While the tune “God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen” was accompanied by The Holy Choir of Angles band, nearly 200 visitors tasted delectable snacks, drank hot cider and conversed freely with one another. Such was the atmosphere at the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property (TFP) open house in Spring Grove, Pennsylvania on December 21. All was done in joyful expectation of the coming of Our Lord with two Christmas trees, carols that some people had not heard for years and all kinds of decorations.
Some commented on the spirited singing of the carols: “That’s the way we used to sing it, good and strong.” In the beginning, only the band played but before long, young and old alike had joined in the singing.
There were hourly drawings for such prizes as the Prince of Peace, a statue of the Infant Jesus on a gold pillow, fruitcakes and all sorts of candies. All who attended had an opportunity to tour the grand old house, which has great historic significance for the local residents of Spring Grove.
In the center of everything was a most impressive manger scene assembled by TFP members. The very detailed crèche featured palm trees, snow, and dozens of figurines as all processed to the still-empty manger in anticipation of the coming of the Christ Child.
