Shenandoah herald. [volume] (Woodstock, Va.) 1865-1974, 1873-01-09
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL AT sTRAsgURG.
MEssRs,. Ep1rJoks =

Christmas morning
came, cold, intensely cold and otherwise
inclement; and in consequence numbers
were kept away who desired to be present.
the pastor delivered discourse uDon the.
"Incarnation of the Word" All the SER
vices were conducted i'll accordance with
the order appointed by the church for the
day. Notice was given of a meeting at 6
P. NJ. in the interests of the Sabbath
School. when distribution of gifts would
beQnade, and other religious exercises
take place. The afternoon was spent by
the teachers and older'scholars in prepar-
ing the tree for the night display. Scores
of wax tapers were attached to it,
whilst two hundred donations from teach
ers to scholars, scholars to teachers, par
ents to children and friends to friends
hung from its pendant boughs, or lay
costly at its root. At the time appointed
the house was densely crowded with a
large preponderance Of youth. and chill
dren, all on tiptoe anxiety to have a clear
er view of the Christmas Tree, as it stood
majestically in the din light, goodly tree
Of many bearing fruits. Presently the
work of lighting the tapers commenced
disclosing at each lighting some valuable
useful or elegant gift, with here and there
one that would provoke a smile, but all
were offerings of the heart. When the
last taper kissed its kindred flame the tree
was all ablaze; and sparkling Jewels, rich
colored clothes and fancy articles OF all
descriptioapicturesquely mingled with the
deep green foliage,and jets of fire. All gaze d
intently and admiringly upon the lovely
object for few moments, when music
with its meloaious swell broke the spell
that bound us. Prof. E Painter presiding
at the organ assisted by competent choir
favored the audience with few well Sc
lected pieces Of music, after which the
distribution Of gifts took ;'lace, preparato-
ry to which pages were appointed to de-
liver them to the fortunate doners. Then
commenced the gracious work of spelling
a beautiful picture that but few moments
before had elected the praise of all.
the donee was announced, and handed to
a page for delivery. 1t took some time to
detach two hundred gifts, and present
them. must not in this connection for
gotten. His congregation presented him
cloth and trimming of a fine quality for an
overcoat, and last year about this time an
elegant dress coat. So mote it be.
The presentation having been completed
we were again favored with some choice
music, after which the pastor made short
address, returning thanks to his people for
their kind remembrance and also s..me
appropriate remarks directed more par
ticuiarly to the children. in regard to the
day, the propriety of its religious observ-
ances ; and the facts and truths associated
with it, and which should never be forgot
ten. The interesting services of the day
closed with prayer. doxology and benedic-
ton. All the services were conducted
with that sobriety and deeorunl. which be-
came the holy habitation of God, and we
feel assured that children and parents re-
turned to their happy homes on Christmas
night thankful for all their eyes had seen
and hearts had felt. That all will not meet
again under similar circumstances is NOR
ally certain.
"When shall we meet again?
Meet Ae'er to sever?
When will nalce Vreathe her. rii ain
Round US forever?
Up to that world Of light,
Take us dear Saviour;
May we all there unite,
Happy forever.
Amicas.