The band Joyful thrills 6000 people in the cathedral square.

The day after the atmospheric Christmas carol singing, Fulda's cathedral square was once again transformed into a place of musical enthusiasm with the Gospel Christmas concert, which attracted around 6,000 visitors. The talented vocalists of the band Joyful, under the direction of Theo Sauer, amazed the audience with their powerful voices and created a captivating and uplifting atmosphere.

The event was enriched by the moving contributions of Protestant Dean Dr. Thorsten Waap and City Pastor Buß. Dean Waap spoke about the boundless power of love and how it can act as a unifying force in difficult times. City Pastor Buß encouraged those present to always keep the small spark of hope alive and nurture it in their hearts, especially in challenging moments.

The musical performances ranged from traditional gospel songs to modern interpretations, encouraging the audience to clap and sing along. The evening was all about community and togetherness, a feeling further enhanced by the impressive backdrop of the illuminated cathedral.

The event was made even more special by the generous donations from attendees, which benefited the telephone counseling service. This underscored the community spirit and solidarity that was particularly palpable during the Christmas season. It was an evening filled with music, hope, and togetherness that will be remembered for a long time.

WHY?

The church has several reasons for organizing events like Christmas carol singing. First and foremost, the church fulfills an important social function within the community. Through such events, it creates a space where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to celebrate and prepare for Christmas. This fosters a sense of community and solidarity, which is particularly valuable in today's often individualistic society.

Another reason is the Church's mission to spread the Christian message throughout the world. Through music and communal activities, central themes such as love, peace, and hope can be conveyed in an accessible way. Music has the power to touch people emotionally and create a deeper connection to the spiritual message of Christmas.

Such an event also offers the opportunity to build bridges between the church and the wider community, especially to those who may not be regular churchgoers. Participating in a public event can break down prejudices and present the church as a welcoming, open place where people are welcome regardless of their religious background.

Finally, such an event makes it possible to support charitable causes. By collecting donations for social projects like the telephone counseling service or the children's and youth work of the Kreuzkirche (Church of the Cross), the church can fulfill its diaconal responsibility. It helps to address social injustices and offer practical support to those in need within the community.

These events not only foster community and spiritual life, but also embody practical charity, a central element of the Christian faith. They create a platform for joy, shared experiences, and support, ultimately reflecting the essence of Christmas.

Text : Paul Kowalski

Images : Christian Tech | City

of Fulda