Advent and Christmas
The Church year begins with the season of Advent, 4 weeks before Christmas. Considered a reflective and meditative season of preparation, Advent at Central Moravian Church also carries with it the joyful anticipation of Christ's coming.
Each Sunday during Advent, another candle is lighted on the Advent wreath by a member or member family of the congregation. At the front of the sanctuary and in the Old Chapel, the Advent star hanging above is a reminder of the star that led the wise men to the manger in Bethlehem.
The first Sunday in Advent includes the celebration of Lovefeast, a simple meal of a bun and beverage served within the worship service, in the midst of the singing of Advent hymns by the congregation and Advent anthems by the choir. A specially written liturgy for the Third Sunday in Advent is a beloved tradition at Central Church. On the fourth Sunday, the congregation enjoys a service of Lessons and Carols, with familiar scripture passages and hymns that tell the Christmas story.
Christmas Eve at Central Moravian Church is a unique opportunity for members and community friends alike to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.
At one o'clock in the afternoon, a Children's Lovefeast and candleservice is held. The children's choir leads the congregation in the singing of traditional carols and anthems.
At the two Vigil services, at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., worshippers are struck by the richness of the classical music offered in praise of the newborn Christ. The Central Choir, under the direction of Rebecca Kleintop Owens, presents a thrilling program of music unlike most other Christmas Eve services. Lighted beeswax candles, trimmed in red frills are distributed to the congregation. At the closing hymn, the people are invited to stand and raise their candles on high for the benediction by the Senior Pastor.
These three services require tickets, which are free. Requests for tickets can be sent to the Central Moravian Church office, 73 W. Church St., Bethlehem, PA 18018 and should include a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a note concerning number of tickets and times desired. Tickets are distributed after congregation members receive theirs on a first come, first served basis.
Our own Central member Vangie Sweitzer has published a beautiful keepsake book and guide to the Christmas city of Bethlehem. Filled with pictures, Christmas in Bethlehem can help you understand the Moravian heritage and appreciate Bethlehem's Christmas traditions today.
To order your own copy, please call our church office between 8:30 - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday at 610-866-5661 or email us at office@centralmoravianchurch.org.