Advent Worship
Our Christmas narratives are filled with angelic beings bringing advice, warnings, and good news of great joy. They appear in the night sky, in the sanctuary incense, and in the ordinary routines of women. Angels in the Bible are not unique to the Christmas story. They appear throughout the Bible during significant moments in the history of God’s people with hope, peace, salvation, direction, warnings, and identity.
Join us for worship each Sunday this December to explore how these messages from angels can speak God’s voice to us yet today.
December 1 – Luke 1:5-25
Zechariah is startled by his angelic encounter while serving as priest in the sanctuary. Messengers from God always require an RSVP. Zechariah’s response gets him in trouble. Feast on the bread of angels on this communion Sunday.
December 8 – Luke 1:26-38
Angel Gabriel appears next in Nazareth making a house call to Mary. She is at first ‘perplexed’ by his message, but she ‘ponders’ the greeting and responds to her message quite differently than her uncle.
December 15 – Matthew 1:18-25
It’s Joseph’s turn for an ‘angel of the Lord’ special message delivery. He receives his news in a dream inviting him to break social custom and live courageously outside the box.
December 22 – Luke 2:8-14 and Matthew 2:1-12
Shepherds are terrified when the night sky fills with light and a message from God. Magi are wise when messengers bring a warning for their safe deliverance. Angelic appearance weave words of joy and danger into our daily quests.
Christmas Eve at Saint Paul
We will celebrate Christmas Eve at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. This worship experience is for the whole family and includes traditional carols led by the Saint Paul Choir and guest musicians. Both services conclude with “Silent Night” by candlelight.
More Advent Opportunities
