Jesus was born into a weary world. King Herod ruled the land with a legacy of ruthlessness. The Romans treated the people of Israel with contempt, imposing harsh taxes and land seizures that forced many into subsistence farming. Poverty and destitution were pervasive. And yet, Jesus was born, bringing good news of great joy for all people.

As Advent comes again to a weary world, we ask, “How does a weary world rejoice?” Join us Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. beginning November 26 as we seek to create space for acknowledging the weariness of our world while celebrating God’s closeness with great joy. We will seek a “thrill of hope” in our hurting world. We will welcome joy—even if, like the prophet Isaiah, we cry out for comfort (Isaiah 40:1).

On Thursday, December 21, we will mark the Longest Night of the year in a service that acknowledges the shadows in our world and our lives, as we anticipate the turn towards more light.

And on Sunday, December 24, we will gather for festive Christmas Eve worship services! At 10:00 a.m., our Angels & Shepherds service will invite all who are young and young at heart into the Christmas story. At 4:30 and 8:00 p.m., identical Lessons & Carols services, will include many voices reading scripture and exquisite music.

In this weary world, may we find many ways to rejoice.