CHRISTMAS at HOLY ANGELS
2002-2003

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(If parishioners have photographs of additional Christmas activities, please contact us at holyangelsbulletin@hotmail.com)

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

 

 



Midnight Mass

"I Am"

To the strains of our familiar Christmas hymn, a figure symbolizing the Christ child is carried up the darkened aisle of Holy Angels, and lifted up in African cultural manner at the beginning of midnight mass. Despite the record snowfall, parishioners and members of the ministries turned out in sufficient numbers to celebrate the traditional late-night ministry.

A Grateful Farewell!

At midnight mass, Holy Angels expressed our appreciation to interim Choir Director, Mr. Vincent Howard for sharing his gifts of spirit, song, and service with our Gospel Choir and our parish family. Mr. Howard graciously helped us through Fall 2002 and Christmas as we looked for a permanent director. Thanks and God be with you!

After a series of scripture readings and songs, reflecting upon the wait for the Messiah, the lights of our unique Afrocentric nativity scene are illuminated to the strains of "Glory to God in the Highest", the message of the angels on the first Christmas.

As the church lights are turned on, they reveal the transformed Advent wreath and symbolic poinsettias adorning the altar for the sacrifice of the mass.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Gospel brings the good news, the message awaited by mankind since the original sin in the garden of Eden, that Christ the Messiah is born.

 

Father Waldon elevates the consecrated host - Emmanuel, God With Us!

Parishioners who were able to navigate the deep snow now gather around the communion table as Father Waldon elevates the chalice.

Feast of the Holy Family

The bright light of a December morning illuminates the sanctuary of Holy Angels Church at Christmas time. Pictured are the altar, the advent/Christmas wreath, and our beloved nativity scene.

 

Close up daytime views of our altar and nativity.

 

A composite photograph shows the beauty of our parish family, joined together at the 11:00 o'clock liturgy on the Feast of the Holy Family. At this mass, youths of the parish played key roles including readers and ushers.

 

The Epiphany

 


On the final Sunday of Christmas time, 2002-2003, we commemorate the visit of the Magi. The three wise men find and honor the Christ child and He is thereby revealed to the world beyond Bethlehem. We are reminded that Jesus, the Messiah, came to save ALL mankind. This feast is celebrated as much as or more than Christmas itself in some cultures and historically was observed on January 6, completing the twelve days (or nights) of Christmas.