Advent Series: How does a weary world rejoice?
Sundays, December 3, 10, 17, 24
Our theme this year is in response to words from the popular Christmas carol, O Holy Night:
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till Christ appear’d and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!
Fall on your knees; O hear the Angel voices!
We will ponder stories from the gospel of Luke as we seek to look through the eyes and stand in the shoes of some of the people who were weary and waiting for a new and glorious morn to break forth amid the world’s shadows. We will wonder together what it might mean to deepen our sense of joy and allow it to ground us amid the pain, the grief, the anxieties and the injustices we experience in our lives and the world around us.
Please note that our 4th Sunday of Advent service will fall on the morning of Christmas Eve.
All Ages Advent Workshop
Sunday, December 3 during Fellowship Time
Make a take-home Advent wreath to pray with throughout the season. Candles, greens, and recycled paper forms will be available. Take home devotionals and children/youth advent calendars will also be available this year to support and nourish you during this sacred time of darkness and preparation.
Advent Devotional Guide
Beginning with the first Sunday in Advent, this daily devotional follows the Christmas story in Luke 1–2, concluding with Baptism of the Lord Sunday. It includes weekly readings to follow at your own pace. The guide is available in an e-reader version; please contact Rev. Lacey Hunter for the link. Printed copies are also available at church.
All Ages Pick-Up Christmas Pageant
Sunday, December 17 at 10:30am
What do the different characters in the Christmas story reveal to us about practicing joy in a weary, complex world? Come experience who you are in the unfolding mystery this year. All are invited to help tell the story! No rehearsals necessary. Participate however you feel led. The pageant will be the worship service, weaving together the characters, our lives and practices to carry us forward.
Always Believe! 141st Annual Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 17 at 5:00pm
Join in this beloved community event to celebrate the awe of the Christmas season through music. The concert is free and a good will offering will be shared between the Alameda Midway Shelter and our church’s ministries. More info here.
Candlelight Christmas Eve: A Weary World Rejoices!
Sunday, December 24 at 5:00pm
We gather to light candles and attend to the shadows they cast. We listen to the Christmas story and remember how hope can touch the despairing, justice can pave the way for peace, and our own weary hearts can join in singing a song of good news of great joy for all people. There will be special music from our vocal and bell choirs, a special time with the children and nursery care for the youngest among us. We will close with a Silent Night candle lighting.
