Trying to Balance A Relgious & Secular Christmas Season

Dear Blog Visitors:

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration. Although it is a national secular holiday, Thanksgiving has nevertheless taken on religious themes as the history of our country evolved. So, it is no surprise that churches and synagogues are filled each year prior to our holiday feasts.

Although the Christmas season, inclusive of the long period of Advent, is religious at its heart, it has also encompassed much in the way of secular surroundings. For example, what is known as 'Black Friday' has become the annual secular announcement that Christmas has unofficialy arrived, although December 25 is on the distant horizon.

The Christmas season has indeed incorporated both the religious and secular spheres. I tried to highlight this fact with the two photos I have posted above. Despite my light-hearted approach, I will pray that the periods of Advent and Christmas are meaningful for all of you. I also want to wish my Jewish friends and relatives the best of the Hanukkah season.

Peace to all,
Ray

Thanksgiving Greetings to All

Dear Blog Visitors:

It has been a while since my last blog post. So, I thought I would take this opportunity to wish all of you the very best of the Thanksgiving holiday.

I have occasionally mentioned my former elementary and high school classmates who continue to be my friends today. It is always a wonderful occasion to gather with them, and this month provided another such opportunity. So, I thought I would offer a message of thanks to them as part of this blog post.

In addition to giving thanks to my friends and family members, past and present, I also want to thank all the couples who have asked me to be the officiant at their weddings. They have enriched my life in many ways, and it continues to be a privilege and honor for me to be part of their sacred journey into marriage.

I fully realize that Thanksgiving is not always a joyous occasion, especially when there is so much unemployment, poverty, divisiveness and death in our midsts. However, as we gather for our holiday meals, an opportunity is presented for prayer and gratitude for all the good things that have penetrated our lives in the midst of hardships.

As part of this blog post, I thought I would share the two photos above, which will hopefully bring you either a smile or a groan.

My very best to you always,
Ray