Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany
Advent, the beginning of the church year, starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. It is a time of preparation, anticipation, and hope. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the "Light of the World." Epiphany on January 6, also called "Three Kings Day," is the climax of the Christmas season for Protestants.
God With Us: A Christmas Message
Like the shepherds, we are called to the manger where the unlimited love of God enfolds and nurtures us; then, at the manger we are given our mission: To share all we have learned in faith concerning the child of Christmas, God with us.
Above, Through, In: Our Deep Connection
by Dan Licardo
12/13/10: Our desire to connect with family and friends reaches a peak during Advent and the holiday season.
The Gifts and Challenges of the Connected Life
by Mary Beth Coudal
12/9/10: While social media increases our need for speed, in this holy season of waiting, we need to slow the digital connection down.
Advent Wreath Lighting Liturgy 2010
by Rev. Debi Tyree
11/02/10: Litany and music ideas for celebrating this season of light and hope. Story and links to PDF resources.
Resources on Other Websites
Get more Advent/Christmas/Epiphany resources from these and other United Methodist and ecumenical websites:
Advent and Christmas Resources from United Methodist Women
Reflections, meditations, and devotionals by Linda Douglas Smith and Glory E. Dharmaraj, Ph.D.
Advent Resources
General Board of Discipleship, The United Methodist Church
Advent Wreath Meditations, Songs, Poems, Meditations.
On-Line Resources for the Season of Advent
The Text This Week
A wealth of links to resources, including sermons, worship planning, art, and articles.
Christ-Centered Advent and Christmas Music
Listen to over twenty-five favorite hymns for Advent and Christmas. The music is in midi format.
Living Nativity is a Witness to Faith
by Elliott Wright
12/18/09: The "cast" of Conley’s United Methodist Church in Delaware share their faith with thousands each Advent.
