Christmas in the Dominican Republic



Christmas in the Dominican Republic begins the first part of October and runs for about three and one half months ending on January 6-Three Kings day.  That is when gifts are exchanged.

A large  tower in a park  on one of the main streets has been made into a Christmas tree

One business put this large bow on the side of their building turning it into a big gift!

All along main streets these Christmas decorations and trees are displayed and sold.

More decorations. They are made out of willows, vines and sticks, then some get a coat of paint and glitter.

And still more decorations

The Bill Goodrich family at the manger scene at the temple on Christmas day.

The Santo Domingo Temple

One of the most beautiful places in Santo Domingo is the temple grounds.  In contrast to the rest of the city, you can find peace and quiet in a clean and well cared for grounds.

            
                  
       As you drive through the gate you see plants larger than elephant ears on your left

      Then, on the right you get your first glimpse of the temple through the palm trees.

 Everywhere you look plants are shaped and trimmed into beautiful designs.  This shot is taken near the front entrance looking to the south west.....

 and then turning around and taking another shot toward the front door.  Elder Snow is in the picture.

 Walking around the corner and looking north along the west fence.

 looking back at the same shot from the other end of the hedges.

 West of the temple.  the pink and orange flowers are the national flower.

 All the trimming is done with hand trimmers...no electric tools!

 Looking at Angel Moroni from the west side of the temple.

 Everywhere you look, all around the temple are neatly trimmed bushes and shrubs.

 Following an earthquake in January scaffolding went up to check for any damage.  Everything seemed to be okay.

What an amazing place and what a blessing to the people here.