December 21, 2025 – Fourth Sunday of Advent – “Sacred Knowing”
Overview
On December 21, 2025, we gathered for the Fourth Sunday of Advent to light the candle of Peace and step away from the distractions of the holiday season.
Pastor Katie Estes shared a message titled “Sacred Knowing,” drawing from Matthew 1:18-25 to explore how Joseph navigated his fears to embrace God’s plan.
The service was enriched by special music, including the “Advent Carol” introit and a moving anthem, “Light the Advent Candle,” featuring flutist Teresa Schoffelman.
Together, we offered prayers, shared the peace of Christ, and prepared our hearts for the coming of Emmanuel through cherished hymns like “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and “Jesus, the Light of the World.”
December 14, 2025 – Third Sunday of Advent – “Sacred Space”
Overview
We gathered to celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent with a service dedicated to the theme of Joy. The worship opened with the hymn “Christ, Be Our Light” and a responsive Call to Worship that invited attendees to rejoice and see the glory of God.
Following a unison Prayer of Confession and the Words of Assurance, the community shared the Peace of Christ and Joel Morien led a Time with the Children. The Service of the Word featured scripture readings from Luke 1:47-55 and Isaiah 35:1-10, special music arranged by Curt Oliver, and a sermon delivered by Pastor Katie Estes titled “Sacred Space”.
The service concluded with the Prayers of the People, an offering dedicated to extending Jesus’ healing ministry, and the closing hymn “Prepare the Way, O Zion,” sending the congregation out with a charge to “leap and sing for joy”.
December 7, 2025 – Second Sunday of Advent – “Sacred Time”
Overview
The congregation celebrated the Second Sunday of Advent with a central theme of Love. Pastor Katie Estes led the worship and delivered a sermon entitled “Sacred People”.
The gathering included meaningful liturgical acts, such as the lighting of the Advent candle and a unison Prayer of Confession that asked for forgiveness for being too rushed or preoccupied to notice the sacred in daily life.
The service also featured a Time with Children led by Joel Morien and culminated in the celebration of Communion, where the community gathered at the Lord’s Table. Music and scripture were woven throughout the morning.
The service opened with the candle-lighting hymn “Christ, Be Our Light” and “People, Look East,” while the choir presented the anthem “Come to the Light” by Joseph M. Martin. Accompanied by pianist Kris Melton and organist Michael Raught, the congregation also sang “I Come With Joy” and concluded with “O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright”. These musical distinctives were paired with scripture readings from Matthew 3:1-12 and Romans 15:4-13.
