In the Christian calendar the year begins with Advent which means “coming” and refers to the coming of Jesus as anticipated by the prophets and is the four weeks preceding Christmas.  It is a time of preparation and anticipation. The wisdom of Advent is that it gives us the time we need to prepare ourselves and to grow into the joy of Christmas.  It is a time when families can draw closer together in their anticipation and celebration of God’s gift to the world—his Son, the Christ.
 
The Advent Wreath is a symbol of this season.  Its circle recalls the years waiting for the Messiah.  The four candles on the wreath remind us that there are four weeks in Advent.  Each week one additional candle is lit.  The candles remind us that we are preparing for Jesus, the Light of the World.
 
On Sunday, December 31st, our Advent Wreath-Making event will be held in the parish hall after 10 AM service.  Wreath forms and candles will be available at no charge.

Greenery and other wreath-decorating items will also be provided.  Many of you already have wreath forms from previous Advent seasons.  Please bring them with you on December 1st.