Happy new (liturgical) year! Despite the fact that Christmas decorations arrive ever-earlier, and the reality that many of us reading this will be mostly focused on Thanksgiving and its aftermath, a new time in the church year is—literally—right around the corner. The season of Advent arrives this weekend, and with it comes a distinct shift in liturgical tone and spiritual orientation.
One focus in Advent is on “preparation.” There are lots of ways we can prepare, and it is incumbent upon us not to allow the busyness of literal preparation overcome the seasonal process of reorienting our hearts. To-do lists have their place, and action steps come with relationships. Still, in addition to all of that, Advent offers us invitations: to alter our vision; to turn toward the birth of something new.
The specifics of God’s Advent invitations will be different for every one of us, as will the process of responding. Over the next few weeks, Holy Apostles will offer two opportunities for people to explore ways in which God is speaking in their lives. Our Christian Education series in over the next three Sundays will focus on discernment, with Mother Susan leading online sessions from 9:00-9:45 am about what it means to hear God calling to us. And all are welcome to gather online from 8:30-9:00 am on Mondays for Poetry and Prayer in Advent. This time together will include contemplation, the reading of a poem, and opportunity for shared reflections.
As always, all are welcome.
Advent blessings,
