The Library Remembers When...

From the Ipswich Tribune

December 29, 1927 edition

THE MESSAGE OF CHRISTMAS

Christmas was fittingly observed at the various churches in Ipswich.

Programs and trees were enjoyed Friday evening at the Baptist and Congregational churches. The Zion Lutheran church had their program Monday.

Midnight mass was celebrated Saturday night at Holy Cross church. High mass was sung. The service was very impressive and largely attended. The church was beautifully decorated for this solemn but ever joyous occasion.

On Christmas day the pastors of the churches delivered sermons pertaining to the Christmas spirit. Music was also of this nature.

Below is given contribution to the Tribune which relates the meaning of Christmas.

Rev. E. A. Schaller-

And His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace-Isaiah, 9,6.

Had the Shepherds of Bethlehem’s fields not been otherwise informed, they might well have seen only a tiny human being crudely cradled in the straw of the manger. Even the name of the Child which was called Jesus might not have been appreciated by them for its deep meaning, since others before him had been called Jesus, or Joshua which both signify “Savior.” In like manner men of today might celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ with out thinking that they are honoring some one who was and is not a mere man like themselves. The name Jesus Christ has been given different shades of meaning in our modern day and its owner is accordingly regarded with various degrees of respect. Thus, on Christmas eve when the world follows the star to the birthplace of the King, some worship only the Child in the manger, while others think of Him as the God-Child in the manger.

There is a vast difference; for they who name the Christ-Child as Isaiah does, calling Him Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, have found the true Jesus Christ, their Savior and have forgiveness and salvation in His Name and they alone. May our Christmas services be dedicated to the Name than which there is no other given under heaven whereby we must be saved.