Many people call this “the Christmas season” or perhaps, “the
holiday season.” Actually, according to the traditional Christian
calendar, the four-week period preceding Christmas is known as
“Advent,” from the Latin word for “coming.”
Many people call this “the Christmas season” or perhaps, “the holiday season.” Actually, according to the traditional Christian calendar, the four-week period preceding Christmas is known as “Advent,” from the Latin word for “coming.”
It is a time set aside not only to prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus, but also to prepare for “the second coming of Christ at the last day.”
The First Presbyterian Church of Hollister (2066 San Benito St.) will be presenting an original musical drama on Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. It is entitled “Operation Emmanel.”
Emmanuel (also spelled “Immanuel”) is a Hebrew word meaning “with us is God.” It is used by the prophet Isaiah, and in the Gospel of Matthew it refers to the birth of Jesus as the Messiah.
“Operation Emmanuel” is no “cute little Christmas pageant,” according to its author and director, Vanessa Hughes. It is a humorous but serious attempt to shed some light on one of the themes of the Christmas story.
The plot revolves around Gabriel, who has recently been promoted to Archangel status. He has been assigned to oversee the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, but he is not very competent yet at his job, allowing numerous mishaps to occur. Finally the Archangel Michael comes and shows us that God’s plans will work out despite the foolish and inept actions of mortals and even angels.
“Project Emmanuel” has been in production since August. The show has a costumed cast of 40 and a crew which consists of “almost the entire congregation,” says Hughes, referring to the widespread support given the production. Vocalists are accompanied by guitars, piano and keyboard, both live and recorded.
The audience is invited to enjoy a meal served in the church’s multipurpose building one hour before each performance; after the show refreshments will be served during a time of fellowship. Although there is no admission charge, donations will be gladly accepted. For more information call (831) 637-4350.
Many other churches are hosting events open to the public during the next few weeks. Today I will highlight some of these opportunities for preparation.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph (80 South Market St.) presents “Season of Hope,” a series of free concerts offered nightly at 7:30 p.m. from Dec. 12 through 23. It is described as a “multicultural musical event for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.” Here are a few examples: Dec. 12, Notre Dame High School Music Ministry; Dec. 13, San Jose Youth Symphony; Dec. 16, Marantha Hope of Glory Choir; Dec. 22, San Jose State University Guitar Quartet; Dec. 23, Diocese of San Jose Choir. Call (408) 283-8100 extension 2205 for more information.
For the 10th year, Santa Clara First Baptist Church (3111 Benton St.) offers “Bethlehem: Experience the Birth” from Dec. 11 through 15. The church’s parking lot is transformed by 150 tons of sand, 100 costumed actors and live animals into a scene reminiscent of Bethlehem 2,000 years ago. Visitors stroll through the streets watching craftspeople, sipping hot beverages and following the holy family as the Christ child is born in a stable while attended by angels and shepherds.
Each show ends with familiar Christmas carols. Five 30-minute performances are held each night beginning at 6:30; children will be amazed at the spectacle. For more information call (408) 241-7635.
A poignant element of the Christmas story is the arrival of Joseph and Mary in Bethlehem, seeking lodging at an inn, finally being forced to spend the night in a stable. Mexicans traditionally reenact this experience by staging a “Posada,” a symbolic reenactment of the holy family seeking shelter.
Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County invites everyone to a “celebration of faith and cultural diversity” on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 5 p.m. Participants will walk though a neighborhood in East San Jose, returning to Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church (2040 Nassau Drive) for a potluck dinner. Bring a flashlight and food to share. For more information call (408) 325-5262.
Morgan Hill’s Advent Lutheran Church (16870 Murphy Ave.) will host “Christ’s Call to Healing,” a presentation by The Rev. Barry Brunsman, Ph.D., to learn more about the healing ministry that is central to the teaching of Jesus.
Father Barry, director of the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, is a gifted healer and best-selling author. There is no admission charge to attend this 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. event on Dec. 13, but a free-will offering will be available. For more information call (408) 779-3551.
