Advent & Christmas 2012 @ CAPC Oakland
Advent is the season before Christmas, defined as the 4 Sundays preceding Christmas. They serve to remind us of what it’s all about. In a society and culture in which Christmas has been subverted by consumerism, capitalism and an emphasis on shopping and sales – ADVENT is a reminder that the reason for the season, or the heart of Christmas is more than just what we by and give – it’s about what we receive from God – a generosity that changes the world and makes all things new.
Here’s how we’re celebrating Advent and Christmas in our community here at CAPC Oakland:
Sunday – December 2st – THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
10:30am – worship with the lighting of the Advent Wreath, welcoming new members into our community and a congregational meeting
5:00pm – PRACTICE – an Advent Family Craft Night – come and make alternative Christmas gifts as a family to get in the spirit and re-discover what Christmas is all about. Enjoy some hot cocoa and meet new folks.
Sunday – December 9th – THE SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT.
10:30am – worship with the lighting of the Advent Wreath, and a radical active reflection on HOPE!
5:00pm – PRACTICE – an Advent Family Craft Night – come and make alternative Christmas gifts as a family to get in the spirit and re-discover what Christmas is all about. Enjoy some hot cocoa and meet new folks.
Sunday – December 16th – THE THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT.
10:30am – worship with the lighting of the Advent Wreath, and a radical active reflection on JOY!
5:00pm – PRACTICE – a night of Caroling and fun. Join us for an evening of good old fashioned Christmas Caroling as we seek to spread joy and hope to the Rockridge neighborhood around the church. Dress warm and warm up your voice!
Sunday – December 23rd – THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
10:30am – worship with the lighting of the Advent Wreath, and our congregational celebration of Christmas. Wear RED as we also collect our annual offering to help change the life of Dalit children in India.
5:00pm – PRACTICE :: WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION. Although it’s not “technically” solstice this day, come celebrate the return of the light as we have the longest night or day with the most darkness. It’s a timely way to actively reflect and meditate upon the promise that the Christ Child is the light in the darkness. Chants. Readings. Walk & pray the labyrinth of light.
CHRISTMAS EVE – DECEMBER 24th
2:00pm – Family service designed with and for children and families. Lasting for no more than 40 minutes – this is a time to celebrate discover or remember the story of Christmas – and do it all before Santa and the rest of the family comes for dinner!
6:00pm – Our Traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with readings, special music, a concise reflection and lots of candles!
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