BETHLEHEM, Pa. (AP) — Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Bethlehem is deeply enriched by the traditions of the Moravian Church—one of the oldest Protestant denominations with roots tracing back to the regions of Bohemia and Moravia in the present-day Czech Republic.
Established on Christmas Eve in 1741, this historic city serves as a vibrant testament to the Moravian faith and practices.
Beloved Christmas Traditions
The settlers named their new home Bethlehem, honoring the birthplace of Jesus.
Nearly 300 years later, the Moravian community in this charming town remains committed to preserving and celebrating its beloved Christmas traditions.
Among these cherished customs is the “putz,” an elaborate Nativity scene crafted from intricate wooden figures that tell the story of Christ’s birth.
Equally significant are the thousands of beeswax candles produced each year, which symbolize the divine light entering the world.
The community also comes together for a “lovefeast,” a warm gathering where members enjoy sweet buns and coffee, sharing hymns in a spirit of togetherness.
The senior pastor of Central Moravian Church, the oldest Moravian congregation in North America, noted that these traditions play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community.
For her, Moravian practices emphasize unity and companionship rather than strict doctrines.
Historical Reflections
The connection Moravians feel with the Nativity story is profound.
Their own ancestors sought refuge from religious persecution, mirroring the challenges faced by the Holy Family.
This historical lens makes the Nativity narrative all the more poignant today, especially in light of the ongoing struggles faced by displaced individuals worldwide.
A church member expressed the community’s mission: to promote compassion and support for those seeking safety.
The Moravian Church’s roots reach back to John Hus, a notable religious reformer who boldly critiqued the Roman Catholic Church and paid the ultimate price for his beliefs in the early 15th century.
His followers later founded the Moravian Church, or Unitas Fratrum, in 1457—long before the more widely recognized Protestant Reformation stirred by Martin Luther.
Facing persistent persecution, the Moravians eventually found solace in Herrnhut, Germany, where they established the Renewed Moravian Church.
From this refuge, missionaries made their way to Pennsylvania.
In a pivotal moment on Christmas Eve of 1741, Count Nikolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf encouraged the settlers to sing a hymn, inspiring him to name their settlement Bethlehem—a name reflecting humility compared to the grandeur of Jerusalem.
Community Spirit
When they arrived in Bethlehem, the settlers brought along handcrafted figures that would become part of their Nativity scenes.
The “putz,” derived from the German word meaning “to decorate,” transcends mere decoration.
It captures various elements of the Gospel, from the Annunciation to the visit of the Magi, in its miniature representations.
During the Victorian era, families enjoyed a custom known as “putzing,” where they toured each other’s homes to admire the different Nativity displays from Christmas Eve through New Year’s. In 1937, this tradition gained wider recognition when the local chamber of commerce promoted Bethlehem as “Christmas City USA,” showcasing the putz at the historic Hotel Bethlehem.
Today, this beloved custom thrives within the community, with congregants at Central Moravian Church assembling the display annually for viewing at a nearby educational building.
For many long-time residents, the experience of seeing the putz is intertwined with cherished memories and a profound connection to both their faith and the city.
As visitors meander through the display, they marvel at the meticulously arranged wooden figures of angels, shepherds, and kings, set against natural backdrops.
Engaging storytelling complements the visual experience, creating an opportunity for families to connect deeply with the Christmas narrative.
The holiday spirit envelops Bethlehem, where festive activities abound—from horse-drawn sleigh rides with Santa to bustling Christmas markets filled with handmade ornaments.
Central Moravian Church resonates with the songs of its choir performing traditional hymns, while congregants partake in the “lovefeast,” enjoying freshly made buns and coffee.
After receiving a blessing from the pastor, volunteers prepare thousands of beeswax candles adorned with red ribbons, ready to be lit during the Christmas services—each a cherished symbol of the season.
For many church members, seeing these candles ignites powerful memories of family gatherings and strengthens their ties to the enduring legacy of their faith.
The warmth of Bethlehem’s holiday celebrations continues to attract visitors while nurturing a vibrant sense of community and spirituality.
Source: Religionnews
