Welcome The Spirit Of Christmas
Drama
It's So Christmas-See!
A Collection of Resources for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Object:
Preparation
Churches can begin the tradition of hanging the greens with a very small investment. A modest nest egg can be hatched into a very satisfying event when a handful of creative people incubate it. Here are the basic elements for beginning.
The Greens
As the name tells us, we hang evergreens (and other appropriate decorations we may choose to add to them) to enhance our holiday worship events. Garlands, wreaths, and sprays are the beginning place. These can be either artificial or natural greens, and a good case can be made for each. Some advantages of the artificial greens are: 1) fire safety, 2) their reusability, and 3) convenience.
Every worship room is unique and offers wonderfully creative opportunities to decorate. Think about wreaths and garlands for the platform area: railings around the choir, instrument boxes, baptistry. Lovely sprays might be added high on either side of the front. Festive matching bows will tie these together by color and design. Later, doves, poinsettias, or silk ornaments could be added to the greens. Already the room looks beautiful! When members with actual floral arranging skills come into the picture, a wonderland can result. Balconies, windows, pews, doorways, and aisles can be included.
Advent Wreath
One way to add interaction between congregation and worship leaders during the four Sundays leading up to Christmas is by having an Advent wreath. Traditionally this is an 18- to 24-inch evergreen wreath laid flat on or near the remembrance table, with four colored candles standing evenly spaced within it, and a larger, white Christ Candle in the center. A candle is lighted each week to "count down" the weeks of Advent, so that on the first Sunday only one candle is lighted, on the second Sunday two are lighted, and so on.
Each candle is assigned a significance, such as the Candle of Hope, the Candle of Joy, the Candle of Peace, and the Candle of Love. Families and individuals may take turns lighting the candles each Sunday during worship. The large Christ Candle is lighted Christmas Eve or Christmas morning when the congregation gathers.
As an alternative to the evergreen wreath, five large candles (four colored and one white) can be placed at varying heights on the draped remembrance table. It is effective to use brass candleholders with these, and satin or velvet are attractive fabrics for a drape. A poinsettia, evergreen spray, large Bible, or Nativity figures may also be added. You will find the Advent wreath or candles called for in all of the programs in this book.
Christmas Tree
A stately tree adds a focal point to the room. Sometimes it is tasteful to keep the tree a little sophisticated by using only white lights and gold or white decorations. The tree does not have to be very large and showy. A smaller tree (perhaps six to eight feet tall) can be put on a small covered platform to give it necessary height. Carry the spiritual themes of Christmas onto the tree with doves, Chrismons or Nativity symbols, and matching bows. The tree is a perfect illustration of how congregations can begin simply and add to the collection each year. Members with a creative bent would love a Chrismon workshop at some convenient time in the future -- something we will talk more about in this chapter.
Other Decorations
As hanging the greens catches on, you will think of other items that can be added to the collection. Joyful worship banners, bright poinsettias in festive wraps, a set of Nativity figures (we chose one the children could handle freely), and votive candles are examples. If money for decorating is limited (a certain bet in most congregations!), Sunday school classes or other groups in the congregation might contribute modest amounts, especially as they see the tradition growing.
Music
This is what turns the occasion from a decorating party into a worship experience. Sometimes hanging the greens is more like a musical event or choir recital, with decorating woven throughout the program. Sometimes it is more like a decorating party, with times of reflection created by congregational singing and special presentations. Variation from year to year increases the congregation's interest. The key word here is cooperation. Ministers, musicians, laypersons, and artists all combine to make an event that glorifies God and delights worshipers.
The Children
Focus especially on the children and youth of the church family. Include them in several ways. In fact, make them the stars -- give them the best seats. What a wonderful way to communicate Bible truths and valued traditions to the emerging congregation! Invite them to sing, to decorate the tree, to come onto the platform with the pastor for the reading of the Christmas story from the Bible. Take time in Sunday school to help them make Chrismons for the tree. Choose them for candlelighters. Plan a family fellowship after hanging the greens with child-friendly refreshments and goodie sacks. Build memories and faith in the children of the congregation. Make it fun!
Drama
It's the icing on the cake! Bring in Bible persons from Nativity stories and the adventure becomes almost mystical. Invite a couple of angels and the event takes on a life of its own. Drama workshops can begin by researching Nativity narratives in the prophets and the gospels. While dramas may take some license to create contexts or elaborate on the scriptures, they must remain true to the known facts in every way. One trained drama coach will help immensely here.
Bring it all together, and once you have experienced it, Christmas will never be the same without hanging the greens!
Planning For Creative Workshops
We are all creative beings, made in the image of a Creator God. Creating is enjoyable, affirming, inspiring, spending valuable time together, watching and helping as imaginations come to life. Relationships develop as creations evolve. Here are five ideas for workshops that will enhance Christmas worship and hanging the greens if you choose to try it in your church. (They do not have to all be done in the same year.)
Banner Making
Invite those who enjoy design, stitchery, quilting, and fabric art to put their heads together and come up with a set of Christmas worship banners. One nice set can be used for years, and the investment can be quite reasonable. Choose a theme, such as the names for Jesus in the Christmas stories (Jesus, Savior, Only Begotten Son, Immanuel, Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father). Select a Chrismon symbol to illustrate each, and transpose that onto handmade, matching banners of felt, taffeta, or satin.
Affix a T-shaped pole to each banner so it can be easily carried and positioned. Decide on the locations for hanging banners. Install fasteners on which to hang the banners. Good locations may be found on walls, beams and pillars, or balcony rails. Wonderful banner books are available in Christian bookstores that detail this kind of project, and one of these would be a worthwhile investment for beginners. An entire hanging the greens program can be built around the presentation of the banners.
Music Rehearsals
The possibilities here are limited only by the availability of the choral director. Choirs, ensembles, instrumental groups, or soloists can select and prepare music to make hanging the greens truly a worship celebration. Visualize handbells ringing, harps and flutes playing, children's choirs performing, all to the glory of God in the joy of the season. In some churches the adult choir or the youth choir is the loft choir for this service, freeing the sanctuary choir to work on the cantata or musical extravaganza planned for another date.
