On the first Sunday of Advent our congregation holds a special service, “The Hanging of the Greens”. Church members read short stories which tell how certain ornaments such as angels, stars, and bells came to be used as ornaments. Members carry ornaments to the tree at the front of the church and decorate it. In between we sing carols and pray.
I had volunteered to tell a beautiful legend about Christmas Roses. Nonetheless, I was wishing that I’d stayed at home.
In past years the service has included a legend of how Christians came to decorate evergreens. In this legend Saint Wilfrid cuts down an oak tree, sacred to the Druids, and finds a fir tree growing inside. He announces to the assembly “This shall be your symbol from now on.”
I hate the destructiveness and triumphant attitude of this legend. It reminds me how we oppressed First Nations people by obliterating their spiritual symbols and outlawing their ceremonies. I’d been hoping that no one would choose to tell this legend but there it was on the order of worship.
Last year I spoke with our minister and asked him to address this matter after the fact. He did so. However, he’d later gone to another church and we hadn’t found another minister. Moreover, I had the chance to pick this story for my part and I’d avoided it. I had only myself to blame.
When it came to the legend of the Christmas tree Dona, secretary of our pastoral charge, stepped to the front. She’d shown an interest in right relations with First Nations but I didn’t know what she’d say this morning.
The sense of justice can burst forth in the unlikeliest place. An act of healing can come forth at the most unexpected time. I just need to be open to see and hear them.
Peace and blessings of the season to you.
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