An Advent-Palooza (In Spirit)

Dear Friends,

I’m not sure exactly what counts as a “palooza,” but this weekend at Bethesda-by-the-Sea will be something of an Advent-palooza, as we dive deeply into this season of hope and expectation. 

I am so excited to introduce the Rev. Laurie Brock, who will lead both our Saturday morning Advent Retreat and our Sunday Forum. Laurie is gifted author and speaker, an accomplished equestrian, a priest in Lexington, Kentucky, and a very good friend of mine. She has written about the spirituality of horses, and her latest book is Souvenirs of the Holy: Encountering God Through Everyday Objects.

Then, in addition to our Sunday morning services, join us for Advent Lessons & Carols with the Bethesda Choir at 4:00 pm on Sunday afternoon. A festive reception will follow this beloved Bethesda tradition. 

For me, this is always the service where I say to myself, “Now it feels like Advent.” I encourage you to experience the poetic readings that point us towards the hope that is to come, along with music that draws our hearts into a place of holy expectation.

I’m sharing these opportunities for spiritual growth and inspiration not because you need more to add to your December to-do list. But precisely because entering into this season with Jesus Christ at the very center, will serve to declutter your heart. It will allow you to receive the Christ child anew, while keeping all of the other “noise” of the season in perspective.

In the meantime, we stand in the full assurance that, “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together” (Isaiah 40:5).

Peace,

Tim+