Advent Spiral

The rhythms of nature tell me to slow down during this time of year. Strangely enough, my culture is telling me to do the opposite- shop till I drop, clean the house, go to another party, fret over Christmas gifts… etc. Yes, advent is a time of preparation, but remember the most precious thing that you must prepare in this season; yourself. In slowing down, and contemplating the wonder of the season you’re priming your heart and your mind for what Christmas is all about.

This year we’re starting a new tradition for the kids, congregation, and community. We’re building an advent spiral in one of the newly remodeled classrooms. Think of the advent spiral kind of like an advent specific labyrinth. The roots of the advent spiral are traced back to Germany in the 4^th century. Today, advent spirals are often associated with the Waldorf teaching method. It’s constructed out of real evergreen garland, candles, and items from the natural world. In the center of the spiral is the nativity.

As we journey in towards the center of the spiral, we are moving in towards Christ. We each light a candle, and then, on the Journey out we bring the light of Christ into the world. I hope that you will take the time to slow-down and contemplate the true meaning of Christmas with the advent spiral. It will be open for congregational/community use Sundays, for an hour before and after the service, and Monday-Thursday 10:00 am through 5:00 pm.

Peace, Love, and Laughter,

Emily