Both Hanukkah and Christmas are happening this week, so it's a time of celebration and faith for many Houstonians. If you're new to Houston, you may be wondering where to go to worship. Fear not! Last year, we posted a list of resources for finding Christmas services of all denominations. It's time for an update, plus ways to find just the right Hanukkah celebrations for you—and even a Jewish and Muslim interfaith celebration. May this week bring more peace and joy to everyone in Houston! Happy holidays!
Houston Hanukkah Celebrations
Hanukkah began at sundown this past Tuesday, December 20, and continues through Wednesday, December 28. Houston Hanukkah celebrations are underway all over town. For the first time ever, the Houston Galleria is including a 12-foot-high steel Menorah in its holiday display, lighting a new “candle” every day of Hanukkah. For other events throughout the Houston metro area, including services, community celebrations, and fun family events, visit Examiner.com's simple, day-by-day list, or Chabad Outreach of Houston's more extensive listing.
Houston Christmas Services
This year, Christmas Day falls on a Sunday, so you can easily attend services for almost any Christian denomination on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both. Find the right church for you by Googling to find your denomination's web site (for example, the United Methodist Church or the Roman Catholic Church), or visit ChurchesIn.com or The Church Finder to find any type of church in Houston.
Muslims and Jews Together for Christmas Eve
While Christians and secular mainstream culture pull out all the stops for Christmas Eve, Houston's Jewish and Muslim communities will come together in the spirit of peace and common understanding. People of both faiths will meet at Masjid at-Taqwa in Sugarland to learn about each other's faiths, meet new friends, and share common ground—along with some great food. For more information, read the Houston Chronicle's post about the event.
Posted by Melanie Belasco Levy on 12/22/11
