Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 19, 2021

Please note: there will not be an edited version of this Sunday’s video.

Dear Beloved Community,

This Sunday, December 19th at 10 am, we will gather to celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent by returning to the beginning story of Mary and Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke.  Advent is a brief, four Sunday, season of the church year where we focus on the preparation for the birth of Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.  We will light four candles on our Advent Wreath (lovingly prepared by Barbara Johnston).

The scripture readings are highlighted by one of the most revered and well-known passages the world over: Mary’s Magnificat.  We have come to know and reflect on this passage over the years through the version we sing during Lent as part of the Holden Evening Vespers. It is a powerful message that sets the tone for Jesus’ upbringing toward his mission as Savior of the world, which will come in very unexpected and upturned ways.

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Third Sunday of Advent – December 12, 2021

Dear Beloved Community,

This Sunday, December 12th at 10 am, we will gather to celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent – “Rejoice Sunday”  Advent is a brief, four Sunday, season of the church year where we focus on the preparation for the birth of Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.  We will light 3 candles on our Advent Wreath (lovingly prepared by Barbara Johnston).

The scripture readings focus on the call and message of the one born to prepare the way for Christ – John the Baptist.  The message of repentance is one that is joyful because it is calling humanity to the good news for so many of the hurting and despairing that God’s ways of merciful justice, radical generosity, and vocational integrity are going to come!

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