tradition

As many of our neighbors are aware, we have a little tradition that we do this time of year. We take the letter below to all of our neighbors with a small tea-light candle. It's something we would like to share with all of you:

Dear Friends,
Over a century ago, in the city of Lyon, France, there was a plague threatening the town's people. Many were dying and the situation was desperate. The word went out among Christian people to pray and fast to ask for deliverance from this terrible illness. Somehow a miracle occurred in that city and the plague disappeared. On December 8th of that year, as a way of showing their gratitude, the citizens decided to place candles in their windows. Very quickly that night, the city became a “City of Light”; a name the city bears to this day. People from all over the world come to see this magical display of light throughout the city. The tradition of lining their windows with candles in brightly colored glass candle holders continues even still. It brings warmth and unity to the beautiful city of Lyon. Perhaps, even more importantly, it is a reminder that prayers are answered and that light in the midst of darkness is possible.

This tradition from Lyon, France is something we wish to share with you. Traditions are the special moments that bind us together as families and friends. Somehow, they carry something magical and bring light to our lives.

Please accept our warmest and kindest wishes for this holiday season. We wish you a merry Christmas and a wonderful new year to come.

Perhaps you will feel inclined to join us on that evening of December 8th in lighting your window with candles and enjoy the beauty of our own Neighborhood of Light. Even more importantly, perhaps this might become a symbol of unity and gratitude for our
Savior, the Light of the World.
With Love,

the Lepore family

p.s. the picture above is from last year. All of the windows in our living room, kitchen and family room look like that on December 8th! The kids love it and it's so magical.