the parish advent letter

To the Parish of Grace Church –
 
Once the clocks changed, it got darker fast.  Morning light and afternoon light are shorter and with greater clarity and then it’s dark. Again.  To some, this may be an invitation to read, drink tea, cook, be cozy and enjoy the dark.  To others, the dark may be a metaphor for the state of the world:  war between Hamas and Israel; war between Russia and Ukraine; the looming Presidential election; political instability in the world; climate crisis…. You get the idea.
 
Into all this comes the Season of Advent:  A season of light in the darkness.  A time of hope; a time of preparation, and ultimately the Season that culminates with the birth of God’s Son.  Right here.  On earth.  With us.  Still miraculous, and still so unexpected that it catches me up short every time I think about it.
 
At this time of year, I try to tune out the noise of consumerism and focus on the coming birth:  the Incarnation of God on earth.  It’s a time of wonder and of great beauty.  This year, Advent feels similar to a runway at night – a path lighted forward in the dark; a place to land in safety, and a way through the dark.
 
This past year has been one of blessings – we have accomplished much; and loss, in that we have lost several long-term and beloved parishioners.  If there is someone you would like to remember in our corporate prayers at Christmas, please email or return the attached form to the Parish office at [email protected], drop the form off, or mail it so that we have your information by December 18.
 
A flyer that lists all the services and events for Advent and Christmas is posted on the Welcome Page of this website  Please invite your friends to join us for any and all services and events!
 
I wish you a blessed Advent.  May it be a time to slow down (I mean it); to make room for silence and wonder; to make time to connect with God, God’s infant Son, or with Mary, His mother.
 
God bless you,
 
Stephen+