Follow the star: Hanging of the greens transforms sanctuary for the season of Advent
Many of the decorations have been in the church for years and only make an appearance for the Christmas season. Subtle changes are made each year to commemorate the holiday. "We have tried various colors over the years," said Jo Shilling. "The younger generation seems to really like the red." The altar in the church's sanctuary is a source of pride for the volunteers. Adorned with 25 yards of red and gold fabric, a multi-tiered spiral crystal candle and the Nativity depicting the Holy Family, the altar, ensconced by two 7-foot trees and two 12-foot trees, emits warmth and light.
The Advent wreath, four candles on a wreath of evergreen, is a perfect circle to symbolize the eternity of God and sits atop a handcrafted stand made by longtime church member Jack Miller, who passed away last October.
The lighting of the first candle symbolizes expectation; the second symbolizes hope, the third joy and the fourth purity. The Christ candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, reminding Christians that Jesus is the light of the world.
A traditional Hanging of the Greens service took place Nov. 24. Volunteers had taken time before to fluff and refresh the wreaths and garland that grace the sanctuary and halls. In a time when people are crying out for liturgy as symbols deeply lived, it was a multisensory communal event.
It takes 200 yards of fabric to create the flowing garlands that are all hand-sewn by Holly Tulip of Dover. "We are so blessed to have her help," said Shilling. "So many volunteers help with this. Families come together. This year, our youth decorated the fellowship hall along with the assistance of youth director Kyle Dummermuth.
Chrismons, traditional wooden ornaments, decorate trees in the church lobby. Each Chrismon represents Jesus Christ, his life, ministry, nature and teaching. Orville residents Glen Tschantz and Bob Tibbits handmade 120 new Chrismons for the church on behalf of the Kowaleski family who primed, sanded, painted and added gold leaf and thread for hanging.
"On Christmas eve, poinsettias will fill the space near the altar," said Nedra Trautman, altar committee volunteer. "With all the work we have already done, it seems there is always something left to do to prepare for the service."
It is a labor of love for Shilling and her dedicated volunteers. "I love the church. I love the people. Being here is such good medicine," said Shilling. "We wanted to do something special this year and give everyone that attends our Christmas Eve service a gift." Students at Buckeye Career Center have made 500 wooden crosses. Each cross, presented in a hand-sewn velour bag made by church member Esther Clark, are available to all who come to worship. "Those who come to the service can keep this gift," said Shilling. "It is something they can hold in their hand for comfort."
Visitors are always welcome to see the festive Christmas décor at First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 1725 N. Wooster Ave., Dover.