CHRISTMAS 2002 AT ST. MARY'S

The Christmas decorating theme this year is in keeping with the time period 100 years ago.  In 1902, only 1 in 5 homes had a Christmas tree.  In 1882, Edward Johnson working under Thomas Edison formulated the first Christmas tree lights of 80 bulbs.  By 1900 big stores were using illuminated trees to attract customers.  Small country towns such as Washingtonville did not have electricity established as yet ansd so the Christmas tree would have been decorated with candles.  The patent for tree stands was issued in 1876.  Glass blown ornaments were common in America int eh 1870's.  Tinsel made in Germany was popular inthe late 1870's and metallic rope garland in 1890. All other decorations would have been natural greens, fruits, nuts, pine cones.  Legend says that the Holly was Christ's "Crown of Thorns" with the berries turning from white to red after the crucifixion.  To Mexicans in teh 18th century, the poinsettia was the "Flower of the Blessed night" replicating the star of Bethlehem. And interesting to note that the government declared Christmas a Federal Holiday in 1885 and that in 1902 the stuffed bear was given the name Teddy in honor or President Theodore Roosevelt.

     
The Prestons (Kelly, Lynne, Gary) and Barbara Kahn decorate the steps up to the church.


 
Tom Burke works on the entry way!     


Later he and Barney Kahn turned the shrine into Bethlehem.


Rachel Kurtz, Kelly Preston, and Maureen Burke
work together to put up the tree.


 
Our beautiful Creche....ready for the arrival of the baby Jesus!  

The Sanctuary...ready for Christmas!

 
Pew markers circa 1902.                                      

Christmas candle, adorned with greenery!