On December 21, our portion of the Earth will experience the Winter Solstice. That night is the longest night of the year and it ushers in the winter season. We will also be celebrating Jesus’ birth. As part of the festivities associated with the Christmas season, many will be adding lights both inside and outside of their homes. At All Saints’ Church in Millington, we are beginning a new tradition using light – and invite other churches to join us.
Our church is located at the intersection of three roads which form five corners. It is well traveled area and thousands of cars pass by every day. On that night our church will leave our interior lights on. We will add some additional lights on the interior as well. We want those who drive by us on that cold, dark night to see our church’s beautiful, stained glass windows. We want to make a colorful appearance to those who pass by. Those who attend church enjoy the windows from the inside on a sunny day. But few see them from the outside. This way others can enjoy them too.
We are hoping that those who pass by that night will take notice of our church. Many drive by every day in the dark. But on that night our church will be illuminated. We hope people will see our lights through the windows and wonder what is happening.
Jesus is coming! Our Emanuel’s birth is near. Jesus has often been called “the light of the world.” What better way to announce his coming then by lighting our churches to celebrate this on a night that is long and dark. We are reminding those that there is light on that cold, dark night. It is found in our churches and other places of worship.
Imagine a person who may be driving by that night. He may be tired after a long, stressful day. As he drives by our church he will see the colorful lights shining through our windows. It may cause him to pause and smile. It could be a reminder that peace and comfort are found within. Perhaps he will plan to join us for Christmas services or return to church in his own community. We may not know this for sure. But if only one person responds and begins attending his house of worship, it would be worth it.
We invite all the churches in our diocese join us. We will light the way home for all to see. Maybe, just maybe, in the future other churches and denominations will join us. Our churches will outshine any gaudy display that is out there!
A new tradition can be started that could light the world. This and all our traditions all began with the birth of a child on a cold, dark night.
Thomas M. Day, Jr. is Warden at All Saints’ Church in Millington.
