Mennonite Families in Wissembourg, France, Describe How They Celebrate Christmas

Mennonites in the Wissembourg and Steinseltz area, Protestant Anabaptists who practice baptism in adulthood rather than baptizing young children, are often confused with the Amish. According to the report, they are neither cut off from the wider world nor opposed to technology and modernity. Their dress is simple: they do not wear straw hats or move by horse-drawn carriage.

Several Mennonite families agreed to describe how they celebrate Christmas. For Michael and Christelle, who are 34 and 35, the season is defined by tradition. It begins in early December with the decorating of their home at the Schafbusch.

An Advent wreath, handmade by Christelle, sits on a table. In the living room, a tree decorated with baubles and garlands stands in its place. At its base is a wooden nativity scene made by Michael’s grandfather, Aloïs, which the family treats as a prized piece.

The report says the couple prepares some of the season’s activities with their children, though the account of those preparations is incomplete in the source material.

A family heirloom such as the handmade crèche, carried from one generation to the next, reflects the passing on of the faith (Psalm 78:4).

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)