Darkness, broken by soft candlelight and electric light somewhat harsher and reflected by shiny surfaces. A cross, two candlesticks, antiseptically clean robes, well-scrubbed faces, finely-dressed, well-mannered, reasonably contented people gathered here in this place, in this building. For what are we here?

Why are we here? To sing favorite carols? To seek forgiveness for guilt? The family always comes together to church on Christmas? To glimpse a vision?

Another dark night when a few stars pierce the black, like tiny bulbs blinking atop a tall pole. Rough countryside whose stillness is broken by the baa's of sheep. Cold, dirty sheep milling together for warmth and comfort. Tired, stinking men huddled around a fire for warmth and comfort. A blinding, flashing light. They glimpse a visio…