The holiday shopping season has certainly begun, judging from the decorations seen in local stores and the sales being advertised. However, this is not the “Christmas season” itself because, according to the traditional Christian calendar, that begins on Dec. 25 and continues through Jan. 5 (the famous “12 Days of Christmas”).
Actually, we are in the traditional liturgical season of “Advent,” a period which begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (Nov. 30 this year) and continues until midnight Dec. 24. For centuries, this season has been set aside to solemnly prepare for observing the birth of Jesus of Nazareth and for “anticipating the fulfillment of his promise to return in power and great glory.”
Here are some opportunities to begin sharing the Christmas spirit:
*South County residents are invited to attend an annual Community Christmas Concert, “The Greatest Gift,” on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Stake Center, 1790 E. Dunne Ave. in Morgan Hill. More than two decades ago this event had its origin as a performance held by and for local Mormons. As word of the concert spread, other friends and neighbors began to attend; the focus changed to making it a truly community event.
For the past several years the concert has been co-sponsored with St. Catherine Roman Catholic Church. This cooperative effort serves as a witness to the ideal of Christian unity: members of very different traditions coming together to share the Christmas spirit with each other and to provide seasonal entertainment to the whole community.
This year will include performances by harpist Aubree Arrington, violinist Cecily Jenkins and groups such as the South Valley Suzuki String Academy, Music in Motion and choirs from St. Catherine, the local LDS Church and Oakwood School. (Free admission)
*In Hollister, the LDS Church is sponsoring its fifth annual Community Christmas Concert at San Benito High School, 1220 Monterey St., on Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. Traditional holiday music will be provided by the South Valley Suzuki String Academy, harpist Aubrey Arrington, several local choirs and soloists, a mariachi band and the locally well-loved Mr. O’s Jazz Band. (Free admission)
*The 27th annual Christmas Crèche Exhibit will be held at the LDS Church at 3865 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, Dec. 6-10 from noon to 9 p.m. There will be more than 350 nativities from around the world on display in a festive holiday setting, plus a children’s room with costumes, crafts and marionette shows; music will be provided by choirs and instrumental groups. (Free admission)
*Mission San Juan Bautista, 406 Second St., will host the annual performance of “La Virgen del Tepeyac” performed by El Teatro Campesino Nov. 28-Dec. 21. This performance retells through music and dance the story of the appearance of The Virgin of Guadalupe and is a seasonal favorite. For tickets call (831) 623-0244.
*Guests can experience First Century Bethlehem as Santa Clara First Baptist Church, 3111 Benton St., transforms its campus for a reenactment of the nativity Dec. 11-15 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Joseph and Mary progress through dusty streets crowded with costumed Roman soldiers, camels and farm animals, ending at a stage where angels, shepherds and Magi visit the Baby Jesus to the accompaniment of Christmas carols. Hot chocolate and children’s craft opportunities are available between the 30-minute performances. (Free admission.)
