Advent Season at St. Matthias
Advent is the beginning of a new church year, a time for reflection and anticipation not only of Christmas, but of Christ’s return. It is a season to both acknowledge all the suffering and injustice in the world and renew our belief and hope that Christ will return to complete God’s work begun in the resurrection. Traditions and practices special to the season include: Advent Wreath: During Advent, we will begin every Sunday service in the season with the lighting of our Advent Wreath accompanied by prayers and a brief summary of each week’s symbolism. We will give out candles and a set of prayers so you can take the tradition at home. Devotional: Everyone is welcome to take a FREE Advent Devotional Practicing Wonder with All Your Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind from Living Compass, an Episcopal spiritual wholeness and wellness ministry. These devotionals feature multiple levels of engagement. You may read it privately as a daily devotional. In addition, you may also use it for spiritual journal, reflecting on questions to assist in making each daily devotion part of your spiritual growth. You may also use the devotionals for small group discussions. Discussion Group: Every Wednesday in Advent our rector Mother Deborah will host a discussion of the Advent devotional at 12:00 noon at St. Matthias. Bring your own lunch if you want and explore the wonder of the season together.
Christmas at St. Matthias You are invited to celebrate with us and experience the comfort and joy of Christ’s birth. Christmas Eve service 5:00 pm. A traditional service with hymns, sermon Holy Communion and special prayers that reflect the glory of God. Christmas Day service 10:00 am. A quiet, peaceful service with a special sermon, hymns, and prayers that brings us closer to the mystery of God becoming flesh and dwelling with us. Sunday, December 31 Lessons and Carols 10:00 am. In the Church Year Christmas is such an important celebration we can’t keep it contained in one day so we celebrate it for twelve days. On the 7th Day of Christmas, we will have a special service featuring readings and music that reflect the joy of the season. All are welcome to join us for this festive service. |