This Advent and Christmas season, Rick Steves, a beloved travel writer and member of Trinity Lutheran Church in the Seattle area, has gifted the ELCA a powerful and visually stunning resource. His 2-minute video clip brings the Gospel of Luke’s Christmas story to life through breathtaking European art. Watch the video on YouTube here or download it here.

This excerpt, taken from Rick’s acclaimed European Christmas Special, beautifully illustrates the familiar story of Jesus’ birth, offering pastors, music directors, and worship leaders a free and meaningful way to set the scene during services, concerts, or celebrations.

Rick Steves shared this video as a gift, emphasizing that it may be used freely with no need for attribution. He expressed his joy in contributing something that may bless Lutheran congregations this year and for years to come.

As we prepare our hearts and minds for Christ’s birth, this video can be a valuable tool to help your community reflect on the beauty and hope of the Christmas story. Whether you use it as part of your worship service, share it in small groups, or integrate it into digital ministry, it is a wonderful reminder of the season’s message: love, joy, and peace.

Thank you, Rick, for this thoughtful gift to the church. May your congregations find new inspiration and joy as you gather together to celebrate the coming of Christ.