Include the choral director early in planning stages, so that music selected can enhance the theme of the program. Often anthems and special music being prepared for other worship events of the season can be used in this program also -- an important economy in such a busy month.
Many suggestions for congregational songs, carols, and praise songs and for special music presentations are made throughout this book. Congregations have widely varied preferences and resources, and music leaders will want to substitute other music when it would fit their needs better. Music should enhance the theme of the event as much as possible.
Chrismon Making
The many ancient and modern Christian symbols or monograms (hence Chrismons) for God are illustrated in banner-making books, also. Some are Greek letters like the Alpha and Omega, which have stood for the names and attributes of God for centuries. Others are pictographs like the dove, the fish, a star, a manger, a lamp. You will need to purchase a set of Chrismon patterns.*
Chrismons are made into Christmas tree ornaments in many ways. Children can use thin styrofoam (cut by adults using a hot wire) into Chrismon shapes, and decorate them with glitter, beads, and sequins. Silk Christmas balls look lovely enhanced with beads, sequins, and braids in Chrismon designs. Felt or fabric can be cut into Chrismon shapes, sewn, stuffed with polyfill and decorated. These are among the easiest kinds to make, and all will last for years if carefully stored.
Floral Arranging
While lovely wreaths, garlands, and sprays may be purchased at craft and discount centers, they are made lovelier by experienced hands. A benefit of creative workshops is that those who know how can pass on their knowledge to willing beginners, and these skills will be useful all year long. Consider having an expert floral arranger come and guide a group of your willing members in making matching arrangements and bows for your auditorium worship area.
A Checklist For Hanging The Greens
Getting from enthusiastic ideas to a well-organized worship event requires a series of intentional steps. One plan of action follows.
1. Coordinate With Your Ministers
Laypersons who initiate an idea such as hanging the greens will want to begin by sharing with those who plan worship and family events. If the idea is well received, set a date and time on the approved church calendar. We prefer the first Sunday evening of Advent, which is usually the Sunday following Thanksgiving. (It is helpful to discuss whether the decorations will be disturbed -- "undecorated" if you will -- for weddings, funerals, or other scheduled worship and music events which occur in December.) Hanging the greens can happen during evening worship or perhaps before or after that hour.
2. Select A Theme Or Program
Coordination of decorations, music, and drama will be better if everyone knows in advance what the flavor and purpose of the event will be. Programs like the one following this section are a possible beginning place. If this is a new venture for your church, consider using a rather traditional service. This will provide a better opportunity for the congregation to become educated about the meanings of this tradition.
3. Enlist A Leadership Team
Enthusiasm, participation, and ideas are fostered by shared leadership. The person designated as the primary (coordinating) leader will benefit from enlisting a skilled person to be in charge of decorations, another for music, another for program or drama, and perhaps a fourth person to plan a fellowship after the event. Let these people form a planning committee for the event.
4. Prepare The Script
Any program chosen will have to be adapted to your own congregation's needs. The architecture of the worship room, the available resources, budget, time, and other constraints will dictate changes. Work through the program with your committee and musicians. When you are satisfied, have your complete script printed for everyone on the planning group.
5. Schedule Workshops
If you plan to involve church members in creativity like banner and Chrismon making, drama, music, or floral arranging, schedule working sessions. (It may take three or four work sessions for each of these groups to complete their work.) Allow enough lead time to promote these in the congregation, so that those who are interested will not miss the opportunity.
You will immediately see that these workshops are a natural way to draw in peripheral members and nonmember friends. The fellowship of working with others may help bring them into the church family and the kingdom. Send invitations to recent visitors and absentee members. Make a list of members with a creative bent, and make personal phone calls to ask for their help. Workshops can have many rewarding spin-offs.
6. Budget And Purchase Needed Supplies
Remember, it may be well to begin simply and add to the event each year. The evergreens are the first items to buy. If there are no funds for making Chrismons the first year, ask each family to bring one or two favorite ornaments for a "Friendship" tree representative of the congregation.
7. Let The Creativity Happen
Gently guide the workshops, and delight in how the combined creativity of members and friends blossoms into unique love gifts to the Lord. The coordinating leader will keep things moving along and affirm others as things progress toward completion.
8. Stay In Touch With Ministers
Plans and ideas have a way of evolving. Keep communication frequent and open. Be flexible when changes are needed. Focus on bringing joy to the congregation and glory to the Lord in all areas of the event.
If there is to be a printed program, put all necessary information in the hands of the secretary or typist in ample time.
9. Schedule Time To Prepare The Worship Room
On the day of hanging the greens, time is needed actually to get all the decorations, drama props, microphones, and other equipment out and in place. The planning committee and a handyman or custodian comprise the workforce.
Our preference is to spend about two hours in the afternoon (following morning worship, if this takes place Sunday evening). Place garlands, sprays, and wreaths on the floor, just below where they will be hung. Place the hooks or nails that will hold them into walls or rails, each with an ornament wire attached, so members can easily and quickly place greens at the appropriate time in the service. It may be possible to do some of these details the week prior, taking part of the work load off the actual day of the event.
If written assignments to families or team leaders will be needed during the service, prepare these ahead. (See "Hanging The Greens Assignment Sheet" illustration at the end of this chapter.) Put lights on the Christmas tree, attach an extension cord, and try them out. Place ornaments near the tree at "child level" with hanger wires attached. Have the ladder nearby so older children can climb up to decorate higher branches.
When fresh poinsettias are to be used, be sure they are dressed in protective jackets so moisture will not mar the furnishings. If candles are called for, have a lighter or matches ready, and check wicks. Carefully read over the program script again and list every detail that needs your attention. It will be time well spent.
