Advent & Christmas 2025
Luke’s Gospel begins the story of Jesus “in the time of Herod”—a fearful world marked by oppression, uncertainty, and injustice. Into that world, angels appear again and again with a startling message: Do not fear. This Advent, we’ll listen for that same message in our own time, learning from Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi—each of whom met fear not by denying it, but by moving through it with courage and faith.
This season invites honest reflection on the fears that shape our lives and communities—fears of change, loss, violence, and isolation—and on the divine hope that refuses to let fear have the final word. Together, we’ll ask: What if acknowledging our fears helps us see more clearly how God is breaking in? What if fear could become fuel for love and action?
Through worship, prayer, art, study, and song, we’ll discover again that the good news of Christ’s birth is louder than fear. The light we share is not fragile—it grows brighter when shared in community. In a world that still trembles, we dare to insist on hope, trusting that God’s love continues to break through the dark with peace, courage, and joy.
Worship Opportunities
Advent Wednesdays
December 3, 10, & 17
VESPERS
6:30 PM
Pause midweek for a quiet, contemplative service in the sanctuary featuring Bless This Night from Holden Village.
STUDY
7:15 PM
Join Pastor Hector and Mark Vandermeer in the chapel following vespers for a time of reflection on scripture, poetry, and art, guided by the What Do You Fear devotional booklet.
SING
7:15 PM
Singers of all abilities are invited to join the Advent Choir—no prior experience needed! The choir will share music at the 7 PM Christmas Eve service.
Study & Devotion
ADVENT DEVOTIONAL BOOKLET
This year’s Advent devotional takes seriously the angels’ message and trusts that Christ’s birth is truly good news of great joy for all people. The weekly art, poetry, and reflections look closely at the fear and uncertainty of the time of King Herod and invite us to consider the fears we hold today. Fear can divide and paralyze us, even be used as a tool for oppression. But what if we formed a different relationship with fear—acknowledging it without letting it rule us? What if naming our fears helps us see more clearly how God is breaking in and where God is at work?
Printed copies are available at Trinity, or email Josh@tlcs.church to receive a digital version.
As you journey through this devotional—either on your own or by joining others on Wednesday evenings—may your hope become gritty and resilient. Remember: hope that trembles is still hope.
ADVENT BOOK STUDY
Join David Horton to rediscover the story of Christ’s birth through the lens of The First Advent in Palestine by Kelley Nikondeha. Moving beyond familiar imagery, this study invites us to see how God’s incarnation took place amid political turmoil, poverty, and courage—a story of divine solidarity in the midst of human struggle. Explore the Gospel accounts of Mary, Joseph, and Zechariah, and consider how their faith and resilience speak into our own world today.
Schedule
-
November 30 - Beginnings & Chapter 1
-
December 7 - Ch. 2 & 3
-
December 14 - Ch. 4 & 5
-
December 21 - Ch. 6 & 7
-
December 29 - Ch. 8 & 9
-
January 4 - Ch. 10 and final thoughts
A limited number of books are available at the front desk for a suggested $10 donation, or may be purchased wherever you buy books.
ADVENT CALENDARS
Two unique Advent calendars invite reflection and creativity throughout the season. The Children’s Lantern Calendar can be colored day by day, then assembled into a glowing paper lantern—a reminder that light grows brighter when shared. While designed with children in mind, anyone may enjoy this hands-on way of marking Advent’s unfolding story.
The Daily Breath Prayer Calendar offers a simple word or phrase and a brief prayer for each day, December 1–25—an accessible rhythm of stillness and hope for individuals and families alike.
Both are available in the narthex.
Concerts & Events
