In Advent, God’s people wait with hope for the birth of Jesus, God’s anointed one. Advent lasts for four Sundays (and the weeks between them); lighting candles helps us mark the time as we get ready for the Light of World, Jesus Christ. Great memories can be formed as candles on a wreath are lit, scripture is read, and the hopeful anticipation of Christ’s coming is celebrated. You are invited to pick up Advent devotions displayed in the narthex (gathering space) for you/your family to use during this holy season.
Advent Worship
All are invited to mark days of anticipation and hope during the season of advent each Sunday morning at 8:30 and 11:00am worship. Our theme this Advent will be “Everlasting Light.” We will use a new liturgy, light candles on the wreath, and hear the stories of the promise of the coming of Jesus. We’ll also have a station in the gathering area where you will be invited to name the ways in which you see God’s light in the world each week. We are looking forward to celebrating this season of hope together as we celebrate God’s greatest gift of love – Jesus Christ.
Chrismon Tree Decorating, Sunday, December 15, before each worship service
A Chrismon tree is a special tree adorned with symbols of Christianity in its earliest days, such as the Alpha and Omega and the fish. Newer symbols like a dove, Bible, rose, and cross and crown can also be used. All decorations and supplies will be provided.
Christmas Caroling, Sunday, December 8, 2-4pm
You are invited to share Christmas cheer! Meet at St. Philip. Then groups will head out and about in the Roanoke Valley. Please also bring some cookies to share with folks. Sign-up in the narthex if you plan to join the fun!
Children’s Christmas Program
The children of St. Philip will share the Christmas story at the 5:30pm Christmas Eve worship service. Rehearsals for the children’s Christmas program are each Sunday at 9:50am, now through December 22.
Christmas Eve, you have two opportunities for worship:
5:30pm – Candlelight service and youth program
9:00pm – Traditional candlelight service
Holy Communion will be served at both services.
Morning Worship the First Sunday after Christmas (Lessons and Carols)
Do not miss a wonderful worship of Lessons and Carols the Sunday after Christmas, December 29th. Jesus story is told both by scripture and many timeless hymns of the Christmas season. We will have one worship service at 9:30am.