Archives: Whose Birthday Is It, Anyway? #4INTRODUCTION: WHAT YOU CAN DO |
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INTRODUCTION
In the weeks preceding the celebration of Christ's birth, we are bombarded with images of a "good" Christmas. Unfortunately, these images have little to do with either reality or faith. With such energy and cultural trappings in December, when Christmas does come, it often finds us spiritually, emotionally and financially exhausted. Vague feelings of guilt about misspent energy and resources often undermine the great joy and renewal we could experience at the celebration of Christ's birth.
This resource was designed to assist you in resisting cultural pressures so that you can experience genuine joy and renewal.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
In Your Home:
- SET ASIDE TIME TO CONDUCT EACH WEEKLY SESSION. The reflections, services and activities are designed to be used at family gatherings or during private devotions. Ask those who might be alone to share in your times of worship each week. (The sessions begin on page 3.)
- CONSIDER NEW WAYS OF GIVING. Use the giving calendar and the special giving suggestions to learn more about meaningful gift-giving practices. Encourage children to do the giving activities. (See pages 14-17.)
- LEARN ABOUT THE SAINT NICHOLAS TRADITION. Read how one family welcomed Saint Nicholas into their celebrations. (See pages 18-20.)
- EXAMINE THE TOYS YOU GIVE TO CHILDREN. Learn more about war toys and alternatives that promote peace and justice. (See pages 21-23).
In Your Parish:
- MAKE THIS RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO ALL THE HOUSEHOLDS IN YOUR CHURCH.
- PLAN OTHER CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN YOUR CONGREGATION. Using resources available in Alternatives' Christmas Packet, What Is A Gift?, organize an intergenerational workshop, a play or an Epiphany celebration. You might also schedule a showing of the video, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. (See pages 29-31.)
- LOOK AHEAD TO EASTER. Begin now to think about alternative ways to observe the Lent and Easter season. (See page 30.)
Many More Interesting Christmas Articles
Page updated 22 October 2012
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