For members of the Crusaders of the Divine Church of Christ (CDCC), Christmas does not wait for December. The group’s Abu Dhabi Chapter has set September 25 as the date of its Christmas Lighting Ceremony, an occasion the congregation regards as its genuine Christmas and a moment to mark faith, love, and unity together.
Getting ready has been no small effort. Over the past month and more, chapter members and volunteer workers have devoted themselves to the task, stringing lights and arranging decorations throughout the Chapel, along its exterior, and across the surrounding grounds.
The gathering is meant to carry a message of light, gladness, and togetherness as the community steps into the holiday period. Organizers expect the ceremony to lend the chapter’s yearly celebration added color, warmth, and depth.
Distance from the Philippines has not dimmed the spirit for those observing the day abroad. Members say they still sense the joy of the season while marking it in the United Arab Emirates, a country they have come to treat as a second home.
