Christmas in Bethlehem

My theme for this week of Advent is "Striving to find unity and peace with all the people of the world".

One way I love to do that is by learning about the traditions and beliefs of people throughout the world. In years past I've studied Ireland, Germany and Switzerland, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, and Mexico.

This year I've decided to look at Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus.

Agenda:

1- Read "Present Moment Awareness"

2- Research Bethlehem

3- A Prayer for Peace and Forgiveness

5- Make soft Irish ginger cookies
6- Make a piñata for Las Posadas

First Day of Christmas

Today is Christmas, but only the first day of Christmas (what Norwegians call 1. juledag). This is the start of the twelve-day festal tide adopted by the Christian Church: In 567 C.E. church leaders proclaimed the days from December 25 to Epiphany as a sacred, festive season.

Now my preparations are finished, and I can relax with my family, do a puzzle, eat, drink, and generally wallow in joyful abandon.

In some old traditions, this whole season is seen as a sort of Sabbath: Prepare ahead of time and then spend the Twelve Days doing as little work as possible. It's a good time to rest, reflect, and find peace within.

Agenda:

1. Christmas Retreat Brainstorm for Renewal

2. Love reading

3. Love plans

4. Open Gifts

5. Put Baby Jesus in the manger

6. Christmas dinner and pudding