10. Host Hanging The Greens In A Spirit Of Joy
In all the fuss and fun of preparing, set a spirit of joy that will be caught by worshipers. All the hours of work are lost if a fussy spirit prevails. It may be wise for the coordinating leader not to be an "up-front" platform personality. In this way he or she can move quietly among the worshipers to answer questions and keep things on schedule. It is more important for the congregation to feel happy with what they accomplish, than for every bow to be in place. Garlands, bows, and decorations can be adjusted tomorrow.
11. Be Available During The Season
Touch-ups will be needed, especially if some decorations have to be removed for other events. Keep a happy spirit -- it's almost fun to get to redo things a time or two or three. (Sometimes church leaders request that other events incorporate and enjoy the worship room decorations during the holidays and leave them undisturbed. This differs from church to church.)
Let your final act be that of writing or phoning a message of thanks to all who helped make the event successful.
____________
*CSS Publishing Company has two resources that include patterns for Chrismons: A Chrismon Service by Ellen and James Edgar, ISBN 0-89536-500-6; and Chrismons -- They Point To Jesus by Diane L. Gibson, ISBN 0-7880-0849-8.
Hanging The Greens Assignment Sheet
Note To Team Leaders
We will divide the auditorium into eight work areas as numbered on the following sketch. You will be the leader of everyone sitting in your area. Your team's assignment is circled on the list below.
Your second assignment is to help when the children decorate the Christmas tree. When it is time, gather up all the children in your section (with enough moms and dads to help) and take them to the tree. Let each child put one or more ornaments on the tree.
Teams And Assignments
Team 1: Hang garlands around the piano box railing and hang spray above piano. (Nails are in place.)
Team 2: Hang garlands around the organ box railing and hang spray above organ. (Nails are in place.)
Team 3: Hang three wreaths on the east auditorium wall. (Nails are in place.)
Team 4: Hang two garlands and bows over SE entry door (D-4) as shown in the sketch.
Team 5: Hang two garlands and bows over NE entry door (D-1) as shown in the sketch.
Team 6: Hang three wreaths on west auditorium wall. (Nails are in place.)
Team 7: Hang two garlands and bows over north entry door (D-2) as shown in the sketch.
Team 8: Hang two garlands and bows over NW entry door (D-3) as shown in the sketch.
Note About Doorway Garlands
Note that three nails are already in place at top center and corners of door frame. Begin both garlands at top center, and drape one toward each corner and down the side of the door, using corner nails as holders. You will find ornament wires on nails and on backs of bows to help you fasten garlands securely.
____________
For examples of these illustrations, see printed book. Create your copy of pages 53 and 54 as a one-page handout for your team leaders.
Order Of Worship
Welcome The Spirit Of Christmas
Description Of This Program
Visualize the true spirit of Christmas by adding lovely white doves and white poinsettias to the traditional hanging the greens decor. Families can each contribute one or two ornaments from their personal collections to create a "Spirit of Sharing" tree.
Characters Needed
Narrator -- may read all the explanations and direct the decorating
Minister -- reads some narrations and the Bible passages throughout Choral Director -- arranges and leads congregational and special music
Volunteer Families -- four to eight families who will hang portions of the evergreens
Preparations
Carefully make a detailed list of the usual preparations for hanging the greens. The choices you make in decorations will indicate how this program needs to be adapted for your congregation.
Each year your church may want to add something to the collection of available decorations. This year's suggested purchase is white doves. You will need one for each wreath and each garland bow plus one or more for the Christmas tree. Plan for one larger dove to top the tree. A dozen others could be used with the decorations, scattered throughout the boughs.
Purchase enough ribbon to make new bows. Bows of gold net, or gold and white fabric, would complement the white doves. Light blue or another pastel is also a good choice. Two kinds of ribbon, such as a gold lamé and a gold and pastel tapestry, can be used together by someone with floral skills.
When using white doves, we chose also white poinsettias. These are more delicate than the traditional red flowers and will require more tending and careful watering during the month. If they are your choice, plan to have someone carry the plants to a room with natural light and climate control on weekdays unless your worship room has those features. When flower funds are low, consider inviting families in the church to purchase a poinsettia in honor or memory of someone, or asking classes to purchase plants that will later be taken to homebound members. The list of those so honored may be printed in one of the church's publications during the season.
If a "Spirit of Sharing" tree fits into your plans, announce about three Sundays in advance of the program that each family is invited to bring two ornaments from their personal collections for the tree. It is possible to return these after Christmas by putting them in baskets and letting members come to an announced location to reclaim their own. Remember to have extra ornament wires on hand for the hanging the greens event.
Prepare the assignment sheet (on page 53 and 54) for each of the families that will hang the greens, so they understand just what part of the decorating falls to them. Also enlist people to light the Advent candle and others to carry banners. Note that the poinsettias may be brought by those who purchased them. Enlist a group to bring votive candles, and make necessary arrangements for someone to help them light their candles just before they are brought to the worship area.
Music
Quiet background music, simple carols, and worship choruses are suggested, with two special music offerings, which you may substitute for your choice. This is a good program for a busy year when the choirs are involved in other pursuits and time to work on music is limited.
Order Of Program
Quiet Music: "Sweet, Sweet Spirit"
(Minister welcomes everyone warmly and asks that families sit together during the singing of the first song, so that family groups can work as units during the evening. Add that "family" in the church always refers to any kind of grouping: single parents with children, empty nesters, families with three or four generations represented, groups of single friends, or parents with children. Encourage families to "adopt" people near them who are without family in the service.)
Congregational Song: "The Family Of God"
Prayer: (by Minister)
I. The Spirit Of Hope: Lighting The Advent Candle
Narrator: Each year about this time we hear people say, "I haven't got the Christmas spirit yet," or "I just can't seem to get the Christmas spirit this year." It takes a while -- some years longer than others. But eventually, as we hear the carols on radios and department store intercoms, and see the tinseled trees and counters bulging with gift suggestions, we begin to recapture the feelings of Christmases past and the spirit returns.
