ADVENT
All Are Welcome
We are an Open and Affirming Congregation
Winter Solstice / Advent Spiral Tradition
December 8 - New Year
Winter Solstice/Advent Spiral Tradition. During the dark winter months, the ancient symbol of the spiral reflects the human experience to look forward with hope and to welcome the light of the sun beyond the solstice. There are countless ways to enjoy and interpret the spiral: whether you celebrate the solstice, embark on a meditative journey, count the weeks to Christmas or feel the presence of Christ and his light, it is a personal and creative choice! Join us in this unique opportunity to express your inner divine through the beautiful spiral form. The spiral will be up from December 8th through the New Year and can be enjoyed individually or with your family, it is free and open to all 24/7 in the upper back parking lot behind the church. Also, as part of a special winter solstice celebration of our traditional Longest Night service on December 22 at 6pm, we will have a Spiral Walk available immediately following the service.
Christmas Pageant
December 15, 2024
10am
Celebrate with our children as they retell the story of Jesus’ birth during our Sunday morning worship. Join live in the sanctuary or on Facebook.
Christmas Caroling with the Carillon
December 14, 2024
3:30pm
NMCC installed and dedicated a new carillon this summer. Those who are around on the hour have reveled in hearing the bells ring out again. We invite you to join us for a festive fire pit (weather permitting), refreshments, and carols to the music of the bells. After about 30 minutes of singing, we will visit local shut-ins or senior living facilities and provide some seasonal joy. If you cannot stay for the visits, please still come for the bells! This is a free community event, but we welcome donations of wrapped socks, hats, scarves or gloves to support our mission at Columbus House in New Haven. Please mark packages and Men, Women, Unisex, or Child and size as appropriate.
Longest Night / Blue Christmas
December 22, 2024
6pm
On this solstice night, we hold space for sadness, grief or loneliness in this holiday season. Join live in the sanctuary or on Facebook. Following worship, wander outside to walk the candlelit Winter Spiral under the stars on the church grounds in the upper parking lot. ​
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship
December 24, 2024
4pm
The story of the Christ child’s birth for all ages through scripture, congregational carols, children's story and Silent Night by candlelight. Join live in the sanctuary or on Facebook.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Lessons and Carols Worship
December 24, 2024
10pm
The story of the Christ child’s birth through scripture, choir, and congregational singing. Silent Night by candlelight. Join live in the sanctuary or on Facebook.