Advent Expectations

The Christian church sets aside the four weeks prior to Christmas as a time for anticipation and preparation, not only for the upcoming Christmas holiday, but for new realizations about one's own life.  The Biblical texts at the beginning of Advent are about human yearning for the end time when God promises justice and peace.  As the church moves closer to Christmas, the texts begin to focus on what we can do, here and now, to move toward a more just life.  Then on Christmas Eve, we celebrate the birth of one who gave the world new visions of a just society.

At Pilgrim, every Sunday during Advent has its own character and joy.

November 30 we will hang the greens during worship--literally decorating the sanctuary during the service of poetry and song, story and drama.  It's a wonderful introduction to the season.

December 7 we will celebrate with Holy Communion and Advent hymns.  After worship, we will gather in Fellowship Hall for lunch and our Annual Advent Workshop.  There will be opportunities to make decorations and ornaments for home as well as a small craft market by Pilgrim members.

December 14 the Pilgrim Choir will present Conrad Susa's Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest, accompanied by harp and marimba.  The Carols and Lullabies are from various Spanish and Hispanic traditions.  Handicrafts from Guatemala will be on sale during the coffee hour to help fund a service learning trip next summer.

December 21 will be an intergenerational re-telling of the nativity story by the animals who were in the stable that first Christmas.  Pilgrim's Handbell Choir, Bellissimo, will play.  This is a light-hearted look at Christmas.

Christmas Eve worship will be held at 5:00 and 10:00 on Christmas Eve.  Both services will feature carol singing and candlelight.

December 28 we will listen to personal Christmas stories around the theme, "I Remember Christmas." Our own stories are poignant and powerful.

Enjoy any or all of our holiday services at 10:00 on Sunday morning or watch our broadcast Wednesday or Thursday on PACT-TV (cable channel 180.)  Check our Facebook page for pictures and video clips.