As Christians we look for something more in Christmas than these material and tangible offerings: something deeper -- a touchback to the original event -- a spirit of hope from God's own heart. Walking through Christmas on Main Street, we miss the hope of the season -- the promise of a precious Savior Son who would become the Lamb of God, sent to take away the sins of the world. This hope is the core of the Christmas spirit for us who believe.
Minister: It is this deeper spirit -- this echo of worship from earlier Christmases -- that we seek tonight as we hang the greens. We will welcome back some old friends: the Advent candles, evergreen garlands, Christmas tree, carols, and candles, as well as, certainly the familiar Bible stories and passages. Tonight we will introduce as new friends some white doves and white poinsettias to symbolize the true spirit of the season.
Over generations, Christians have associated the white dove with God's own Holy Spirit. It was by that Spirit that "the Word became flesh" and was born of the Virgin Mary. It was through the Spirit that our hope turned to realization and joy. Listen again to that story tonight.
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:26-38
Congregational Praise Song: "Father, I Adore You"
(As the song is sung, the family enlisted to light the Advent candle comes forward.)
Lighting The Advent Candle Of Hope
II. The Spirit Of Life: Hanging The Evergreens
Narrator: The evergreen garlands and wreaths are "old friends" at Christmas. They bring life to our room, which calls to mind the life God gives us through the Savior, Jesus. With that life they bring beauty, fragrance, and joy, and that truly is what Jesus brings to us with his life when we invite him into our lives. As a reminder that life comes by the Spirit of God, we will add white doves to our garlands this year. Hear again the words of life now.
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-4 and Colossians 1:16-20
Narrator: Several families have volunteered to hang our evergreens at this time. As they work, we will hear a carol of worship.
Solo: "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence"
Hanging The Evergreens
III. The Spirit Of Peace: Adding White Poinsettias
Narrator: Another fresh touch this year is found in the delicate white poinsettia plants, which have been dressed for this occasion. White is the color of peace, the absence of conflict and challenge. We have chosen white this year to carry out our theme, "The Spirit Of Christmas." (If individual families provided the plants, explain by whom and for whom the plants have been purchased, and thank the appropriate persons.)
Minister: Just as Jesus is our life, and Jesus is our hope, so also Jesus is our peace. He made peace between God and us when we were far away and alienated. And he continues to make peace between factions of humankind trying to share this planet space. Hear again the words from the apostle Paul.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:14-18 and Luke 2:14
Congregational Carol: "I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day"
Placing The Poinsettias
(During the singing, ask the families who purchased plants, or another designated group, to bring them forward and place them at the appointed locations. If an offering is to be taken, ushers may be instructed to come forward on the final verse of the carol.)
Offering
Special Music: "Lord, Make Me An Instrument Of Thy Peace"
IV. The Spirit Of Sharing: Decorating The Tree
Narrator: One of the most individual of all our home decorations is our Christmas tree. Each family has a unique collection of ornaments. Some are specialized: all angels, all handmade, all Chrismons, all a certain color. Others are assortments: things the children have made through the years, things handed down from generations, gifts from friends.
Minister: It is this uniqueness that will make our tree very special this year. Families who wish to do so will share their personal ornaments for the tree. This means our tree will be gifted with a variety that reflects the rich diversity of our congregation; but which also shows the oneness we experience when we are together. We will call it a "Spirit of Sharing" tree. Let's think again of the prayer of Jesus for his church, and the admonition of Paul to the Ephesians.
Scripture Reading: John 17:20-23 and Ephesians 4:2-6
Narrator: If you have family ornaments to share, do that as we sing the next song. Others who wish to help may come and place the smaller white doves over the tree. Someone may climb the ladder and put the larger dove on the highest boughs. Then we will plug in the lights and enjoy our very unique "Spirit of Sharing Tree."
Quiet Music: "We Are One In The Bond Of Love"
(as worshipers decorate the tree)
Decorating The Christmas Tree
V. The Spirit Of Celebration: Hanging The Banners
Narrator: Christmas remains one of the happiest seasons of the year. We celebrate many gifts all through the month: the gift of family and friends, the joy of giving, the fun of social gatherings. And we count our blessings as we look for those who have unusual needs and try to make their season happier, also. Joy and celebration are deeper for Christians than for others, because the spirit of the season is confirmed by the Spirit of God who lives within us. While others celebrate through the events and trappings, we celebrate with an inner joy that comes from Jesus himself.
Minister: Listen to these occasions of celebration from the familiar Bible stories.
Scripture Readings: (by the Minister or a series of Readers)
Luke 1:46-49 -- Mary, when she heard she would bear the Savior
Luke 1:67-69 -- Zechariah, when John the Baptist was born
Luke 2:13-14 -- the angels, announcing Jesus' birth
Luke 2:20 -- the shepherds, when they saw the baby
Luke 2:28-32 -- the old prophet, Simeon, when he held the baby
Narrator: As we join together in a wonderful carol of celebration, our banner bearers (name the group selected to carry and hang the banners this year) will bring our Christmas banners and hang them for us.
Hanging The Christmas Banners
Congregational Carol: "Joy To The World! The Lord Is Come"
(During this carol, those who will bring the lighted votive candles should assemble quietly in the back of the worship room. Ask someone to be there with a lighted candle to light their votives as they get ready to bring them forward.)
VI. The Spirit Of Love: Reading The Christmas Story
Narrator: The room is almost ready, and it is time now to read the true story of Christmas from the Bible to our children. (Invite all small children to join you on the platform. House lights are dimmed to about 30% of full.) We have asked our middle school children (or another group, such as grandparents) to bring the lighted votive candles. If you would, please come now and stand on either side of the platform. We will read by your light.
Minister: As our candlelighters come, I will begin reading for you the greatest story of love ever told: the Christmas narrative from Luke. (Reads by candlelight and dimmed room light.)
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
Congregational Carol: "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (chorus only)
(Candlelighters place candles in designated places, such as on the platform railings, as the congregation sings.)
