What is Advent?

We know that we, as Episcopalians, recognize Advent as the beginning of the Church year and we also know that it is a time to Prepare.  For what are we preparing?  Very simply, we are "remembering" the preparation for the arrival of Jesus' birth AND we are also preparing for the return of Jesus.  Hmmm.  Really?  And what does that mean?  Much has been written about Advent and what it means...you can "Google" it!  Following is one link that I think you will find interesting in explaining Advent.  http://www.cresourcei.org/cyadvent.html

I never knew what Advent was until we moved to Jamestown!  I grew up in a Congregational church - learned a LOT about the Bible and being a Christian, but nothing about the Church Year.  I have been an Episcopalian since I was in 8^th Grade - but I have no memory of Advent.  St. Luke's awakened that season for me - and over the years it's become a time for me to joyfully sit back and take in where I am with my faith journey and my life.  (Not as penitential as in Lent...)  Time - a very rare commodity these days.  Blame should not be laid at anyone's feet for not having enough of it, but we all need to consider why we need to have "Sabbath" - have sacred time that is set apart.  This Advent Season, there will be a couple of offerings for you to take that time. 

The Adult Forum will be using the four Sundays in Advent for discussion and activities using a program put together by the Rev. Marianne Ell based on a book written by The Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton - Let Every Heart Prepare:  Meditations for Advent and Christmas.  Each week, we will have a different parishioner facilitating the discussion and offering time to reflect and to be.  The second offering is an Advent Quiet Day Retreat entitled "Towards a Closer Relationship with God" will be on Saturday morning, December 7 beginning at 9:30 am.  Janicemarie McDonald will lead us using the Celtic tradition.  Watch the Voice and signs around the church for information about this retreat.

I/we strongly urge you all to truly take time for nurture this coming Advent season.  Listen to the readings.  Absorb the lyrics of the hymns.  Take the time to breathe in and feel God's spirit at work in you...oh - and Happy New Year!

-          Barbara Bumsted