In her book “Seasons of Your Heart”, Macrina Wiederkehr refers to
this time of year as the Season of Wonder, and invites the reader to get rid of those things that prevent us from experiencing a season of wonder. She likens this act of shedding what is not needed to the act of taking off your shoes, of risking a stubbed toe for the sake of celebrating life (page 2).
As we move through the sacred days of Advent, culminating in the birth of our Savior, let us remember to take of our shoes and remember the simplicity of wonder. Let us remember that the smell of pine is as important as the decorations that adorn the tree, that the softening of our hearts are the reason behind giving, that the birth of God happens not just once, but every time we remember to love as Christ loves.
While the world rushes to Christmas, pause with your shoes off and stand on the holy ground of wonder and preparation. God is. And God is not yet. It is the in-between space of those realities that we lay down our prayer. May your Advent and Christmas be filled with the gentle light of God’s grace.
Join us as you can for the many events celebrated this month.
~ Lori+
Advent Celebration with Las Posadas
With song and laughter, with story telling and fellowship, help us welcome the Mary and Joseph as they seek shelter for the birth of Christ. We begin in the Big Church at 5:00pm.
Church Greening, Sunday December 20
In preparation for Christmas, we “green” the church in the traditional manner of poinsettias and pine. Join us immediately following the 10:30 service. Bring a snack to share with others.
Christmas Eve Services, Thursday December 24
4:00pm Family Service with Children’s Pageant
All children welcome to participate in our Christmas Pageant. All kids who would like to participate, be at church by 3:45. Meet in the nursery for costuming and help us tell the Christmas Story!
10:00pm Traditional Christmas Carol Hymn-singing (note the time change)
This is your chance to sing the beloved hymns you’ve waited all year to sing!
10:30pm Festive Christmas Service with Holy Communion (note the time change)
As the hour approaches midnight, we will celebrate the birth of Christ with this traditional and festive Christmas Service with full choir and Holy Eucharist.
Christmas Day, Friday December 25
Begin this holy day with a service of Holy Communion in the Big Church at 10:00.
Lessons & Carols, 1st Sunday after Christmas, Sunday December 27
Join us in song and scripture as we welcome the Season of Christmas with a Service of Lessons & Carols at both the 8:00 and 10:30 services.