Christmas is, by definition, a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, considered to be the savior of mankind. But, Christmastime is rejoiced by non-Christians alike embracing a spirit or feeling that transcends religious beliefs.

Charles Dickens, oft mentioned as inspiring many of the traditions we now regularly practice as part of Christmas celebrations, argues for “keeping Christmas in our hearts” on every day of the year. Personal sacrifice, kindness to others, loving our neighbors as ourselves—this is the “Christmas in our hearts” conviction that Dickens preached.

This is the Christmas we look to this season–one born of faith and a belief in the goodness of others. A holiday inspired by wonder, amazement, and the endless possibilities of what may be. A time when we welcome a new year, counting our blessings and investing in the promise of even better days ahead.
It is a gift–a present that we carefully unwrap, unsure of what lies beneath the bow but excited to find out.

It is a feeling we hope you experience each month when the Troubadour arrives in your home.
Our feature (“A Pageant Like No Other”, pg. 4) tells us that for every child there is a hilltop, no matter how hard it may be to climb. To hear the story of Jaiden’s Angel (“Troubadour Trumpets”, pg. 15), one of love, loss and carrying on, we are reminded that it is not how long a star shines, but the brightness of its light.

Long ago, a great star illuminated the Bethlehem night for miles to see. The sky was filled with angels. Kings, peasants and shepherds each set off on a pilgrimage in pursuit of the bright star.  This month we pay a visit to our own Bethlehem (pg. 8), a town over the years that has welcomed its own fair share of both kings and peasants. It now sits as a retreat in the North Country, with a magnificent history to tell, worthy of its namesake.

So, as you turn the pages you now hold, take a moment to reflect on the season. If you listen closely, you just might hear a choir of angels singing praises and wishing peace on Earth and good will toward men. After all, it is Christmas in Bethlehem.