Illumination (decoration)
An illumination is an
Epiphanytide season, which is historically Candlemas. Illuminations are popular in Moravian settlements such as Old Salem, Bethlehem and Lititz, though this custom has spread among the membership of other Christian denominations.[1] In the Moravian town of Herrnhaag, due to the abundance of illuminations there "it appeared from Budingen as though the whole hilltop were a single sea of flames."[1] Brought by Moravian missionaries from Saxony to Bethlehem, illuminations were first used in North America as early as 1741.[2] Though illuminations are traditionally lighted candles, in the modern day, these can be electric candles.[3]
See also
- Christingle
- Lovefeast
- Moravian star
- Nativity scene
References
- ^ a b c d "The Putz and Illumination". Moravian Church. 19 November 2018. Retrieved 3 December 2023.
- ^ a b c Mayberry, Mary Lou (2022). "Window Candles". Bethlehem Historic District Association. Retrieved 3 December 2023.
- ^ Hillinger, Charles (25 December 1985). "The Star of Bethlehem Is Moravian Church Tradition". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 3 December 2023.