This week we had the wonderful opportunity to film with the volunteers of the Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in Detroit on Gratiot as they start their preparation for the Christmas season.

We interviewed volunteer Jon Middeldorf to learn more about the two week long decorating tradition. Since before 1866, the church has been putting up Christmas decorations with it taking full force in the ‘80s with Rev. Dr. David Eberhard and current Rev. Darryl Lee Andrzejewski who have embraced the routine.

The decorations are impressive with approximately 350 creche nativity sets, miles of garland, 40 different trees all with different religious themes, and the 24ft. Christmas tree as their main centerpiece.

The church usually has about 50-100 volunteers that help make this happen. It’s hard not to feel the Christmas spirit when entering the church and spending time with these volunteers.

We are so fortunate to be featuring Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in our film, Detroit: The City of Churches