TO THE EDITOR:
I have just finished reading the December 8, 2011 issue of the Rhode Island Catholic with its front-page headline, The Spirit of Christmas. The issue was filled with articles and letters concerning the holiday/Christmas tree controversy.
I am confused. I thought we Catholics were first and foremost a liturgical people. I believed the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council when they said, “Nevertheless the liturgy is the summit towards which the activity of the Church is directed; at the same time it is the fountain from which all her power flows.” (SC #10).
This year, Advent, the liturgical season set aside us to prepare for the second coming of Jesus and for his birth in our time, runs from November 27 through December 24. The Christmas season runs from December 25 to January 9, 2012, the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus.
If we light Christmas trees during Advent have we not violated the Season of Advent? By anticipating rather than preparing for Christmas have we not compromised and cheapened our liturgical signs and symbols? If we don't live our liturgy, if we don't respect our signs and symbols, why would we expect others to respect them?
I am reminded of the line from the old Pogo cartoon, "We have met the enemy and it is us!” Until we as Catholics stop lighting Christmas trees during Advent, until we stop having parish and school Christmas parties during Advent, until we stop festooning our rectories and churches with Christmas lights during Advent, we have no right to criticize others. The Catholic Church in the Diocese of Providence would have been better served if Bishop Tobin and Fr. Ruggieri had gathered around an Advent wreath, lit two candles and said the appropriate Advent prayers.
Rev. Joseph Creedon
Pastor, Christ the King, Kingston
