christkindlesmarkt history

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Christkindlesmarkt, meaning "Christ Child Market," is a beloved tradition that has warmed hearts and brought communities together for centuries in southern Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. These markets are not just festive gatherings—they are a celebration of the true meaning of Christmas. Set in charming town squares, Christkindlesmarkts are filled with the comforting scents of spiced drinks, the glow of handcrafted ornaments, and the joyful sound of traditional carols, all pointing to the anticipation of Christ's birth.

The origins of Christkindlesmarkt trace back to the late Middle Ages, with the oldest known market taking place in Dresden in 1434. Among the most treasured is the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, first recorded in 1628. This market, now home to up to 140 craftsmen, comes alive each year in the heart of the city’s Main Market Square. At the heart of the celebration is the Christkind, or Christ Child, who officially opens the market, reminding everyone of the true reason for the season. Children’s laughter echoes through a special Christmas city where they bake, paint, and write letters to the Christkind, experiencing the joy and wonder of Christ’s love.

As a child, I was blessed to attend the Christkindlesmarkt in Augsburg, Germany, year after year. Even now, those magical evenings remain vivid in my memory. I can still smell the sweet gingerbread and bratwursts grilling over an open flame, see the thousands of twinkling lights reflecting off delicate glass ornaments, and hear the choir’s voices carrying the message of Christ’s love through the crisp night air. The warmth of hot chocolate in my hands, the taste of apple strudel drizzled with vanilla sauce—these are not just memories, but reminders of the true spirit of Christmas.

My deepest hope is to bring a piece of this Christ-centered tradition to Fellsmere. I want to share the magic and meaning of Christkindlesmarkt with our community, creating a celebration that not only delights the senses but also centers our hearts on the birth of Christ. Let this be a place where families can gather, where the love of Christ is felt, and where the true spirit of Christmas can be experienced for years to come.

Pastor Michael T. Combs