This Advent, as we return once again to the hopeful darkness, we will focus on those voices of hope and love that simply cannot be silenced.
We will listen to the prophets of Scripture and the prophets of the present moment. We’ll dig deep into the American tradition of Negro Spirituals that foretell the Christ child. We’ll open our Sanctuary for a community open house. We’ll prepare a Christmas pageant that emphasizes voices of hope and light from every corner of the world. Because when you love someone, you have to say so. Go tell it on the mountain. We need those words—and that light—more now than ever.
All are invited to celebrate the season with us.
Advent Wreath Making
Sunday, Nov. 27 • 9 a.m. & Noon
During this annual event on the first Sunday of Advent, we provide the wreaths, greens and candles and suggest bringing gloves and clippers. A $10 per wreath donation is appreciated. Devotional materials and spiritual practice ideas will be available.
Advent Bible Study
Sundays, Nov. 27, Dec. 4, 11, 18 • 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Spencer Hammond and John Walker will lead an Advent Bible study during the education hour based on African American Spirituals. They will use the book “Mary Had A Baby,” by Cheryl Kirk-Duggan and Marilyn E. Thornton, as a springboard for the discussions. Time will also be given for singing.
Midweek Worship
Thursdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 • 5:30 – 6 p.m.
Pause during the busy Advent season and attend our weekly prayer service. Together we’ll hold the community and world in prayer.
Sanctuary Decorating
Saturday, Dec. 17 • RESCHEDULE FOR 2:30-4:30 PM
Holiday Open House at Brown Memorial and Memorial Episcopal
Sunday, Dec. 18 • 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
During this community event, we will join our neighbor, Memorial Episcopal, in opening our doors for the afternoon for all to enjoy tours, music and refreshments.
Annual Christmas Pageant
Sunday, Dec. 18 • 11 a.m.
Our Advent theme this year is “Go Tell It On The Mountain.” We are sharing a story that is as old as the Scriptures and as new as the present moment. This year’s pageant will pair a traditional performance of the Christmas story with a series of adult monologues, taken from significant figures in history or literature. Our youth confirmation class will lead the pageant and our children will perform it. Youth and adults are also needed to perform monologues. Most rehearsals will take place during the education hour. Regular classes will continue for those not participating. To participate, sign up with Tim Hughes or Rachel Cunningham by Nov. 27.
Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols
Saturday, Dec. 24 • 5:30 p.m. (Music prelude begins 5 p.m.)
All are invited to a candlelight service retelling the Christmas story, with favorite carols sung by the Chancel Choir, soloists and congregation.
The nursery will be open for children, beginning at 4:30. The nursery is located on the third floor of the Fellowship Building, accessible from a left side doorway at the front of the Sanctuary. Parking and shuttle service for this service will be available one block away at Mt. Royal Elementary School. Download a parking pass.
Christmas Day Sunday & New Year’s Day Sunday
Sunday, Dec. 25 & Sunday Jan. 1 • Worship 11 a.m.
The Education Hour will not take place these Sundays.