Brothers and sisters,
I wanted to write to you all this week and give you a quick run-down of everything happening at our church during the Advent season—cause there’s a lot!
First, on Sunday, December 1st, we will be having our usual Hanging of the Greens service during morning worship. The Hanging of the Greens is a traditional service that acts as the official beginning of Advent. During the service, we will reflect on what the symbols of Advent mean and how they connect to the story of Jesus’ birth. This is always a beautiful service with lots of participation from the congregation, so come and bring in the Advent season with us!
Then, on December 7th, from 3:00-5:00, Frances Smith and others will be leading an Advent Craft Workshop. There is an announcement with more details in this newsletter, so be sure to read through it. If you have any questions, be sure to contact Frances. Everyone is invited to come and participate in this event! Come on out and make something for Christmas!
On December 8th, we will have our usual Sunday morning worship, but we will celebrate the Lord’s Supper this Sunday.
Next, on December 15th during morning worship, we will have our Christmas musical service, “The Candles of Christmas”, with a reception in the Fellowship Hall after-ward. If you have not been to one of these musical services in the past, I highly recommend you come! The music is beautiful, the readings are inspiring, and the food is delicious! Do yourself a favor and mark your calendar for this one!
Finally, we will have our Christmas Eve Communion and Candlelight Service on Tuesday, December 24th at 5:00 PM in the sanctuary. After all the hustle and bustle that comes with the Christmas season, this service always serves as a time of respite. At this service, we will celebrate the birth of Jesus, remember his sacrifice, and ponder the great mystery of Immanuel, “God with us.” This service always ends with us singing “Silent Night” by the light of candles—a perfect way to finish the season of Advent.
I look forward to seeing you all at each of these events!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Ben