“May the god of hope fill you with all joy and peace.” – Romans 15:13
Advent Devotional: All Creation Waits
This devotional for children and adults explores the idea that animals from foxes to deer wait for the hope of spring and new life just as God promised the coming of Jesus Christ. Available in the Gathering Area. Requested donation: $10.
First Sunday of Advent | November 30
“Teach us God’s ways.” ~Isaiah 2:3
Adult Ed 9:40 a.m.
The History of God as Exposed in Divine Names is the subject for this session. You’ve heard it said that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. True as this may be in some sense, it is also true that God has a history, revealed in the names used for deity in Israel. It is our detective work on Hebrew names, iconography, and mythic and epic texts reveals the surprises of the Israelite God-concept and lays the groundwork for the emergence of the new version of deity of the Christian movement. This presentation will be led by Dr. Barry Bandstra, Hope College emeritus professor of Hebrew Bible and Hebrew Language, who received his professional education at Calvin Theological Seminary and Yale University.
Evening Activities
At 5:00 p.m., families can be creative together, making Advent/Christmas crafts with all materials provided. Youth grades 6 to 12 will participate in the creation of a community art piece, themed around the light of Advent and celebration of the Creation Care Ministry’s solar installation. In the sanctuary, Rhonda Edginton will feature, in an organ recital, Advent and Christmas music with congregational singing.
At 5:45 p.m., we will share supper and the lighting of the Advent candles.
Second Sunday of Advent | December 7
“That we might have hope.” ~Romans 15:4
St. Nicholas Breakfast and Celebration 10:00 a.m.
The Breakfast and Celebration is a time to remember the traditions of St. Nicholas and his generosity, which reminds us of God’s love. Each child should bring an extra shoe to be filled with treats. Sign up in the Gathering Area or online.
Third Sunday of Advent | December 14
“Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God.” ~Isaiah 35:4
Adult Ed 9:40 a.m.
Adult Ed will offer part two of Barry Bandstra’s history of God: The Hebrew Bible, Advent, and Angels. We will explore how the Old Testament God-concept and its biblical cosmology indelibly shaped the presentation of the birth narrative of Jesus of Nazareth in Matthew and Luke. From stars in heaven to annunciating angels to virgin birth, we will see how these storied elements tie the birth of Jesus to the expectations and images of the Hebrew Bible.
Pizza Lunch and Caroling
After Pizza Lunch, you can share the spirit of celebration and joy with those who find it difficult to join us in person. Poinsettias, gift bags, and cards will be shared as we carol. You don’t have to have a great voice, just a smile to share; all ages are welcome to participate. Caroling will begin at 12:45 p.m.
Fourth Sunday of Advent | December 21
“…They shall name him Emmanuel… God is with us.” ~Luke 1:41
There is no Adult Ed on December 21 or 28 or January 4. Join us for worship at 11:00 a.m., including Children in Worship at 11:15 a.m.
Christmas Eve | December 24
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy.” ~Romans 15:13
Family Service 5:30 p.m.
At the 5:30 p.m. service, Christmas carols will be sung and the Christmas Story will be told as we worship the Christ child together. The pageant is a wonderful way for the whole community to celebrate the season as children act out the events of the gospel story. Toddlers through fifth graders are invited to participate. Children of visiting family and friends are welcome to participate too! We are gathering angels, shepherds, magi, and sheep. Costumes can be very simple, from home or borrowed from Hope Church. Borrowed costumes can be picked up the mornings of December 14 and 21 or at 5 p.m. on December 24.
Candlelight Service 11:00 p.m.
At 11:00 p.m., we’ll gather for a Candlelight Service, during which communion will be celebrated. At the conclusion of the service, we will greet Christmas morning outdoors in the parking lot to welcome the Christ child.
First Sunday after Christmas | December 28
At 11:00 a.m., we’ll worship together with carols, scripture, poetry, celebration, and reflection.