Christmas is a very special time of year for so many. The lights, the songs, the parties, the treats and most of all, the fellowship and gatherings of people. Friends, families, strangers too all come together to celebrate in their own special way. Oh the blogs I could write about all of that.
This time, I’d like to celebrate the Moravian Christmas tradition, what I know about it anyway. I worked at a retirement home with independent senior citizens for about 5 years. It was one of the best times I had as far as jobs were concerned. I loved the road trips we would take and one of those was to a place in the Winston-Salem area where as I understood it, the Moravians settled.
Walking through the village takes you back in time. The folks that host it are donned in period apparel. The village has a few homes, gift shop with items that would have been sold during that time, a church and much more. Things may have changed since I visited there with my folks where I worked but bear with me.
The main event was always the Moravian Love Feast. It was a type of church service but focused on Christmas with songs and hymns. We sat on what I believe could have been some of the original benches. When the service was over we were invited into another room where our gracious hosts and hostesses served us delightful refreshments.
These refreshments were a special sweet bun that was baked to perfection and iced lavishly. Oh this really makes me want one. To go along with the sweet delicious bread was a mug of hot sweet coffee with real cream. I think a lot of folks go just for the goodies. Maybe we did as well to be honest.
I don’t know much more about the Moravian culture and traditions. They were very warm and welcoming in spite of dealing with large numbers of visitors. We did not get to go every year, however, the local church provided a similar experience. It was always worth it and if you get a chance to go, take it. You won’t be disappointed.
Oh it’s time to go now….
