Create spaces where God can be welcomed

February is a month traditionally linked with romantic love, love of neighbor, love of self. The Church celebrates Candlemas Day on February 2, a day associated with light and, in some traditions, the actual end of the Christmas season. If we think of Christmas lingering until the start of February it gives more opportunities to celebrate and reflect on Jesus, the Light of the World and the one who comes wrapped in love.

If we think of Christmas lingering until the start of February it gives more opportunities to celebrate and reflect on Jesus, the Light of the World and the one who comes wrapped in love.

Personally, I’m in favor of keeping the Christmas decorations up and, on the cold winter nights, sitting in the glow of twinkling lights with family and friends, wrapped in a warm blanket with a cup of hot chocolate. I think it’s part of my heritage. The Danish and Norwegian people (who are considered the happiest people on earth) have the custom of hygge, which continues many of our favorite elements of celebrating Christmas through the dark cold months of the year. It’s all about lighting candles to ward off darkness, being present to yourself and those around you, celebrating simple pleasures like a warm cookie with a glass of milk, sharing meals and love, being grateful and expressing gratitude, creating harmony with family and companions, finding comfort in all things warm and cozy, and having an open mind and heart to accept others so gatherings are free of conflict and drama.   

Creating hygge for ourselves and those we love creates spaces where God can be welcomed and love can flourish. 

May you be assured of our deep gratitude for your support of our ministry. We wish you many good friends and companions who will celebrate you not just on Valentine’s Day, but year round. May you ever be aware of God’s deep and abiding love for you.