Celebrating Zion's Votive Candle: Our Tree of Light!  

Candle Tree of Life Several Candles

Since Christmas Eve 2006, our church has been illuminated by the shine of small votive lights on a special stand: our new votive “Tree of light”.

This is how the purveyors, Marklin Candle Co. of New Hampshire describe it:
The Votive Tree is a sculptural alternative to the common votive stand.
Calling to mind the burning bush that so amazed Moses, it summons us into the presence of the creator of light. The 42 branches will hold 4 or 10hr votive lights. The sturdy 21" diameter base gracefully holds the hand bent arms to make a stunning presentation of light. Hand-crafted by skilled New Hampshire craftsmen.”
(http://www.marklincandle.com/votivetree.html)

This message was placed in the Christmas bulletin by Major Ralph Vordemberge, serving on active duty overseas: Some candles on this Votive Tree are in honor and memory of all service women and service men who have made and are making many sacrifices in trying to protect our freedom and, in honor of their families who also make many sacrifices during these trying times. And as each candle burns on this Votive Tree may it remind us of the CREATOR of LIGHT and let us back home continue to pray for a safe return of all service women and service men.

 

Hier in der Stille

zünde ich eine Kerze an

und komme einen Moment zur Ruhe.

Hier in der Stille

rückt das Licht der Kerze

mein Leben

in ein anderes Licht.

Hier in der Stille

spricht ER: „Ich bin das Licht der Welt“

und „Ihr seid das Licht der Welt“.

Hier in der Stille

zünde ich eine Kerze an für Menschen,

die ein Licht brauchen.

Hier in der Stille

brennt meine Kerze weiter,

wenn ich gehe.

(Gebet aus Deutschland)

Here in the silence

I light a candle

And find rest for a moment.

Here in the silence

The light of the candle moves

My life

Into a different light.

Here in the silence

HE speaks: “I am the light of the world“

And “You are the light of the world“.

Here in the silence

I light a candle for people

Who are in need of light.

Here in the silence

My candle keeps burning,

When I go.

(a prayer from Germany)

We discussed the wish of some to leave a donation for each of their lights.
We have decided NOT to put a box or a basket right next to the lights.
Nobody should feel pressured to make a donation for lighting a votive candle.

If you want to give something (and we appreciate each and every gift), please use the „Poor Box“ at the back of the church or one of the envelopes provided in the pews. DANKESCHÖN! THANK YOU!                                              

Pastor Holger Roggelinn

TO ZION SANCTUARY