By Trish Bennett
“Haul out the holly;
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again.
Fill up the stocking,
We may be rushing things, but deck the halls again now.
For we need a little Christmas
Right this very minute,
Candles in the window,
Carols at the spinet.
It hasn’t snowed a single flurry,
But Santa, dear, we’re in a hurry.”
When Jerry Herman wrote those lyrics for the Broadway musical “Mame” in 1966, he did not envision Redeemer’s Christmas Bazaar, nor could he imagine the year-round hustle-bustle that makes this magical tradition happen each year.
Yet his words perfectly capture the Bazaar spirit afoot “right this very minute.”
Dedicated “elves” are collecting treasures for bidding and buying; holly and other seasonal baubles for decorating. And through it all willing hands (and strong backs) are making the work light and—never to be discounted—fun.
Like extravagantly wrapped but mysterious boxes, Redeemer’s Christmas Bazaar activities always hold surprises.
The Preview Party (Nov. 16; 6:30 – 9:30 at the Merion Cricket Club) will feature both a live and silent auction, a seated dinner, music and dancing. Among the items offered for bids (some still under wraps, like any good surprise) will be getaway stays at luxurious vacation homes; tickets to the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion; and property care services.
Those seeking new ways to deck their halls will find a host of beautiful topiaries and Christmas decorations, holiday party goods, stationery and serving trays featured at this year’s Philadelphia Gift Show.
The Saturday Bazaar (Nov. 17; 9 -3) will provide holiday cheer in many shapes and sizes. Bookworms can carry away best-sellers, museum-quality art books, and page-turners of all descriptions. The Redeemer’s own “Antiques Roadshow” will be on display in the Attic Treasures booth. Kid-friendly activities will be on-going all day, along with a silent auction. Lunch (and chairs) will be plentiful for respite-seekers.
As always, all profit monies go toward The Redeemer’s outreach programs, benefitting community and area needs.
Helping hands are always needed and welcomed. Call the Church Office (610-525-2486) or email (tish@theredeemer.org).
