A traditional tree-lighting ceremony

Last Friday evening, hundreds of folks gathered among friends and family for one of the most anticipated holiday traditions in Sisters: the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Fir Street Park.

This American holiday tradition continues to bring citizens together to share in a message of hope and peace.

Long before the coming of Christianity, plants and trees that remained green all year had a special meaning for people in winter. Just as people today decorate their homes during the festive season with pine, spruce and fir trees, ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows.

Then in the early 20th century electricity brought about Christmas lights, making it possible for Christmas trees to glow for days on end. And with this, Christmas trees began to appear in town squares across the country to later become an American tradition.

The blaze in the firepit in Fir Street Park kept folks warm as they gathered around sipping hot cocoa and eating popcorn made by volunteers from the Three Sisters Lions Club.

Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Judy Trego kicked things off with encouraging information for the community:

"Sisters is now the fastest-growing city in the state of Oregon! And not only is our city the fastest-growing in the state, we are economically growing as well. We are prospering and our businesses are thriving. We want to thank the community for putting up with us. We couldn't have done it without the community, and the business community is thriving because of you."

Fifteen Skyliner Jazz students from Summit High School in Bend began the festivities singing "Jingle Bells." Summit High School Choral director Melissa Jacot led the enthusiastic choir.

"We are thrilled that Judy Trego asked us to perform tonight," Jacot said. "Skyliner Jazz is a small, auditioned choir and we perform at concerts, festivals, and community events."

Mayor pro tem Nancy Connolly shared her feelings of thankfulness with the audience for all who volunteer in Sisters.

"For all of you that currently volunteer, I want to thank you personally for the time and effort that you donate and give freely to the community to make it such a special place to live and work. For those who don't volunteer yet, I urge you to find your passion, whether it's with the school district, the city, parks and recreation, Habitat for Humanity, or your church. Know that you have the power to be the change to make the community into what you would like it to be."

A popular custom is to bless the Christmas tree before lighting. Sisters resident and interfaith minister Sana Hayes took the honors:

"When the lights are illuminated on this tree tonight, let it remind you of the power in your own life to be a light in the darkness. To help someone find their own way. To give without expecting anything in return."

Skyliner Jazz Choir closed the ceremony singing "Silent Night." Then, the tall live tree at the east side of the park lit up brightly with white lights as the crowd cheered.