Placing The Candles
Benediction Praise Song: "Shine, Jesus, Shine" (chorus only)
Churches can begin the tradition of hanging the greens with a very small investment. A modest nest egg can be hatched into a very satisfying event when a handful of creative people incubate it. Here are the basic elements for beginning.
The Greens
As the name tells us, we hang evergreens (and other appropriate decorations we may choose to add to them) to enhance our holiday worship events. Garlands, wreaths, and sprays are the beginning place. These can be either artificial or natural greens, and a good case can be made for each. Some advantages of the artificial greens are: 1) fire safety, 2) their reusability, and 3) convenience.
Every worship room is unique and offers wonderfully creative opportunities to decorate. Think about wreaths and garlands for the platform area: railings around the choir, instrument boxes, baptistry. Lovely sprays might be added high on either side of the front. Festive matching bows will tie these together by color and design. Later, doves, poinsettias, or silk ornaments could be added to the greens. Already the room looks beautiful! When members with actual floral arranging skills come into the picture, a wonderland can result. Balconies, windows, pews, doorways, and aisles can be included.
Advent Wreath
One way to add interaction between congregation and worship leaders during the four Sundays leading up to Christmas is by having an Advent wreath. Traditionally this is an 18- to 24-inch evergreen wreath laid flat on or near the remembrance table, with four colored candles standing evenly spaced within it, and a larger, white Christ Candle in the center. A candle is lighted each week to "count down" the weeks of Advent, so that on the first Sunday only one candle is lighted, on the second Sunday two are lighted, and so on.
Each candle is assigned a significance, such as the Candle of Hope, the Candle of Joy, the Candle of Peace, and the Candle of Love. Families and individuals may take turns lighting the candles each Sunday during worship. The large Christ Candle is lighted Christmas Eve or Christmas morning when the congregation gathers.
As an alternative to the evergreen wreath, five large candles (four colored and one white) can be placed at varying heights on the draped remembrance table. It is effective to use brass candleholders with these, and satin or velvet are attractive fabrics for a drape. A poinsettia, evergreen spray, large Bible, or Nativity figures may also be added. You will find the Advent wreath or candles called for in all of the programs in this book.
Christmas Tree
A stately tree adds a focal point to the room. Sometimes it is tasteful to keep the tree a little sophisticated by using only white lights and gold or white decorations. The tree does not have to be very large and showy. A smaller tree (perhaps six to eight feet tall) can be put on a small covered platform to give it necessary height. Carry the spiritual themes of Christmas onto the tree with doves, Chrismons or Nativity symbols, and matching bows. The tree is a perfect illustration of how congregations can begin simply and add to the collection each year. Members with a creative bent would love a Chrismon workshop at some convenient time in the future -- something we will talk more about in this chapter.
Other Decorations
As hanging the greens catches on, you will think of other items that can be added to the collection. Joyful worship banners, bright poinsettias in festive wraps, a set of Nativity figures (we chose one the children could handle freely), and votive candles are examples. If money for decorating is limited (a certain bet in most congregations!), Sunday school classes or other groups in the congregation might contribute modest amounts, especially as they see the tradition growing.
Music
This is what turns the occasion from a decorating party into a worship experience. Sometimes hanging the greens is more like a musical event or choir recital, with decorating woven throughout the program. Sometimes it is more like a decorating party, with times of reflection created by congregational singing and special presentations. Variation from year to year increases the congregation's interest. The key word here is cooperation. Ministers, musicians, laypersons, and artists all combine to make an event that glorifies God and delights worshipers.
The Children
Focus especially on the children and youth of the church family. Include them in several ways. In fact, make them the stars -- give them the best seats. What a wonderful way to communicate Bible truths and valued traditions to the emerging congregation! Invite them to sing, to decorate the tree, to come onto the platform with the pastor for the reading of the Christmas story from the Bible. Take time in Sunday school to help them make Chrismons for the tree. Choose them for candlelighters. Plan a family fellowship after hanging the greens with child-friendly refreshments and goodie sacks. Build memories and faith in the children of the congregation. Make it fun!
Drama
It's the icing on the cake! Bring in Bible persons from Nativity stories and the adventure becomes almost mystical. Invite a couple of angels and the event takes on a life of its own. Drama workshops can begin by researching Nativity narratives in the prophets and the gospels. While dramas may take some license to create contexts or elaborate on the scriptures, they must remain true to the known facts in every way. One trained drama coach will help immensely here.
Bring it all together, and once you have experienced it, Christmas will never be the same without hanging the greens!
Planning For Creative Workshops
We are all creative beings, made in the image of a Creator God. Creating is enjoyable, affirming, inspiring, spending valuable time together, watching and helping as imaginations come to life. Relationships develop as creations evolve. Here are five ideas for workshops that will enhance Christmas worship and hanging the greens if you choose to try it in your church. (They do not have to all be done in the same year.)
Banner Making
Invite those who enjoy design, stitchery, quilting, and fabric art to put their heads together and come up with a set of Christmas worship banners. One nice set can be used for years, and the investment can be quite reasonable. Choose a theme, such as the names for Jesus in the Christmas stories (Jesus, Savior, Only Begotten Son, Immanuel, Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father). Select a Chrismon symbol to illustrate each, and transpose that onto handmade, matching banners of felt, taffeta, or satin.
Affix a T-shaped pole to each banner so it can be easily carried and positioned. Decide on the locations for hanging banners. Install fasteners on which to hang the banners. Good locations may be found on walls, beams and pillars, or balcony rails. Wonderful banner books are available in Christian bookstores that detail this kind of project, and one of these would be a worthwhile investment for beginners. An entire hanging the greens program can be built around the presentation of the banners.
Music Rehearsals
The possibilities here are limited only by the availability of the choral director. Choirs, ensembles, instrumental groups, or soloists can select and prepare music to make hanging the greens truly a worship celebration. Visualize handbells ringing, harps and flutes playing, children's choirs performing, all to the glory of God in the joy of the season. In some churches the adult choir or the youth choir is the loft choir for this service, freeing the sanctuary choir to work on the cantata or musical extravaganza planned for another date.
