Advent & Christmas

This advent season, we were blessed and overjoyed to celebrate the coming of Christ with new visitors, traveling family members, and Sunday regulars. During the weeks leading up to Christmas Eve, we honored Christ by lighting the candles on our advent wreath that symbolize Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Three generations lighting the advent candles

Members gathered to read "An Unlikely Advent: Extraordinary People of the Christmas Story" by Rachel Billups each Tuesday for our Advent Study. Conversations focused on the importance of each character in the story of the Advent Story and the journey to Christmas.

Our advent book, written by Rachel Billups

We hosted our annual Christmas dinner, where all were welcome to enjoy fried chicken, savory sides, and a variety of desserts. Adults participated in a gift exchange, and children got a special visit from someone very jolly....

Santa and Mrs. Claus handing out presents to children

Pastor and attendees sharing laughs during adult gift exchange

Our most awaited event finally happened on December 24. At 10pm, our sanctuary was filled with those who wanted to celebrate the birth of our Savior. After a moving homily from Pastor Donna, attendees sang "Silent Night" while holding candles, each lit in a chain from the Christ candle.

Lit candles during "Silent Night"

After much anticipated waiting, the Advent and Christmas season is now past; the birth of Christ was celebrated in all of our favorite traditions. The decorations have been taken down, Epiphany past, and Ordinary Time begun. The ending of Christmastime leaves many feeling a little deflated, and wondering, "Now what?".

We at Fairview look forward to the work we can do for our Lord, the church, and our community in the new year. Ordinary Time gives us the opportunity to plan events, begin new studies, and prepare for the Lenten season. We will be mindful of how the Spirit is moving in our worlds and where we are called to serve. There is so much to continue to feel overjoyed about - we can't wait to see what 2026 brings.