Truth comes from the Old English word triewth, which translates as faithfulness or constancy. This definition refers to a state of character or to the steadfastness of something. To Enlightenment-influenced, postmodern ears, truth can be something to pin down and examine under a microscope. Truth can be manipulated as a possession or a weapon. The Jesus narrative in the gospel of Luke gives us another way of looking at truth. Truth is story. Truth is witness. Truth is prophecy. Truth is action. Truth has consequences: the kind of consequences that leave people transformed.
What kind of change is God working in you this Advent? What kind of truth is God stirring up in you to proclaim, to act on, to challenge others to see? Encounter the truth of God-with-us, disrupting us all this Advent.
Advent Wreath Making
Sun., Dec. 2 • Noon
During this annual event on the first Sunday of Advent, we provide the wreaths, greens and candles and suggest bringing gloves and clippers. Wreath making takes place after worship. A $10 per wreath donation is appreciated. Devotional materials and spiritual practice ideas will be available.
Singing for the Soul
Wed., Dec. 5 • 5:30 p.m.
Join us in the Sanctuary to sing and experience a variety of inspirational chants, folk music and classic tunes, including melodies from the Taize Community in France. No printed music will be distributed, and no musical training is required.
Mid-Week Worship
Thursdays, Dec. 6-20 • 5:30 – 6:15 p.m.
Pause and attend our weekly prayer service to hold the community and world in prayer. On Dec. 20 we will have a special service of lament for those who find the holiday season painful.
Progressive Dinner Party for Youth
Fri., Dec. 7 • 6-9 p.m.
Our epic, three-home, three-course dinner extravaganza continues! All middle and high school youth are invited to bring a cheap/junk/joke wrapped gift (less than $10) for a game. Note: It is important to RSVP to Michele Ward (michele@ browndowntown.org). Drivers will be needed for the location transitions. Dinner locations are TBD.
Sanctuary Decorating
Sat., Dec. 22 • 10 a.m.-Noon
Help us adorn the sanctuary with greens and poinsettias.
Mid-Week Bible Study
Wednesdays • 10:30 a.m.
Meet on the Church House first floor with a ministry staff member for this weekly Bible Study focused on Walter Brueggemann’s book of daily readings and reflections, “Gift and Task,” based on the church year that begins in Advent. Books are $14 and can be ordered with Rachel Cunningham, [email protected], 410-523-1542, ext. 14.
Christmas Pageant for Everyone
Sun., Dec. 23 • 11 a.m.
Note: No Education Hour or Meditation Circle. We are keeping this year’s Christmas pageant simple but fun. No rehearsals. No memorized lines. It will be all improv! Everyone in the congregation is invited to participate in telling the central story of our faith. Costumes will be available, so come a little early if you wish to wear one.
Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols Service of Worship
Mon., Dec. 24 • 5:30 p.m. (Prelude begins at 5 p.m.)
A candlelight service retelling the Christmas story interspersed with favorite carols sung by the Chancel Choir, soloists and congregation. The Nursery opens at 4:30 p.m.
Worship
Sun., Dec. 30 • 11 a.m.
Note: No Education Hour or Meditation Circle. Come celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas and learn more about the history of the carol with the same name. A Tiffany window tour takes place at 12:30 p.m.
Winter Clothing Drive
Dec. 2-30
Donate new or gently used coats, gloves, scarfs and socks for the Samaritan Community. Some clothing will stay at Brown for those in need. Donation baskets will be located in the back of the Sanctuary.