In a few weeks’ time, we will celebrate Christmas together with millions of people of different cultures and traditions throughout the world. St Francis of Assisi used to call Christmas “A feast of feasts”. Rightly so, because so many values of solidarity are manifested during this time.
I like to refer to Christmas as the ‘golden age’
In the midst of such a feast, one enjoys the concerts and Christmas hymns, pageants and pantomimes. Families decorate their houses, while decorations adorn village squares and streets.
Decorations are set up in schools, offices, shops, clubs and hospitals. Hospital workers decorate wards and corridors just to see a little smile on patients’ faces during these difficult moments.
One cannot forget those who prepare the cribs, which serve to rekindle our memory of what happened some 2,000 years ago. The climax is reached on Christmas Eve.
Midnight Mass is an old tradition whereby the birth of Jesus is remembered. During this liturgical function, churches are heavily packed and the chanting of bells brings about a joyous atmosphere.
In the belfries of Mellieħa parish church there are five sets of bells – among the most beautiful in Malta. Those who voluntarily spend their free time ringing the bells deserve all the appreciation.
The way churches are decorated in Malta during Christmas is beautiful. In my younger days, I recall visiting churches in Rabat and Cottonera with my family, appreciating their beauty and longing to participate in such decorations.
This thought turned into reality when in 1976 I started working as a sexton within Mellieħa parish church and immediately had the chance of decorating the church for Christmas.
Thirty-five years on and I am still decorating the church every Christmas. I remember the special occasions: when a new Baby Jesus was displayed in 1983, or when a new crib, painted by the late Mellieħa artist George Fenech was displayed in 1986. This crib will be appreciated even more since it will always remind us of this beloved artist.
Decorating the church for the new millennium was another special occasion. I remember seeing the church adorned with fresh flowers. The altar was decorated with poinsiettas, wheat and vetch, with small candles flickering, creating the right atmosphere.The core of these decorations was the statue of the Holy Family, put to the side of the altar with the figures of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
Christmas is a time during which you feel the need to prepare. It is a time to see people happy, others working to delight other people. I like to refer to Christmas time as ‘the golden age’.
I say this because if we work together to show solidarity with people who cannot enjoy this special time like us, we would have performed a wonderful gesture.
During this time I also encourage people to ring the church bells and help with decorating the parish church.