By staff writer
For the first time, the tour of the old Franciscan Rectory at St. George Catholic Church in Hermann will be held on two weekends.
The hours are from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1-2, and Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 8-9.
The historic friary is decorated by Father William Debo, pastor of St. George Church, and a committee of dedicated volunteers. It’s an annual fund-raiser for the Hermann Ministerial Alliance. Admission is a free-will offering at the end of the tour, and all of the proceeds go to assist the needy in the community.
The rectory is located on West Fourth Street just across the street from St. George Catholic School.
Thousands have passed through the doors of the rectory each season to see religious artifacts integrated into beautiful displays, dozens of themed trees all professionally bedecked, and a genuine spirit of good will and giving all rolled into one special memory of the season.
Tables are set with laces and crystal, and there is a scent of spiced cider and thousands of twinkling lights and candles clustered among dried roses. That’s what you will find when you come home to Hermann for the holidays and experience the tour of St. George Rectory at Christmas time. It has become one of Hermann’s premier events that celebrates what Christmas truly is all about.
Collections of ornaments, antique and handmade or brand new, will be displayed in groups or amongst the mantle garland on the dozens of trees and in tabletop bowls.
You will find wreaths of all shapes and sizes, boxwood and balsam on the walls, on the doors and in garden settings, leaves, nuts, fruits and berries, on benches and windowsills.
Crisp taffeta bows and satin ribbons can be found on the tree branches, along with German paper cuttings and gilded candles, gift wraps and greetings. Votive candles can be found in the hallway, as well as icons and antique statuary. Even the Wizard of Oz makes an appearance, complete with Dorothy’s red ruby slippers.
For more information and details, or to set up a private group tour outside regular hours, contact the parish office by calling 573-486-2723, or email the office secretary at bjacquin@stgeorgeschool-hermann.com.
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