✨ Moravian Putz Tradition, Historic Sword, New School, Encampment Fire

Issue #037- December 15th, 2023

Author

Bethlehem Local Buzz
15 Dec

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

🎄🦌 A Big Festive Weekend of Holiday Events in the Bethlehem Area
⛪️✨  The Moravian Putz: Bethlehem’s Holiday Tradition
🗡 📚 Civil War Relic Returns: Union Captain's Sword Finds Home in Bethlehem School
 📓🖌️ Integrating Arts in STEM: BASD Board Considers New Charter School Proposal
🔥🚑 Early Morning Fire at Bethlehem Encampment Hospitalizes Two
🌧🌊  Upcoming Coastal Storm to Drench Lehigh Valley, Snow Not Expected
🤩 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

East Hills Moravian Church, Central Moravian Church, and Edgeboro Moravian Church in Bethlehem have been beacons of holiday tradition with their Community Putz’s, a unique and cherished display that brings the story of Jesus' birth to life. The Putz, derived from the German word "putzen" meaning "to decorate," is more than just a Nativity scene; it is an intricate and detailed representation of the biblical account of Christ's birth, enhanced by narration and music. As viewers sit in a darkened room, the story unfolds before them, illuminated by tiny lights that highlight each miniature scene.

The practice of building a Putz is a deeply rooted Moravian tradition, dating back to the 18th century when Bethlehem’s first settlers brought their putz figures from their homeland. These figures, many of them antiques of German origin, are carefully placed amidst a natural setting of live moss, driftwood, and rocks, creating a vivid and immersive experience. The tradition of the Putz goes beyond the church walls; in Victorian times, it was customary in Bethlehem for Moravians to "go putzing" during the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s, visiting homes to enjoy the putzes set up by others.

The Christmas Putz is not only a display of artistic beauty but also a testament to the each community's dedication and spirit. Constructing the Putz is a labor-intensive process, often involving many hours of work by church members. The items used in the display, whether handmade or donated, add a personal touch that connects the congregation and the wider community. This tradition, carried on for decades, is a significant part of Bethlehem's cultural and spiritual heritage, embodying the essence of the holiday season and the story of Christ's birth.

  • Fridays 6pm-8pm

  • Saturdays & Sundays: 3pm-8pm

  • Thurs & Fri: 1pm-7pm

  • Saturdays: 10am-8pm

  • Sundays 1-5pm

  • After Christmas: 12/26-12/31 > 1pm-5pm

  • Thurs-Sat: 6pm-8pm

  • Sun: 12pm-3pm

Civil War Relic Returns: Union Captain’s Sword Finds Home in Bethlehem School

The Bethlehem Area School District, in collaboration with local historical organizations, has successfully brought back the sword of Union Captain Jonathan Taylor to Bethlehem. Born in the area and having fought in the Civil War, Taylor's sword is a poignant reminder of the city's historical ties to the conflict. The sword, along with other Civil War artifacts, is now on display at Nitschmann Middle School, offering students and the community an opportunity to connect with their local history.

Integrating Arts in STEM: BASD Board Considers New Charter School Proposal

The BASD Board will hold a hearing on Monday, December 18th at 7pm in East Hills Middle School to discuss the application for the STEAM Academy Charter School, which emphasizes arts in STEM education (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The proposed site of Center St at Dewberry Ave has been subject to various development ideas, and the charter school concept has sparked interest and debate within the community. The hearing will allow for public input and is a key part of the charter school's approval process.

Early Morning Fire at Bethlehem Encampment Hospitalizes Two

An early morning fire at a homeless encampment in Bethlehem, under the Fahy Bridge, led to two men being hospitalized with burns. The fire, which caused significant damage to the encampment, was noticed due to smoke over the Lehigh River and was extinguished by firefighters. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with police examining the site's remains.

A Week of Holiday Events in Bethlehem Area…

Fri Dec 15

Sat Dec 16

Sun Dec 17

  Complete Local Sports Updates & Schedules:

Upcoming Coastal Storm to Drench Lehigh Valley, Snow Not Expected

The Lehigh Valley is preparing for a significant rainfall event as a coastal storm approaches, expected to deliver 1 to 2 inches of rain from late Sunday through Monday. Unlike the previous storm, snow is not anticipated due to warmer air, but concerns about localized flooding persist. The storm's exact path and timing are still uncertain, affecting the severity of the weather impact. Clear skies are forecasted until the weekend, with rain likely starting Saturday night.

“Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas mean’s a little bit more.”

What I Imagine The Grinch GIF

-Dr Seuss: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 🎄

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