“Most everybody knows what Christmas caroling is, but who does it anymore?” - USA Today article, 12/16/2007According to the USA Today article, traditional caroling is only practiced by a shrinking fraction of the population.
Luckily for us, our church community hasn’t given up on caroling! Sunday night the Los Gatos Ward had at least two groups out spreading Christmas cheer with caroling and treat deliveries.
We had a handsome group pitch up on our front doorstep (Jeremy W. & Maria, Jeremy V. without Mallory, Adam & Breanna, Matt & Danielle, and Doug & Kathy). They sang a few songs, left a plate of goodies and off they went.
Then Andie & Paige joined up with another caroling group that included the ward youth. Maybe it’s just a sign that I’m getting old but I definitely treasure little things more than I used to. Carolers at the door is one of those things.
So, I certainly hope caroling isn’t a tradition that vanishes. It was a treat to have carolers drop by; things instantly felt more festive on the home front. And, even with my terrible voice, I find participating in caroling fun too. The caroling probably sounds better if I lip-synch, but either way, it’s the best way I know of to get caught up in the Christmas spirit.
“It’s not too late to revive Christmas caroling but it will take imagination and a willingness to break the ice. Singing is an act that naturally enhances a sense of community, whether it’s Take Me Out to the Ballgame, the national anthem or Christmas carols.” - Michael Hawn, Southern Methodist University professor of church music
