The Christian Church year starts on the First Sunday of Advent. For many years Colonial Heights has begun this season with a traditional service called the Hanging of the Green, recognizing the greenery that we decorate our sanctuary with during this season.
Scripturally, Advent begins looking back by looking forward. We hear Jesus speaking about the End and how we should approach it. Keep in mind two things about the End. Jesus himself says that no one can know the time; we shouldn't spend out time in needless speculation. But the other thing he tells us is always to keep watch! Do you see the signs of the Kingdom?
Our main scripture is Mark 13.28-37 where Jesus speaks these words. There ar several other readings from Scripture that help to interpret the various actions of decorating: the greenery, the tree, paraments, the poinsettia, the nativity scene, the Advent Wreath and candles.
Watch and listen for the traditional titles for Jesus from the Old Testament in our worship. There are seven of these.
Prayer of the Day:
Almighty God our Father, in Jesus Christ, the Root of Jesse, you have restored us and brought your Kingdom near to us. Grant us by the power of the Holy Spirit to be on watch for the signs of your Kingdom, and to live the Kingdom sings of love and grace; to your eternal glory, Almighty God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Our prayer concerns and joys include: those served and serving at the 9th annual Rick Flanagan Thanksgiving Day Meal. We served about 375. We remember the church in Sierra Leone and Liberia. Our ministry focus is the Worship Ministry Area. Our mission focus is the UM Student Day. We also want to remember all the upcoming Advent activities.
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