You might be thinking about Thanksgiving cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, or the long drive to your sister's house, or the joy of seeing your grandchildren. Meanwhile, I am thinking about ADVENT! Which begins this Sunday! And this year we are trying something new: we have purchased Advent materials from Sanctified Art, a group of pastors and artists that create themed resources for churches.
This Advent we will embark on a journey together exploring: What do you Fear? Insisting on Hope! In sermons, music, prayers, personal devotions, small groups, and Sunday School we will move through the season together focused on this theme. We will be invited to reflect on the things that we fear, and then to grasp onto the gospel message of hope. We encourage you to join us for Sunday worship -- and to engage the season with these lovely resources:
Advent Film. Enjoy this short film that introduces the season's theme of facing our fears and cultivating hope.
Advent Calendar. Post this on your fridge or keep it next to your bed to encourage a daily moment for a breath prayer. We will have printed copies available outside the sanctuary.
Advent Devotional. Move through the Advent weeks with scripture, art, poetry and reflection prompts. Our friends at Sanctified Art have provided a special e-reader version of this year’s devotional, which you can access on your computer and mobile devices HERE. In order to protect their work, please refrain from sharing this link or posting on social media. We will also have some printed copies available on Sunday.
Children's Bulletins. Pick up a kids' bulletin on your way into worship! Or if you can't be with us in person, print it out and use at home! Here is the bulletin for the First Sunday of Advent.
Art Reflection Sessions: Dec 14, Dec 21, Jan 4. Gather in the Smith Purdon Room at 11:30 am with Martha Johnson and Lisa Doucett to explore our Advent theme through art, prayer and reflections. For all ages! All are welcome!
Join us for this rich and gorgeous season as we face our fears and insist on hope! Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people!
