Advent in the Lutheran Church in Beit Sahour

Celebrating Advent in Beit Sahour

Sunday the second of December was a special day for the Lutheran congregation of Beit Sahour, with a special early evening worship service. Celebrating the first Sunday in Advent is a custom that the congregation loves, as we gather in the evening lifting hearts and voices, sharing hymns, gospel readings, and meditations.  All of this prepares and reminds the faithful hearts and souls of the coming of the Prince of Peace and love, and this year was no different.
By six o’clock the congregation was gathered in the sanctuary that was decorated by the lights of candles. Sounds of church bells, lighting the first candle on the advent wreath and lifting up a hymn of thanksgiving marked the eagerness of the congregation for this hour of worship.
After the worship service the congregation gathered in the church hall sharing some snacks and a glass of wine discussing and sharing together.  The warmth and joy of the season and their love for one another other shone through some of the lamenting over the hardships of the current situation, and the joy of Advent was the celebrating mood of that evening.

Thanks to Vicar Imad Haddad for writing this entry and sending the photos!