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"Entering Advent with New Eyes”

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As December begins, we step into a season not of rushing toward Christmas, but of slowing down enough to notice how God is already drawing near. Advent invites us to learn to see with fresh eyes; to look at the world with attention, tenderness, and wonder. This year during Advent, our worship will explore how the world itself becomes a sanctuary when we learn to recognize God’s presence shimmering through creation.

· In the first week, we will begin with the practice of noticing grace in everyday life; those small but luminous moments that remind us that hope is already taking root.

· In the second week, we will turn to water, remembering our baptism and discovering how sacred water calls us toward peace through healing, justice, and care for the earth.

· In the third week, we will reflect on sacred places and the deep joy that arises when we become aware that the ground beneath our feet is holy.

· And in the final week of Advent, we will gather all these threads together as we prepare our hearts for the love that comes among us in the Christ who is always being born.

In a world full of noise and urgency, Advent invites us to breathe, slow down, and make room for the quiet ways God is breaking in. My hope is that this season will help us notice the holy right where we are and prepare us to welcome the light that is coming into the world.

I also invite you to join us for our Blue Christmas Service on December 21st at 4:00 p.m., a gentle and contemplative gathering for those who carry grief or heaviness during this season.

And please plan to celebrate with us on Christmas Eve, as we welcome the Light who comes into the world with hope, wonder, and joy.

Blessings,

Pastor James

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