At Vine Street, we have a beautiful tradition to mark the beginning of Advent; it’s our very own version of the Hanging of the Greens.
Early in the season, at the end of the day, women, men, and children of all ages gather in the sanctuary. We sing some of our favorite carols and we listen to stories that tell us how bells and stars, candles and poinsettias became part of our holiday traditions.
As part of the service we also decorate the sanctuary with wreaths and garlands – hence the name, Hanging of the Greens. We prepare our hearts by preparing the space. This is no sit-quietly-in-your-pew service, but a walk-around-and-help-add-beauty service. Toward the end of this special time together, though, we quietly watch the great star as it rises over the baptistery and we say a prayer that our hearts may be prepared to welcome the coming of Christ.
Our Hanging of the Greens is a simple and festive time of worship and preparation for all generations, and we hope you will join us this year.
Sunday, December 1, 4:30pm
Hanging of the Greens
The service is short enough for our youngest friends to enjoy, and after the closing carol, those of us who aren’t too tired go downstairs to the fellowship hall for a little hot cider and a cookie, and all are invited to make a family advent wreath to take home with them.
