something fresh and beautiful. Only a dynamic and daring counter-attack made in truth and in love will turn things around—and that begins with both of us.
In the meantime, be sure to spend this time enjoying Christmas. This doesn’t mean more gifts and guests, but in fact, more time—alone. Find some quiet moments for yourself and your memories. When everyone is asleep, slip into your living room or den, switch on the tree lights, pour yourself a glass of whatever, sit back and ponder the gift of life. Thank God for the gift of Himself, the gift of faith, family, and friends.
Finally, my friend, to you who have lost a special person during this past year, you must especially ponder the meaning of the lights and songs and celebration. Yes, God is indeed with us, which means each day you live without your loved one is one day closer to meeting them—and enjoying a Christmas season which knows no end.
Fr. Glenn Sudano, CFR |
