Advent Beyond Imagination
“Advent is the glorious affirmation that God creates newness—
in the world and in your life and mine; that something new is coming.
That is the gift, the miracle of the newness that God will give to those
with imagination enough to receive it.
That is new birth that can happen in and for each and every one of us."
~ John Buchanan
“Advent is the glorious affirmation that God creates newness—
in the world and in your life and mine; that something new is coming.
That is the gift, the miracle of the newness that God will give to those
with imagination enough to receive it.
That is new birth that can happen in and for each and every one of us."
~ John Buchanan
Sunday, December 3 ~ Hope Sunday:
First Sunday of Advent Worship Services at 8:45 and 11:15 AM
Join us for the first Sunday of Advent as we begin a new liturgical year and this year’s theme, Advent Beyond Imagination. Special music from the woodwinds of Highland’s Orchestra.
Hanging of the Green at 6:00 PM
We will gather at 6 PM for our annual Hanging of the Green service to adorn the sanctuary for the season. You are invited to bring donations for Highlands Community Ministries and La Casita Community Center. (See a detailed list of needed items in the Commons). The service will be followed by a church-wide holiday reception in the Fellowship Hall.
Monday, December 4:
Sorting Soiree for Senior Adults at 9:00 AM in the Commons.
Wednesday, December 6:
On our last Wednesday night of regularly scheduled activities for the year, join Mary Alice for some of our learnings from our Advent Small Groups based on Kate Bowler’s, "Bless The Advent We Actually Have."
Friday, December 8:
Sorting Soiree for Families with Children and Youth and Young Adults at 6:00 PM at La Casita.
Saturday, December 9:
Youth Christmas Party (Location TBD. 6:00-8:30 PM).
Sunday, December 10 ~ Peace Sunday:
Second Sunday of Advent Worship Services with Crosses on the Lawn at 8:45 and 11:15 AM
The Second Sunday of Advent is our time to remember those who have been killed in our city by acts of violence. We will read each name and place crosses on the front lawn as an act of remembrance and a call to action in our community. Special music from the brass of Highland’s Orchestra.
Children’s Advent Service at 6:00 PM
Children’s voices and the ringing of bells are a highlight of the season! Join us for an evening of music from Highland’s Carol Choir, Chorister Choir, and Children’s Handbell Choir—ages 3 through 5th grade.
Tuesday, December 12:
La Casita Community Center Resource Day 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Many volunteer opportunities are available to prepare for and serve this event! See sign-ups in the Commons.
Wednesday, December 13:
Families with Children are invited to gather an outdoor hot chocolate bar and to enjoy the Christmas lights at Brown Park from 5:45-7:00 PM.
Friday, December 15 and 22:
Singing the Carols of Christmas at Friday Church at 7:00 PM
Join us as we sing our favorite Christmas carols and end each service in Candlelight.
Sunday, December 17 ~ Joy Sunday:
Third Sunday of Advent Worship Services at 8:45 and 11:15 AM
Join us for a morning of music and celebration with the Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra singing Bach’s Magnificat at 8:45 and 11:15 AM, with special music from the strings of Highland’s Orchestra.
Orchestra Christmas Concert at 6:00 PM
This delightful concert includes special solos, duets, and Highland’s Handbell Choir.
Thursday, December 21:
Longest Night Service at 6:00 PM
Christmas is often characterized as the most wonderful time of the year, but it is often anything but this, especially for those who are grieving at the holidays. Whether you are reflecting on the loss of a beloved family member or friend, a job, a relationship, a life transition - all are welcome to this quiet and reflective worship service on the longest night of the year.
Sunday, December 24 ~ Love Sunday:
Fourth Sunday of Advent Worship Service at 10:00 AM (No Bible Study).
Christmas Eve Services at 4:00 and 6:00 PM
We will gather to sing the carols of Christmas in a more casual and family-friendly service at 4:00 PM. Lessons and Carols, the centuries-old English tradition, tells the Christmas story through Scripture, carols, and music by the Sanctuary Choir at 6:00 PM. Both services end with candlelight to mark the joy of Christ’s birth!
Sunday, December 31:
Online Worship. No in-person services or activities.