Christmas tree

Every year one month before Christmas, Aoyama campus will have a lighting ceremony of the Christmas tree to celebrate the Advent. A cold night today when I was standing at the balcony on 4th floor to 'attend' the mass. Everyone was holding a lighted candle, the main path was brightened up peacefully, with hymn echoing. We were reminded of the meaning of Advent, but I really have no idea of how many Japanese understand the true meaning of Christmas. Most of them might be attracted by the so called romantic atmosphere or whatever reasons, nonetheless I am sure there should be at least someone who knows that it is the birth of Christ we are going to celebrate.

I like Christmas, because it's calm and warm. Of course it is joyful to share the day with the one you love, but I should be contented as I believe that something miraculous is always waiting for me on the Christmas eve. Even there's no turkey, no fancy gift, nor a chritmas tree.

Friends think that the Christmas tree in Aoyama is too lonely, we should have colorful lighting or more decorations. Maybe because of the Protestantism, we just have a bright holy star showing us the direction of Bethlehem.

It's the hymn of tonight.
Silent night, Holy night, All is calm, All is bright
'Round yon virgin Mother and Child, Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, Holy night, Shepherds quake at the sight,
Glories stream from heaven afar, Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia
Christ the Savior is born; Christ the Savior is born.

Silent night, Holy night, Son of God, love's pure light. Radiant beams from Thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth; Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.


Christmas in Aoayama