No Shushing Allowed Advent

Advent services this year are for the entire family

We've changed everything this year. And I mean everything! 

After a short service with Christmas songs, the lighting of the candle, and a short devotional, there will be interactive stations in the Commons. One of them is the Hot Cocoa station! Don't miss this Sunday's at 4:30pm. Photo by Judith Doyle on Flickr

We are not offering childcare. We want the kids in with us, including the extra movement and noise. No shushing allowed. 

Next, we will move into the commons area where there will be 4 interactive stations. One of them is the Hot Cocoa station!

Here's Aimee's explanation for her inspiration to change things up:

After deciding not offer Advent services this year, I kept thinking about being a kid in church and looking forward to the lighting of the Advent wreath each year. I remember watching the candles and anticipating that last one being lit on the 4th week.

I knew there was meaning in those candles from a young age. Though the candles and the wreath could be seen as just tradition, they can also be a great tool for deeper conversations.

Things are crazy busy, especially around Christmas, and this is a great way to be purposeful about preparing our hearts and anticipating the coming King no matter what age you are! 

Then all of these ideas just came flooding in. It was crazy!

I, for one, can't wait. I really need the focus Advent services provide. With them, I find that I don't "miss" Christmas like I use to. 

This is super family friendly and seeker friendly. Is there a family you can invite from work or your neighborhood? 

This is Us

We are the church, whether we are gathered or scattered--each one of us, a part of the body of Christ, wherever we go, whatever we do.

So, where can you find us, and what are we doing? 

Last Tuesday, several of our students and some parents helped distribute the Union Gospel Mission Thanksgiving meals. Justin Talk (Student Ministries Pastor) commented, "These students didn't just hand things out. It was great seeing how they engaged the families in conversation. And I think they were surprised that the students wouldn't let them carry their own food but helped carry it out for them."

You've seen Legend Rutledge on the worship team where she has served since she was 13, but you might also find her singing at the new Seventh Street Truck Park in St. Paul (above) or leading a night of worship around the fire in her backyard. This week she goes back to Haiti for the third time to minister to the kids at the GVCM orphanage, one of her biggest passions. 

Twenty-six Five Oakers helped get the church building ready for Christmas on Sunday afternoon. I hear that the music, smells of food, fun, and fellowship made it a great time together, and we'll all reap the benefits.