Advent & Christmas
Advent Season is a time for wonder and watching for the light in the darkness to grow brighter…
Advent is the first season of the church year. It begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas and continues through the day before Christmas. The name is derived from a Latin word for “coming.” This season is a time of preparation and expectation for the coming celebration of our Lord’s nativity, and for the final coming of Christ “in power and glory.”
Welcome to Advent and Christmas at St. Andrew’s On-the-Sound
As we approach the season of Advent, we invite you to slow down, find peace, and open your heart to the presence of God within you. In a world filled with constant motion and demands, St. Andrew’s offers a sanctuary—a place where we can step away from the busyness and reconnect with the true meaning of this season. Join us as we light the candles on the Advent wreath each Sunday during our 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. services, each week growing closer towards the light of Christ’s birth.
Adult Sunday Forums: Dec. 1 & Dec. 8
We will gather for Sunday forums on December 1 and December 8, offering adults an opportunity to explore Advent’s deeper meaning. These gatherings are designed to help us quiet our minds, reflect on the season’s significance, and carry that peace within us into the everyday world.
Gingerbread House Decorating
We’d love to also invite you to join us in some sweet fun! Advent invites us into moments of togetherness. Our annual Gingerbread House Decorating event is a joyful time to bring friends and family, listen to beautiful music, and share in festive cheer over a cup of hot cider. Just as Advent encourages us to simplify, decorating gingerbread houses reminds us to embrace the little joys and connect meaningfully with those around us.
Christmas Eve Services at St. Andrew’s
- 3:00 p.m. – Holy Eucharist with Pageant
Children of all ages are welcome to participate in a delightful “pick-up” pageant. Whether they come dressed from home or choose from costumes available in the Old Parish Hall, they’ll help bring the Christmas story to life. This family-friendly service includes Holy Eucharist with child-friendly responses and joyful music. - 5:00 p.m. – Holy Eucharist
A traditional Christmas Eve service cherished by families, featuring the Liturgy of the Word, a meaningful homily, and Holy Eucharist. This worship experience celebrates the profound mystery of Christmas. - 8:00 p.m. – Candlelight Holy Eucharist
Join us for a reflective service in the beauty of candlelight. This peaceful, traditional liturgy invites us into quiet wonder as we welcome the birth of Christ. This service includes the Liturgy of the Word, a sermon, and Holy Eucharist.
Parish Breakfast & Ornament Making: Dec. 22
On Sunday, December 22, we will gather for a parish breakfast at 8:45 a.m. in the new Parish Hall, where all are invited to share in fellowship. Meanwhile, children can create Christmas ornaments with our Children’s Ministry—a special keepsake for this Christmas.
May this season be one of peace, reflection, and joyful expectation. Join us at St. Andrew’s On-the-Sound as we journey together toward Christmas, making time for what matters most.