Advent Theme: “From the Margins to the Manger” – We often internalize a hallmark version of Christmas, with soft-focus images and romanticized relationships. But when God called Mary to be the mother of Jesus, it was part of an ongoing story of God choosing to make God’s salvation known through those at the margins and out of the focus of power and privilege. Come each week in Advent as we explore God’s movements on the margins that led to the manger at Christmas.
Advent Spiritual Enrichment Classes
Advent Sunday Morning Class – This class will explore Mary, Theotokos (God-bearer) in church history, the arts and different cultures, and discuss how her story informs and challenges our faith. Meeting Sunday mornings December 4, 11, and 18 at 9am either in person in Room 301 or via Zoom.
Advent Worship Services
Hanging of the Greens Service – Sunday, November 27 at 10:30am A service of Advent music and decorating the sanctuary for the season, including reflections on what each decoration means in our life of faith. In-person & online.
Christmas Choral Cantata – Sunday, December 11 @ 10:30AM Join us for a service of Advent choral and instrumental music. In-person & online.
Las Posadas Children’s Program – Sunday, December 18 @ 10:30AM. Las Posadas commemorates the journey that Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe refuge where Mary could give birth to the baby Jesus. The First Church Children and Youth program will lead us through the telling of this story. In-person & online.
The Longest Night Service – Wednesday, December 21st @ 7PM. For many people the holiday season is one filled with loneliness and grief. In the midst of a season of light, the Longest Night Service honors the darkness that is also a part of life. This service can be a special gift to those outside our church family who are in need of comfort and support. In-person & online.
Christmas Eve Family Service 5PM – Saturday, December 24 @ 5PM. First Church’s Family Christmas Eve service. We will hear the story of the Christ-child’s birth, sing Christmas hymns, and share in Holy Communion. In-person & online.
Join us at 4:30pm before the service for Hot Cocoa and Caroling in the Breezeway by the Holiday Harmony Carolers!
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 11PM – Friday, December 24 @ 11PM. Join us as we celebrate the Christ-child’s birth, sing Christmas hymns, and illuminate a dark sanctuary one candle at a time. In-person & online.
Christmas Day Sunday service – Sunday, December 25 @ 10:30AM. Our Christmas Day Sunday service will be online only. Join us from home as we celebrate the Christmas season and center ourselves to continue the celebration. No in-person services. Online only.