On the frosty eve of Bethlehem, hazy nimbus of lamplight on cobblestones leads to the open doors of St. Mary’s.
Within, eternal flame of brooding majesty burns above the ornate cupola.
Towering pillars, angled arches, patterned concentric circles lofting above the altar — silent hints of the complexity of church history.
Lambent stained windows and shadowed mosaic encircle the faithful with biblical messages.
Ruby poinsettias amid pine-scented greenery flank altars ablaze with candles shedding their muted pools of empathy and bright sparks of hope this Christmastide.
A tree-wrapped manger filled with new straw portends the good works of a parish to welcome the Christ Child!
Lusty chorus of ancient carols lifts the night in musical elegance, bells ringing down and flickering candles raised up in reverent procession.
Radiant warmth of liturgy and celebration mingle to greet the Christmas visitors on this holy night.