“the light shown in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome it.”
(John 1: 4-5)
Despite a cold drizzle, joyous parishioners gathered at the conclusion of the Saturday, December 1st 5 pm Mass to take part in the Seventh Annual Lighting of the Advent Trees, that grace the garden of the church along 4th Avenue and down 82nd Street during the Advent and Christmas seasons.
The St. Anselm Adult Choir began the ceremony by singing “People Look East”. Monsignor Maloney then read the blessing and declared: “Let there be light”, at which moment the trees burst into light to the joyous applause of the crowd. The ceremony concluded with the choir singing, “Joy to the World”.
Msgr. Maloney thanked the parishioners for their support by sponsoring the trees – often in honor or in memory of a loved one. Monsignor also thanked the Committee Chairs: Phyllis Arlia and Kim Parker and the volunteers: Florence Diaz, Eileen Loughlin, and Michele Soto for the planning and effort in creating this joyous and prayerful display.
In addition to reminding us that this is a season of prayer and preparation for the coming of Christmas, the lighted Advent Trees grace the exterior of the church and surround the parish’s beautiful outdoor Nativity scene, which awaits the arrival of the Baby Jesus statuette on Christmas Eve.
All the best,
The St. Anselm Publicity Committee