There is a lot of trouble in the world and these are the dark days before Christmas. As a counterbalance, pastor Joanne Greving in Westerbork devised the project ‘Traces of light – Windows of hope’.
Hello Mrs Greving, what does this project entail?
„ Traces of light – Windows of hope is a joint initiative of both churches in Westerbork and means that seven illuminated and decorated windows are unveiled every week during the Advent period. They form short walking routes, so that you can, as it were, follow traces of light.”
Why this project?
“To make Westerbork a little more hopeful and brighter in this dark period, when a lot of trouble is happening in the world. It is wet and cold, people often withdraw somewhat during this period. We want to send a message of hope. Within the church we live towards Christmas, the moment when God comes to earth and it becomes light again. If you share light and hope with each other, it will become more and more, is our view.”
How exactly does it work?
“From Sunday, December 3, seven windows will be unveiled four Sundays in a row. From then on, they will be illuminated daily until approximately ten o’clock in the evening. Many people go for walks in the evening in Westerbork. Now they can enjoy the illuminated windows during their walk. The idea is that by following the trail of light, you become a little more hopeful.”
Who is participating?
“Several creative residents of Westerbork have come forward. We have also approached people with the working group of both churches to participate. Via the website www.pgwesterbork.nu everyone can see the addresses. People who feel inspired can also provide their address and it will be added.”
How long will this project take?
“The Advent period lasts until Christmas, of course, but the windows remain visible for longer. The last seven windows will be unveiled just before Christmas. To give everyone credit for their work, they can all be seen until January 7.”
It’s still early, but have you had any reactions from the village?
“Yes, there are people who decorate a window who I have heard are going through a somewhat bad period. “But now that I’m working on the window, I get positive energy again,” they say. This means that the project is already a success for me, even though there is not yet an illuminated window to be seen.”