The season of Advent begins on December 2, 2018! During this winter season, we look towards the past and the future as we anticipate the arrival of Christ. First, we look to the past: to the birth of God incarnate in a manger in Bethlehem. Second, we look to the future: to the return of the risen Christ in glory. And, always, we look to the hope that Christ embodies for ourselves and our world.
At First Congregational United Church of Christ, we’ll recognize the season of Advent in two ways.
During worship, we will light the traditional Advent wreath. The four candles in the wreath represent different things in different Christian traditions. We will use them to represent, on each Sunday, hope (December 2), peace (December 9), love (December 16), and joy (December 24). Of course, our preaching, hymns, and prayers will also reflect the traditional Advent themes.
On Wednesday nights, we’ll have a short combination Bible study and worship service. We’ll use this time to talk about what a messiah is through Jesus’s genealogies (Luke 3:23-38 and Matthew 1:1-17), Songs of Hope (Luke 1:46-55 and 67-80), Empire and Shepherds (Luke 2:1-20). You can read more here.
Most importantly, we will prepare to celebrate Christ’s entrance into the world on Christmas and into our hearts every day. I hope that you’ll join us as we celebrate this wonderful Advent season!