On Sunday, Dec. 18, nearly 400 Arizona residents attended the second German Christmas service at Mountain View Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee. Most of them were first-generation Germans, but there were also many residents who spoke only English.
The entire service was conducted in German, but hymns were chosen that could be sung in both German and English. In a short play about four candles of peace, faith, love, and hope, all were extinguished, but "hope" was able to light them all again. The message of the play was to be a glowing light like Jesus in the dark world.
Pastor Ken Lentz delivered the sermon and everyone was invited for fellowship after the service to enjoy some refreshments and home-baked German Christmas cookies. The offering was donated to Lutheran World Hunger Relief.
Those who are interested in helping out next year by baking cookies, participating in a short play, playing in the orchestra, or helping with other organizational activities may contact Heike Davis at heikedavis@cox.net or Ingeborg Mack at (480) 961-4649. Knowledge of German is not required.