Include the choral director early in planning stages, so that music selected can enhance the theme of the program. Often anthems and special music being prepared for other worship events of the season can be used in this program also -- an important economy in such a busy month.
Many suggestions for congregational songs, carols, and praise songs and for special music presentations are made throughout this book. Congregations have widely varied preferences and resources, and music leaders will want to substitute other music when it would fit their needs better. Music should enhance the theme of the event as much as possible.
Chrismon Making
The many ancient and modern Christian symbols or monograms (hence Chrismons) for God are illustrated in banner-making books, also. Some are Greek letters like the Alpha and Omega, which have stood for the names and attributes of God for centuries. Others are pictographs like the dove, the fish, a star, a manger, a lamp. You will need to purchase a set of Chrismon patterns.*
Chrismons are made into Christmas tree ornaments in many ways. Children can use thin styrofoam (cut by adults using a hot wire) into Chrismon shapes, and decorate them with glitter, beads, and sequins. Silk Christmas balls look lovely enhanced with beads, sequins, and braids in Chrismon designs. Felt or fabric can be cut into Chrismon shapes, sewn, stuffed with polyfill and decorated. These are among the easiest kinds to make, and all will last for years if carefully stored.
Floral Arranging
While lovely wreaths, garlands, and sprays may be purchased at craft and discount centers, they are made lovelier by experienced hands. A benefit of creative workshops is that those who know how can pass on their knowledge to willing beginners, and these skills will be useful all year long. Consider having an expert floral arranger come and guide a group of your willing members in making matching arrangements and bows for your auditorium worship area.
A Checklist For Hanging The Greens
Getting from enthusiastic ideas to a well-organized worship event requires a series of intentional steps. One plan of action follows.
1. Coordinate With Your Ministers
Laypersons who initiate an idea such as hanging the greens will want to begin by sharing with those who plan worship and family events. If the idea is well received, set a date and time on the approved church calendar. We prefer the first Sunday evening of Advent, which is usually the Sunday following Thanksgiving. (It is helpful to discuss whether the decorations will be disturbed -- "undecorated" if you will -- for weddings, funerals, or other scheduled worship and music events which occur in December.) Hanging the greens can happen during evening worship or perhaps before or after that hour.
2. Select A Theme Or Program
Coordination of decorations, music, and drama will be better if everyone knows in advance what the flavor and purpose of the event will be. Programs like the one following this section are a possible beginning place. If this is a new venture for your church, consider using a rather traditional service. This will provide a better opportunity for the congregation to become educated about the meanings of this tradition.
3. Enlist A Leadership Team
Enthusiasm, participation, and ideas are fostered by shared leadership. The person designated as the primary (coordinating) leader will benefit from enlisting a skilled person to be in charge of decorations, another for music, another for program or drama, and perhaps a fourth person to plan a fellowship after the event. Let these people form a planning committee for the event.
4. Prepare The Script
Any program chosen will have to be adapted to your own congregation's needs. The architecture of the worship room, the available resources, budget, time, and other constraints will dictate changes. Work through the program with your committee and musicians. When you are satisfied, have your complete script printed for everyone on the planning group.
5. Schedule Workshops
If you plan to involve church members in creativity like banner and Chrismon making, drama, music, or floral arranging, schedule working sessions. (It may take three or four work sessions for each of these groups to complete their work.) Allow enough lead time to promote these in the congregation, so that those who are interested will not miss the opportunity.
You will immediately see that these workshops are a natural way to draw in peripheral members and nonmember friends. The fellowship of working with others may help bring them into the church family and the kingdom. Send invitations to recent visitors and absentee members. Make a list of members with a creative bent, and make personal phone calls to ask for their help. Workshops can have many rewarding spin-offs.
6. Budget And Purchase Needed Supplies
Remember, it may be well to begin simply and add to the event each year. The evergreens are the first items to buy. If there are no funds for making Chrismons the first year, ask each family to bring one or two favorite ornaments for a "Friendship" tree representative of the congregation.
7. Let The Creativity Happen
Gently guide the workshops, and delight in how the combined creativity of members and friends blossoms into unique love gifts to the Lord. The coordinating leader will keep things moving along and affirm others as things progress toward completion.
8. Stay In Touch With Ministers
Plans and ideas have a way of evolving. Keep communication frequent and open. Be flexible when changes are needed. Focus on bringing joy to the congregation and glory to the Lord in all areas of the event.
If there is to be a printed program, put all necessary information in the hands of the secretary or typist in ample time.
9. Schedule Time To Prepare The Worship Room
On the day of hanging the greens, time is needed actually to get all the decorations, drama props, microphones, and other equipment out and in place. The planning committee and a handyman or custodian comprise the workforce.
Our preference is to spend about two hours in the afternoon (following morning worship, if this takes place Sunday evening). Place garlands, sprays, and wreaths on the floor, just below where they will be hung. Place the hooks or nails that will hold them into walls or rails, each with an ornament wire attached, so members can easily and quickly place greens at the appropriate time in the service. It may be possible to do some of these details the week prior, taking part of the work load off the actual day of the event.
If written assignments to families or team leaders will be needed during the service, prepare these ahead. (See "Hanging The Greens Assignment Sheet" illustration at the end of this chapter.) Put lights on the Christmas tree, attach an extension cord, and try them out. Place ornaments near the tree at "child level" with hanger wires attached. Have the ladder nearby so older children can climb up to decorate higher branches.
When fresh poinsettias are to be used, be sure they are dressed in protective jackets so moisture will not mar the furnishings. If candles are called for, have a lighter or matches ready, and check wicks. Carefully read over the program script again and list every detail that needs your attention. It will be time well spent.
