Christmas Around the World
Urgent! Urgent! Concordia Academy students left the country today! They visited four countries: Mexico, England, Germany, and France. During their visit, they learned about Christmas traditions. England had several of the same Christmas traditions as America. Stockings hung by the fireplace started in England. Children washed out their stockings, hung them by the fire, and when they woke, coins were left in them. A custom in Germany was the Advent wreath and calendars. Each Sunday children lit one candle until Christmas Eve. With the calendar, children opened one window each day, displaying a Christmas symbol.  In Mexico, Santa was not a prominent figure, but the bright, big, red poinsettia was a prominent symbol. It was believed that a young shepherd brought branches as a gift to the Baby Jesus. The branches sprouted red flowers when placed at the manger. The red flower was the poinsettia. In France, the crèche or the Nativity scene was the main focus in each home. Nativity scenes made of clay were passed from generation to generation. The custom has been in place since the seventeenth century. Each student brought a small souvenir home from each country. Along with their souvenirs, students also have special passport stamps to commemorate their visit. We hope they enjoyed their trip - ask them to share their experiences with you!  
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! See you back in 2012! | 
Lessons & Carols Service - THIS Sunday, Dec. 18th at 10:45 am - a wonderful service full of your favorite Christmas hymns and carols, featuring the choirs, bells and worship team of St. Peter's Music Ministry