Advent is upon us

In case anyone out there is wondering why this blog has not been updated in 2 months, it's because I used to manage this blog as a way to post current events at church because someone else was managing the website and we didn't always get pages updated in a timely way. But now that I am updating the official church site myself, the blog has fallen by the wayside. Sorry about that. I'll try to find ways to make the blog more complementary, less redundant.

But even as we prepare to give thanks and stuff our faces tomorrow (is that just me? no? I didn't think so), we are also heading into one of my favorite liturgical seasons: Advent. We take four weeks before Christmas to prepare for the coming of Christ, both through readings from the prophets and the gospels about the promised Messiah, and through some apocalyptic readings about the completion of God's purposes for the world that, to be honest, are a lot harder for those of us who find meaning in a progressive approach to Christianity. So if you want to hear how I reconcile the texts about the signs in the heavens and the end of the world with my belief in a God who is at work primarily in the natural and human processes of evolution and creativity, show up this Sunday! My sermon is called "Back to the Future," and I'll explore Jeremiah 33:14-16 and Luke 21:25-36.

Check out our main website for information on current and upcoming Sunday school classes for adults, discussion of The Shack, Advent vespers services, opportunities to help those in need, and more. We have a lot going on at Highlands UMC these days, and we would be delighted to have you join us!

Advent, Advent, Advent!

Advent has begun! We are hoping, preparing, waiting, and watching for how God will come to us in new ways this holy season. There are many opportunities to participate in our faith community this month, and ALL people are welcome!

This Sunday, December 7, Pastor Betty is preaching on "Revolutionary Peace," based on Mark 1:1-8. This week is also Holy Communion, which we celebrate the first Sunday of each month. All are welcome at Christ's table.

Pastor Kerry is leading an Advent study Wednesday afternoons 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. called "What Do You Want for Christmas?" Even if you missed the first week, you are welcome to join us!

On Thursday, December 18, we will offer a "Blue Christmas" service at 7:00 p.m. in the parlor on the 2nd floor. This is a sacred space and time for all who struggle during the holidays, whether because of grief, loneliness, abuse, economic hard times, depression, or other reasons. We find that hope is most meaningful when we can acknowledge the realities of life.

Our children are eagerly preparing their Christmas play, Mystery in the Stable, which will be presented on Sunday, December 21 during our 10am worship service. If you would like your child(ren) to participate, you can learn more at our Children's Ministry page, or you can contact the church office.

Blessings on you and your family as you prepare to welcome Christ once again!