What a joy it is to be right where we are today, in a sanctuary decorated for Advent! There’s a lot of tradition represented here: the Advent wreath, the rich color of the paraments, the joyous words of celebration sewn onto the banners.

            In many of our homes, this is the time for getting out some traditional decorations as well — or at least thinking about fetching them from the attic or the basement. Soon — if they’re not up already — the wreaths and garlands will hang from their usual nails. The candles will shed their warm glow and bayberry scent. The Christmas tree will assume its usual place. Some of us even trundle out whole sets of glassware or dishes, the ones with the Christmas pattern.

            Just think of the popular songs of the season — not the carols so much as those beloved secular songs. So many of them are about keeping Christmas just the same as ever:

• “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, just like the ones I used to know ...”
• “I heard the bells on Christmas Day, their old familiar carols play ...”
• “There’s no place like home for the holidays ...”

            It’s a great thing to celebrate tradition at holiday time. God knows, there are many rapid changes overtaking our world. It’s no wonder we want to hold tight to tradition!

            And so we make sure our Christmas is softly lit by candlelight reflected off brass, cushioned by red velvet and serenaded by soft carols (from discreetly hidden stereo speakers). Oh yes, a crackling fire is a nice touch, if you can manage it.

More than traditional

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