10. Host Hanging The Greens In A Spirit Of Joy
In all the fuss and fun of preparing, set a spirit of joy that will be caught by worshipers. All the hours of work are lost if a fussy spirit prevails. It may be wise for the coordinating leader not to be an "up-front" platform personality. In this way he or she can move quietly among the worshipers to answer questions and keep things on schedule. It is more important for the congregation to feel happy with what they accomplish, than for every bow to be in place. Garlands, bows, and decorations can be adjusted tomorrow.
11. Be Available During The Season
Touch-ups will be needed, especially if some decorations have to be removed for other events. Keep a happy spirit -- it's almost fun to get to redo things a time or two or three. (Sometimes church leaders request that other events incorporate and enjoy the worship room decorations during the holidays and leave them undisturbed. This differs from church to church.)
Let your final act be that of writing or phoning a message of thanks to all who helped make the event successful.
____________
*CSS Publishing Company has two resources that include patterns for Chrismons: A Chrismon Service by Ellen and James Edgar, ISBN 0-89536-500-6; and Chrismons -- They Point To Jesus by Diane L. Gibson, ISBN 0-7880-0849-8.
Hanging The Greens Assignment Sheet
Note To Team Leaders
We will divide the auditorium into eight work areas as numbered on the following sketch. You will be the leader of everyone sitting in your area. Your team's assignment is circled on the list below.
Your second assignment is to help when the children decorate the Christmas tree. When it is time, gather up all the children in your section (with enough moms and dads to help) and take them to the tree. Let each child put one or more ornaments on the tree.
Teams And Assignments
Team 1: Hang garlands around the piano box railing and hang spray above piano. (Nails are in place.)
Team 2: Hang garlands around the organ box railing and hang spray above organ. (Nails are in place.)
Team 3: Hang three wreaths on the east auditorium wall. (Nails are in place.)
Team 4: Hang two garlands and bows over SE entry door (D-4) as shown in the sketch.
Team 5: Hang two garlands and bows over NE entry door (D-1) as shown in the sketch.
Team 6: Hang three wreaths on west auditorium wall. (Nails are in place.)
Team 7: Hang two garlands and bows over north entry door (D-2) as shown in the sketch.
Team 8: Hang two garlands and bows over NW entry door (D-3) as shown in the sketch.
Note About Doorway Garlands
Note that three nails are already in place at top center and corners of door frame. Begin both garlands at top center, and drape one toward each corner and down the side of the door, using corner nails as holders. You will find ornament wires on nails and on backs of bows to help you fasten garlands securely.
____________
For examples of these illustrations, see printed book. Create your copy of pages 53 and 54 as a one-page handout for your team leaders.
Order Of Worship
Welcome The Spirit Of Christmas
Description Of This Program
Visualize the true spirit of Christmas by adding lovely white doves and white poinsettias to the traditional hanging the greens decor. Families can each contribute one or two ornaments from their personal collections to create a "Spirit of Sharing" tree.
Characters Needed
Narrator -- may read all the explanations and direct the decorating
Minister -- reads some narrations and the Bible passages throughout Choral Director -- arranges and leads congregational and special music
Volunteer Families -- four to eight families who will hang portions of the evergreens
Preparations
Carefully make a detailed list of the usual preparations for hanging the greens. The choices you make in decorations will indicate how this program needs to be adapted for your congregation.
Each year your church may want to add something to the collection of available decorations. This year's suggested purchase is white doves. You will need one for each wreath and each garland bow plus one or more for the Christmas tree. Plan for one larger dove to top the tree. A dozen others could be used with the decorations, scattered throughout the boughs.
Purchase enough ribbon to make new bows. Bows of gold net, or gold and white fabric, would complement the white doves. Light blue or another pastel is also a good choice. Two kinds of ribbon, such as a gold lamé and a gold and pastel tapestry, can be used together by someone with floral skills.
When using white doves, we chose also white poinsettias. These are more delicate than the traditional red flowers and will require more tending and careful watering during the month. If they are your choice, plan to have someone carry the plants to a room with natural light and climate control on weekdays unless your worship room has those features. When flower funds are low, consider inviting families in the church to purchase a poinsettia in honor or memory of someone, or asking classes to purchase plants that will later be taken to homebound members. The list of those so honored may be printed in one of the church's publications during the season.
If a "Spirit of Sharing" tree fits into your plans, announce about three Sundays in advance of the program that each family is invited to bring two ornaments from their personal collections for the tree. It is possible to return these after Christmas by putting them in baskets and letting members come to an announced location to reclaim their own. Remember to have extra ornament wires on hand for the hanging the greens event.
Prepare the assignment sheet (on page 53 and 54) for each of the families that will hang the greens, so they understand just what part of the decorating falls to them. Also enlist people to light the Advent candle and others to carry banners. Note that the poinsettias may be brought by those who purchased them. Enlist a group to bring votive candles, and make necessary arrangements for someone to help them light their candles just before they are brought to the worship area.
Music
Quiet background music, simple carols, and worship choruses are suggested, with two special music offerings, which you may substitute for your choice. This is a good program for a busy year when the choirs are involved in other pursuits and time to work on music is limited.
Order Of Program
Quiet Music: "Sweet, Sweet Spirit"
(Minister welcomes everyone warmly and asks that families sit together during the singing of the first song, so that family groups can work as units during the evening. Add that "family" in the church always refers to any kind of grouping: single parents with children, empty nesters, families with three or four generations represented, groups of single friends, or parents with children. Encourage families to "adopt" people near them who are without family in the service.)
Congregational Song: "The Family Of God"
Prayer: (by Minister)
I. The Spirit Of Hope: Lighting The Advent Candle
Narrator: Each year about this time we hear people say, "I haven't got the Christmas spirit yet," or "I just can't seem to get the Christmas spirit this year." It takes a while -- some years longer than others. But eventually, as we hear the carols on radios and department store intercoms, and see the tinseled trees and counters bulging with gift suggestions, we begin to recapture the feelings of Christmases past and the spirit returns.
