One of the biggest blessings in being a writer and historian is the wonderful relationships that are shared with editors, publishers, and readers alike. Additionally, one may also have affiliations with special historical and preservationist groups. Sometimes these organizations graciously bestow recognitions upon you, and it is for these accolades that I am most thankful. At the risk of sounding prideful, I have received opportunities and honors from groups including the United States Navy, Lockheed Martin, Faith Writers, ESPN Classics, United States Marine Corp., Sons of Confederate Veterans, and the United Daughters of the Confederacy. I am grateful for each and every one, but it is a VERY special honor that I was informed of last night, that now tops my list. (To some it may seem relatively small and insignificant, but to my Protestant family, it is among the most important honor that one could receive.)

Last night the Aubrecht’s humbly accepted an invitation to be the family that lights the final Advent Candles at the Christmas Eve (Children’s Service) at Spotsylvania Presbyterian Church. This includes the igniting of special candles at the pulpit, as well as a scripture reading and prayer lead. Nothing could make me more proud than standing with my wife and four children, in front of our congregation, directly participating in the worship of the birth of our Lord and Savior. In a church with several hundred active-members, this is quite an honor and I thank the good folks at SPC for the opportunity. As this is a family-shared-event, it will certainly be an honor that I will cherish above all others. Especially when my children will be participating too.

For those who may be unfamiliar with this process: The advent wreath is a ring or set of four candles, usually made with evergreen cuttings and used for household devotion by some Christians during the season of Advent. Many churches illuminate these candles in succession through the four weeks leading up to Christmas as part of their Sunday services for Advent. The wreath is meant to represent God's eternity. The violet candles symbolize faithful expectation and the rose candle joy and hope. In earlier times the season of Advent had stronger penitential and ascetic aspects and a relaxation of disciplines was offered on the third Sunday of Advent also called ‘Gaudete Sunday’ from the Latin for "rejoice" the first words of the Introit. This turn is reflected in the theme of rejoicing and the shift from violet to rose. The first candle is often called the ‘prophet's candle’ and is meant to signify the hope of Jesus' arrival. The second is generally called the ‘Bethlehem candle’ reminding Christians that God appeared to them in a humble manner; Bethlehem was located in the territory of one of the least powerful tribes of Israel. The third candle is the ‘shepherds' candle’ representing the joy that more than half of Advent is over. The final candle is the ‘angels' candle’ symbolizing their peace and the message of good news that they offer.

I get a new baby boy and all this in the same Christmas season? I am most certainly blessed!