Leaning Into Advent: Hope, Peace, Love, & Joy
The church season of Advent encourages Christians to prepare for the arrival and inbreaking of God, not only in the birth of the Christ-child, but even now, leading up to the time when God will make all things new. The word “advent” is derived from the Latin word, adventus, meaning “a coming or an approach.” There are many traditions people of faith have created to help us in recognizing what God is up to, which includes the lighting of the advent wreath.
While the origins of the advent wreath are unknown, it appears popular use of lighting candles on a wreath started among church-folk sometime in the 17th century, in Germany. Spreading quickly across Europe, both congregations and households would light their weekly candles as a purposeful reminder that the light of Christ shines in the darkness. The circular shape of the evergreen wreath reminds us of God’s infinite love, and the themes of each candle, Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy, as the church implemented the tradition into worship liturgies.
This year our worship services in December will invite us into these candle themes. By faith, we trust the promise of hope, love, joy, and peace that accompany God’s coming to us in the past, present and future. This December amidst the stress of the season, whether busy schedules or adjusting to changes in your life, we proclaim that our God who shows up, shows up for you too. Here are just a few of the additional opportunities at Hope this month to intentionally break from our daily rhythms to connect with God and each other.
Advent Wednesday Worship: Join us from 6:15-6:45pm as we host our Midweek Advent Services around the themes Hope, Love, and Joy. These services have been carefully planned by our 9th Grade confirmation students, crafted to help all in our community dwell deeply in the promises of God. Come to hear meditative reflections, as we sing, pray, and commune by candlelight. Simple suppers will be served beginning at 5:15pm for a suggested donation of $2/person, and as always, ALL ARE WELCOME.
Advent Sunday Worship: We gather as the people of God have for centuries, embracing the anticipated arrival of the Christ child. Worship will feature the lighting of our Advent wreath, and will implement components of Marty Haugen’s masterpiece, “Holden Evening Prayer.” Scripture will highlight Mary, a woman of strength and courage, through whom our advent themes come alive. Sunday worship will feature the musical gifts of Hope’s Chancel Choir, Sunday School children, Bell Choir, Joyful Noise choir, House Band, and duets with Mike Kerrigan and Julie Bright.
Community Christmas Concert: This year Hope will once again host a Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 7, to benefit the community’s Toys 4 Kids program. The concert, organized by Sherren Foss, will begin at 6:30pm, which will include a freewill offering. A meal will be served beforehand, beginning at 5:30pm. In November, Hope’s High School youth spent a day shopping and delivering gift baskets and toys to 1st National Bank, the program’s host organization.
Christmas Caroling: The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Join our roving band of carolers on Sunday, December 8 following worship, as we share the message of Christmas through the lyrics and joyful melodies of classic carols. All ages are encouraged to join us, and instruments will be available for those who wish to play along.
Christmas Eve: All are welcome as we gather for our traditional candlelight worship at 3:00pm and 5:00pm. At these services we will recount the heartwarming arrival of God in Christ, through scripture, singing the carols that draw us near the manger, and sharing the body of blood of Jesus, who promises to show up and invites everyone.
On a more personal note, as we journey through the preparation of Advent, and finally arrive at the celebration of Christ’s birth, I pray that the Lord our God might bless you according to that which will lift your spirit here and now. From me, your brother and co-worker in Christ, and my whole family, have a happy Advent and a very Merry Christmas!
Peace be with you,
Pastor Matt