As Christians we look for something more in Christmas than these material and tangible offerings: something deeper -- a touchback to the original event -- a spirit of hope from God's own heart. Walking through Christmas on Main Street, we miss the hope of the season -- the promise of a precious Savior Son who would become the Lamb of God, sent to take away the sins of the world. This hope is the core of the Christmas spirit for us who believe.
Minister: It is this deeper spirit -- this echo of worship from earlier Christmases -- that we seek tonight as we hang the greens. We will welcome back some old friends: the Advent candles, evergreen garlands, Christmas tree, carols, and candles, as well as, certainly the familiar Bible stories and passages. Tonight we will introduce as new friends some white doves and white poinsettias to symbolize the true spirit of the season.
Over generations, Christians have associated the white dove with God's own Holy Spirit. It was by that Spirit that "the Word became flesh" and was born of the Virgin Mary. It was through the Spirit that our hope turned to realization and joy. Listen again to that story tonight.
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:26-38
Congregational Praise Song: "Father, I Adore You"
(As the song is sung, the family enlisted to light the Advent candle comes forward.)
Lighting The Advent Candle Of Hope
II. The Spirit Of Life: Hanging The Evergreens
Narrator: The evergreen garlands and wreaths are "old friends" at Christmas. They bring life to our room, which calls to mind the life God gives us through the Savior, Jesus. With that life they bring beauty, fragrance, and joy, and that truly is what Jesus brings to us with his life when we invite him into our lives. As a reminder that life comes by the Spirit of God, we will add white doves to our garlands this year. Hear again the words of life now.
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-4 and Colossians 1:16-20
Narrator: Several families have volunteered to hang our evergreens at this time. As they work, we will hear a carol of worship.
Solo: "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence"
Hanging The Evergreens
III. The Spirit Of Peace: Adding White Poinsettias
Narrator: Another fresh touch this year is found in the delicate white poinsettia plants, which have been dressed for this occasion. White is the color of peace, the absence of conflict and challenge. We have chosen white this year to carry out our theme, "The Spirit Of Christmas." (If individual families provided the plants, explain by whom and for whom the plants have been purchased, and thank the appropriate persons.)
Minister: Just as Jesus is our life, and Jesus is our hope, so also Jesus is our peace. He made peace between God and us when we were far away and alienated. And he continues to make peace between factions of humankind trying to share this planet space. Hear again the words from the apostle Paul.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:14-18 and Luke 2:14
Congregational Carol: "I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day"
Placing The Poinsettias
(During the singing, ask the families who purchased plants, or another designated group, to bring them forward and place them at the appointed locations. If an offering is to be taken, ushers may be instructed to come forward on the final verse of the carol.)
Offering
Special Music: "Lord, Make Me An Instrument Of Thy Peace"
IV. The Spirit Of Sharing: Decorating The Tree
Narrator: One of the most individual of all our home decorations is our Christmas tree. Each family has a unique collection of ornaments. Some are specialized: all angels, all handmade, all Chrismons, all a certain color. Others are assortments: things the children have made through the years, things handed down from generations, gifts from friends.
Minister: It is this uniqueness that will make our tree very special this year. Families who wish to do so will share their personal ornaments for the tree. This means our tree will be gifted with a variety that reflects the rich diversity of our congregation; but which also shows the oneness we experience when we are together. We will call it a "Spirit of Sharing" tree. Let's think again of the prayer of Jesus for his church, and the admonition of Paul to the Ephesians.
Scripture Reading: John 17:20-23 and Ephesians 4:2-6
Narrator: If you have family ornaments to share, do that as we sing the next song. Others who wish to help may come and place the smaller white doves over the tree. Someone may climb the ladder and put the larger dove on the highest boughs. Then we will plug in the lights and enjoy our very unique "Spirit of Sharing Tree."
Quiet Music: "We Are One In The Bond Of Love"
(as worshipers decorate the tree)
Decorating The Christmas Tree
V. The Spirit Of Celebration: Hanging The Banners
Narrator: Christmas remains one of the happiest seasons of the year. We celebrate many gifts all through the month: the gift of family and friends, the joy of giving, the fun of social gatherings. And we count our blessings as we look for those who have unusual needs and try to make their season happier, also. Joy and celebration are deeper for Christians than for others, because the spirit of the season is confirmed by the Spirit of God who lives within us. While others celebrate through the events and trappings, we celebrate with an inner joy that comes from Jesus himself.
Minister: Listen to these occasions of celebration from the familiar Bible stories.
Scripture Readings: (by the Minister or a series of Readers)
Luke 1:46-49 -- Mary, when she heard she would bear the Savior
Luke 1:67-69 -- Zechariah, when John the Baptist was born
Luke 2:13-14 -- the angels, announcing Jesus' birth
Luke 2:20 -- the shepherds, when they saw the baby
Luke 2:28-32 -- the old prophet, Simeon, when he held the baby
Narrator: As we join together in a wonderful carol of celebration, our banner bearers (name the group selected to carry and hang the banners this year) will bring our Christmas banners and hang them for us.
Hanging The Christmas Banners
Congregational Carol: "Joy To The World! The Lord Is Come"
(During this carol, those who will bring the lighted votive candles should assemble quietly in the back of the worship room. Ask someone to be there with a lighted candle to light their votives as they get ready to bring them forward.)
VI. The Spirit Of Love: Reading The Christmas Story
Narrator: The room is almost ready, and it is time now to read the true story of Christmas from the Bible to our children. (Invite all small children to join you on the platform. House lights are dimmed to about 30% of full.) We have asked our middle school children (or another group, such as grandparents) to bring the lighted votive candles. If you would, please come now and stand on either side of the platform. We will read by your light.
Minister: As our candlelighters come, I will begin reading for you the greatest story of love ever told: the Christmas narrative from Luke. (Reads by candlelight and dimmed room light.)
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
Congregational Carol: "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (chorus only)
(Candlelighters place candles in designated places, such as on the platform railings, as the congregation sings.)
Placing The Candles
Benediction Praise Song: "Shine, Jesus, Shine" (chorus only)
