Hanging of the Greens
     Many churches invite their members to help prepare the church for Advent and Christmas.  Some call the event the “Hanging of the Greens.”  Pine or fir branches, holly, pine cones, candles, colorful cloths or ribbons and an Advent wreath are used for decorations.  A tree with Chrismons hanging on it is often placed somewhere in the sanctuary.  Some churches add a new decoration to the sanctuary each week during the season.
     The custom of displaying a Nativity scene in the chancel dates from the early 1600s.  the tradition started in Germany.
     It is thought that the first live Nativity scene – in which live animals and people representing shepherds and wise men gathered at an outdoor manger – began with St. Francis of Assisi around the year 1220.