Advent is a season of ending and beginning. It falls at the end of the calendar year, but in the way the church tells time, Advent marks the beginning of the new year, a time when we prepare for Christ to be born anew in our lives and in the world. This year, during the season of Advent, we will lift up “Words for the Beginning,” words that root us in the resources of our faith, words of encouragement that bring us comfort and call us forward into God’s future.
Advent is a season filled with meaningful worship and music, cherished traditions, and hope-filled events. You are warmly invited to attend and to bring friends and neighbors. Pick up Advent devotionals at the church to accompany you and your family on your journey or access one online here. online.flippingbook.com/view/811735764/
Special Events and Worship Services
Children & Youth Caroling Stroll
Sunday, December 1, 10:30 AM
Kids, keep your coat and mittens on when you arrive at church on Sunday so that you’re ready to bring some Christmas cheer to the Pearl Street Mall. Meet in the Link, walk to the Pearl Street Mall with Anne Martinez, and return to Plymouth for hot apple cider.
Alternative Gift Market
Sundays, December 1 – 22
Alternative Gifts International (AGI) and Mindful Works will offer thoughtful gifts that make a difference in addressing hunger, literacy, shelter, mental health support, job training, and more. Fair Trade chocolate and coffee can also be purchased.
Have Yourself a Mystical Christmas: A Mini-Retreat for Heart and Soul
Saturday, December 7, 9 AM – 3 PM
Chapel, Heritage, and Standish Rooms
The Incarnation of Jesus is at the core of the Christian faith. Yet, the hectic pace of the holidays often clouds the profound spiritual significance of this sacred season. In this one-day retreat, we invite you to slow down and reconnect with the mystical essence of Christmas and the birth of the Divine Word in each of us.
Retreat leaders: Rev. Elizabeth Jameson has been shaped by the Christ tradition, the mystic path and her own living communion with the Divine. She has spent 27 years as an Episcopal priest, spiritual guide and intuitive healer. The Rev. Ian Cummins is a pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA), who after serving a church in Denver for more than 20 years, is now helping others (and himself) learn to trust life, stay present and see with the eyes of the heart.
Cost: $130 per person, including lunch and snacks
To Register: https://link.waveapps.com/sp5x5f-9smesr
Boulder Lights of December Family Potluck and Parade
Saturday, December 7, 4 – 7 PM
Bring something delicious to share for a Potluck Dinner at 4 PM in Plymouth Hall. At 5:00 PM put on a costume and get ready to join Boulder’s Lights of December Parade, beginning at 6 PM. Be an angel, a shepherd, or one of the magi walking with the First Congregational Church’s “We take PRIDE in Christmas” Float. Contact Lianna Campos at lianna@firstcong.net.
Jingle Mingle
Saturday, December 7, 7 PM, Plymouth Hall
As the Lights of December Parade winds down, we open our doors to invite the city to join us for Cookies, Cocoa, Cider and Crafts. Congregational Bells will be ringing! Santa Claus will show up to say hello! Everyone is welcome whether or not you go to the parade. Join us for an evening of Jingle and Mingle.
Words for the Beginning Small Group Series
Sundays, December 8, 15, and 22, 9:15 AM, Standish Room
Join Lianna Campos, Minister of Faith Formation, to consider the Scripture and art in our Advent devotional, reflect on the beginnings and endings experienced now and in Advents past, and to support one another in this holy season.
Sunday, December 15, Still, Still, Still Contemplative Prayer Worship
8:30 AM, Chapel
Gather with others in the Chapel for a service of Advent Scripture and poetry readings, extended moments of silence, quiet carol singing, and gentle prayers.
Sunday, December 15, Music Sunday
10:30 AM in the Sanctuary and on YouTube
Our musical presentation will include Congregational Bells and the Chancel Choir, accompanied by instrumentalists, singing Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio.
Blue Christmas Evening Prayer
Thursday, December 19, 6:00 PM, Chapel
To honor our heart’s truths, whether bright or blustery, gather in gentle community on this evening just before the Winter Solstice, the Longest Night. Scripture, poetry, soft carols, and candlelight surround us as we seek hope and healing.
