You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds
are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
Happy parishioners gathered at the conclusion of the 5 PM Mass on Saturday, December 7th to participate in Eighth Annual Lighting of the Saint Anselm Advent Trees, which grace the garden of the church along 4th Avenue and down 82nd Street during the Advent and Christmas seasons.
The lighting ceremony began with the Saint Anselm Adult choir singing “People Look East”. Then, Monsignor Maloney 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 happy occasion 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. And, of course, a special “Thank You” to the Committee Chairs: Phyllis Arlia and Kim Parker, and the wonderful committee members for making this event possible each year.
Surrounding the church’s outdoor Nativity, the lighted Advent Trees remind us, and all passers-by, that Advent is a time of prayer and preparation to welcome the coming of Christ, symbolized by the placing of the Baby Jesus statuette in the Nativity scene on Christmas Eve.
All the best,
The Saint Anselm Publicity Committee