Finding connection and belonging this Advent
Devotional: Bless the Advent We Actually Have
Self-guided | At home
This daily devotional by Kate Bowler and The Everything Happens Project can be used beginning on December 3 through Christmas Day. Each devotion is designed to take around 20 minutes, which includes the time to read the Scripture, a short devotional, a blessing from Bowler’s The Lives We Actually Have, and some reflection questions. If you would like a printed copy, contact the church office.
Contemplative Prayer and Meditation
Monday, December 4 and 11 | 7:00 p.m.
Ground yourself through a quiet, guided time of quiet contemplation and meditation. Each session begins with some brief discussion and co-learning, followed by about 30 minutes of meditation. This group welcomes beginners and those at every stage of practice. On December 4, the group will meet in the France Room, and via Zoom on December 11.
Adult Education: “Facing the Darkness Together”
Sunday, December 3 and 10 | 9:00 a.m. in the Library
“Advent,” says Fleming Rutledge, “begins in the dark.” And, therefore, it is not for the faint of heart. At the midnight of the Christian year, the season of advent is rife with dark, gritty realities, suffering, sin, alienation, oppression, and the apparent hiddenness and absence of God. Three articles will guide us through this season, we who might fear the dark. Advent reminds us that God’s light shines in the darkness (John 1:5), but we might first have to face the darkness to see it. Join us for a rich, unconventional take on the meaning of this season. Ken Kovacs will lead this two-part class at 9 a.m. in the Library on December 3 and 10.
Advent Gathering
Sunday, December 3 | After worship in the Fellowship Hall
After worship on December 3, there are activities for all ages. There will be crafts, refreshments, and gift assembly for “Christmas at Sea” through the Baltimore International Seafarer’s Center (BISC).
Holiday Trivia Night
Friday, December 8 | 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall
On Friday, December 8 at 7:00 p.m., we will be hosting a trivia night with dessert! Get ready to participate in Christmas trivia, with categories such as Christmas Music, and Holiday Traditions.
Second Sunday Programs
Sunday, December 10
Children’s and youth ministry is especially active on Second Sundays, with a variety of structured programming. Childcare is available beginning at 10:00 a.m.; youth gather upstairs at 10:00 a.m. for hot chocolate and conversation; and children in kindergarten through fifth grade attend church school at the conclusion of the children’s message.
Cocoa and Carols
Sunday, December 10 | 6:00 p.m. by the Beechwood ramp
Circle up on December 10 at 6:00 p.m. for Cocoa and Carols! This outdoor event will include a brass quintet, plenty of hot chocolate, and an even warmer sense of connection between neighbors and friends. This family-friendly gathering is completely free and open to everyone who loves singing (or listening!). Be sure to bundle up and meet us at the Beechwood ramp for this annual community celebration.
Cookie Walk
Sunday, December 17 | After worship in the Fellowship Hall
After the festive service of music on December 17, head over to the Fellowship Hall for the 2023 Cookie Walk! A wide variety of homemade cookies will be available for sale by the pound, and all proceeds will benefit the Santi School in Nepal.
