Dear Friends,
Advent is here. Christmas is coming! Trim the tree, buy the presents, make the plans—are we staying in this year? There are many ways to take Advent: The shopping, the planning, the cooking, the time thinking of Christmas Past, Christmas Future…
Advent in the UU tradition is diverse: Our Christian sources have us preparing for the annual birth of Jesus. Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means arrival. St. Jerome, who translated the bible into Latin, used adventus, as the translation of the Greek word parousia (πάρειμι), which is usually translated as arrival or re-arrival.
We are preparing for the arrival of Christmas. We are preparing for each other, the gifts, presents, and the presence we can offer one another.
As we prepare for the longest night—this holy darkness—let us also share the light within us with the community. Let us share the blessings and bounty we have.
Our Earth-based sources ask us to look at our planet, to look at the daylight and notice what is happening. The solstice marks a time when the nighttime is abundant. This affects us, as creatures that are part of our ecosystems. Some of us notice this in our dispositions and our mental health. The need for connection continues!
Chalica begins soon—look for Facebook posts. We have Christmas Eve Service with a candlelight service.
I pray your Advent season is safe and maintains your health in all its aspects: Physical, Mental, Social, and Spiritual. Merry Christmas Everyone! Happy Holidays!
Peace,
— Rev. Will