On the third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, numerous children, families and believers gathered in the Hüttenberg parish church to celebrate a festive and at the same time touching children’s and family service.
As soon as we entered the church, it was clear that this Sunday lived up to its name: “Gaudete – Rejoice!” A quiet but sustaining joy was in the air – a joy that lives from hope.
Celebrant Dean Cons. Council Lawrence Pinto introduced the worship community to the special message of this Advent Sunday with a sensitive and life-like introduction.
He made it clear that Christian joy is much more than a fleeting feeling or external happiness. It is the deep certainty that God is near – in the middle of waiting, in the middle of everyday life, in the middle of life.
The participation of the children gave the service a special liveliness and warmth. Both the kindergarten children and the elementary school children contributed with songs and texts, making the message of Gaudete Sunday tangible for all generations.
Their voices, their presence and their joy made it clear that faith grows where children are taken seriously and included.
A warm blessing from God goes to the kindergarten under the direction of Ms. Ingrid Kitz, the children of the elementary school under the direction of Ms. Marina Krause as well as Religion teacher Birgit Kroll for the committed, loving and careful preparation.
The combination of words, music and child-friendly symbolism made it clear how lively the church can be when many hands and hearts work together. The delicate pink accent of Gaudete Sunday, the voices of the children and the attentive celebration of the families made this service a strong sign of lived community.
After the celebration everyone was cordially invited to the Agape. This also showed how valuable encounters and togetherness are. A big thank you goes to the parents’ association, who warmly provided the hospitality and ended the festive morning in an atmosphere of community.
The children’s and family service on Gaudete Sunday in Hüttenberg was more than a liturgical celebration. He was a visible witness that joy grows when it is shared and that the church is particularly credible where children have their place and families feel welcome.
May God warmly reward all those who took part, helpers – and everyone who made this Sunday a real celebration of joy in Advent through their existence and participation.
Well done Sabine
