With the sun long-sunk below the horizon, the only light to guide our way through the 17th century Jesuit mission was the flickering glow cast by more than 2,000 candles. The purity of the scene warmed our souls in spite of the biting cold of the December evening.
A national historic site that recreates the 17th century headquarters of the French Jesuit mission attempting to convert the Huron natives to Christianity, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons offers a unique yuletide experience. It was here, more than 350 years ago, that the first Christmas in Ontario was celebrated by the handful of priests and their attendants who formed this isolated community. It was also here that the famous Huron Carol was written, probably by Jesuit missionary Jean de Brebeuf around 1641. The carol was most likely the first Christmas song written in North America, and is certainly the only internationally known carol taken from Native American languages.
On the nights of Nov. 21-23, Nov.28-30, and Dec. 5-7, the recreated 17th century Jesuit mission comes alive with the spectacle and sounds of ‘First Light’, a unique holiday celebration that harkens back to a simpler time, a time before commercialism when Christmas was about faith.
Entering through the front gates, you’re immediately transported back in time to the mid-1600s, perhaps to the very evening that Huron Carol was first sung. The ringing of hammer on anvil lures visitors to the smithy, where the resident blacksmith demonstrates his skill before a fire that leaps up into the darkened sky. The uses of medicinal teas and herbs are explored within the confines of the hospital, while elsewhere La Compagnie Franche de la Marine demonstrates the military drill and uniforms of colonial marines dedicated to defending New France (of which Ontario was a part) from her enemies.
Carols danced upon the snow-laced breeze, bringing back nostalgic memories of homes filled with loved ones and brimming with festive cheer. Follow them to enjoy the heavenly tunes of community choirs and the talents of Franco-Ontarian and First Nation entertainers. Hearing these timeless hymns in such a serene setting is simply inspiring.
Inspiration of another variety can be found in the cookhouse. Here, delicious baked goods and cookies are sure to leave your mouth watering. The tantalizing aroma is a reminder that the warm scent of freshly baked goods is as much a part of the festive season as a wreath upon the door or stockings hung by the fireplace. A Nativity crèche, appropriately situated in the stables, remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.
Christmas shoppers may find a gift for that hard-to-buy-for individual from among the artisans, more than a twenty in all, offering their wares for sale, ranging from jewelry to Native artwork, preservatives to festive holiday décor. And of course, the site’s gift shop will be open as well.
Children is foremost for children, of course, and what parent doesn’t cherish the wide-eyed excitement of their little ones come Christmas morning. With that in mind, First Light features plenty of hands-on activities to entertain children. Tiny hands can make their own cards with old-fashioned quill pens of craft a cornhusk doll as the Huron people would have done almost 400 years ago.
Strolling through the historic mission of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, you can’t help but be immersed in the magic of First Light. A short drive takes you to a world that existed over 350-years ago, a place where the spiritual soul of Christmas still lives. Years from now, when you revisit your cherished holiday memories, you’ll be glad that you took this trip to Midland and back through time.
Just the Facts
Location: 16164 Highway 12 East, Midland
Web: www.saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca
Admission: $10 per person with a donation of a non-perishable item; kids under 5 are free
