December, 2024

ADVENT IS HERE

I grew up in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and while we talked about Advent as a preparation for Christmas, we had no Advent Wreath in the sanctuary of Pfafftown Christian Church. No four candles to light, no circular wreath, no themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. In college I learned how other faith traditions worshipped and was introduced to the Advent Wreath.

I was serving the Southwest Christian Church in Kinston, NC, as a student minister, and decided to present it to the church. I asked Bobby Hunter to build a wreath we could hang from the sanctuary ceiling. He did a fine job. That Advent, the candles were lit, and then on Christmas Eve, the Christ Candle’s flame pointed us to the joy of Christmas Day.

I think of Bobby and that congregation often, because in my office sits the Advent Wreath holder that he made 47 years ago. It has been part of worship in First Christian Church of Anna, Texas, of Centennial Christian Church in McCoy, VA, and here in Olive Branch Christian Church. I think of those I have been blessed to worship with in those churches, and I smile with joy.

he last couple of Sundays have led us to see how important it is to be together, not just for worship, but for the encouragement we receive from being with our church family. We need each other, we need the support and love that comes from being in relationship with each other. Especially in times such as this, when we seek to know that peace is still a possibility, that love abounds, that there is power in hope, and joy in being with each other.

This Advent and Christmas, make new memories. Come and worship with your church family. Sing the carols of Christmas, share in the Lord’s Supper, and on Christmas Eve, witness the lighting of the Christ candle, the light that shines in the darkness. It all begins December 1st, as we decorate our Sanctuary, in preparation for the coming of the Lord.

Blessings ~ Pastor Richard
December, 2024