The annual Hanging of the Greens ceremony to celebrate the beginning of Advent will be held at First Congregational Church in Wiscasset on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 10 a.m.  

Hanging of the Greens is a tradition rooted in ancient Druid, Celt, Norse, and Roman civilizations that celebrated the winter solstice around Dec. 21. As pagan cultures converted to Christianity, they continued many of the traditional winter solstice activities including the Hanging of the Greens to decorate their homes and churches at Christmas.  

Begun 15 years ago at First Congregational Church, the special Advent service features the presentation of greens brought to the front of the sanctuary by members. Bible passages and responsive readings highlight the meaning of the special greenery in the shapes of a star representing the Star of Bethlehem, a heart symbolizing God’s love, the cross signifying the crucifixion and resurrection, and the circle indicating eternal love.

First Congregational Church of Wiscasset, UCC, is at 28 High St. on the common. All services are open to the public. For more information on Advent and Christmas services: phone 882-7544, fccw@myfairpoint.net, www.uccwiscasset.org