In the early 2000s, Colleen Selmer, along with Jaffrey and Rindge community members, organized the first winter market to raise money for Advent Lutheran Church in Rindge.
The event included a small table inside the church called “Colleen’s Bake Shop,” where Selmer sold her pastries. Over the years, the winter market has grown to hosting local vendors and even offered a silent auction and basket raffles. To honor Selmer, who died in 2009, Advent Lutheran Church has kept the annual winter market tradition alive.
On Nov. 12, dozens of community members gathered at Advent Lutheran Church to get an early start on the holiday season. Holiday decorations and prizes lined the walls, and the aroma of fresh-baked goods filled the room. Community members bid on local and international garments, jewelry and household items in a silent auction. The event also offered a basket raffle with nearly 20 assorted bundles, each with a unique theme like “Football Party,” “Cocktail Party” and “Taste of Monadnock.”
Winter market coordinator Maryanne Bates said church members have been preparing all fall to host the annual event.
“It’s a group effort,” said Bates. “It’s very rewarding to see people come through the door year after year and are happy with what you’ve done.”
Community members also shopped local vendors such as Swanzey-based Finlandia Woodworking, Candy’s Creations in Rindge and Stonewall Fields Alpaca Farm in Fitzwilliam. For the last four years, Stonewall Fields Alpaca Farm owner Brenda Berg and her business partner Betsey Brooks have been setting up shop at the market to sell their wool hats, gloves and socks. Berg said the winter market is an opportunity to showcase her passion for animals and handmade products.
“It’s a beautiful event and great exposure for the farm,” said Berg. “I talk about alpacas and why I love what I do.”
For Advent Lutheran Church Pastor Robert Lindberg, owner of Finlandia Woodworking, the annual event promotes unity in the church.
“It gives the church community a chance to be together,” he said.
According to church Financial Secretary Dan Truong, Advent Lutheran raised $2,300 from the winter market this year, including $1,157 from the basket raffle alone. Truong said this year’s event was one for the books.
“It was great, the sun came out, the people came in, and everybody in the community turned out,” he said.
The Advent Lutheran Church will be hosting a drive-through community dinner in February 2023, and donations are accepted.