Marty Elwell

Marty Elwell

  • Joined: September 25, 2019
  • Articles: 490

Christmas Carols and Caroling

           Sharing the good news about Jesus’ birth through song began on the day he was born. As angels announced the news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, they were singing praises to God on high. The shepherds then hurried to…

The Candy Cane

Legends surrounding the origin of the candy cane are many and the question as to whether or not they are true does not lessen its role as a teaching tool to use at Christmas.             Hard candy has been around…

Christmas Bread and Cookies

            Baking as a holiday tradition has been around a long time.  Many people in different cultures make special breads, cookies, or candies that are only associated with the celebration of Christmas.  Family recipes are often handed down as part…

Christmas Bells

Bells originated in Asia and have been used all over the world to signal important events. For over 500 years, bells have been used to call Christians to worship. At Christmas, ringing bells are a reminder of the importance of…

Angels

Angels are faithful messengers of God.  A host of angels were the ones who announced Christ’s birth to the shepherds out in the field.  The angel Gabriel visited Mary to tell her that she had been favored by God and…

People Matter More Than Things

As I handed her multiple pieces of an opaque green she started protesting, “Marty don’t you want to keep some of this for yourself.” I assured her that I was happy to give it to her and finally said what Richard always told me, “People matter more than things.” She looked at me with surprise and said, “That’s beautiful.”