The First Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of our season of anticipation and preparation. Today, we light the first candle of our Advent wreath—the candle of Hope—as we turn our hearts toward both the coming celebration of Christ’s birth and the ultimate fulfillment of God's reign.

Scripture Focus

Mark 13:24-37 (Jesus’ Warning: Keep Awake)

Jesus speaks powerfully to his disciples about the future, using vivid, apocalyptic imagery. His message is not one of fear, but a urgent call to vigilance and preparedness. He reminds us that we do not know the hour of the Master's return, and therefore, we must "Keep awake!" This Advent, Mark’s Gospel grounds our hope in active, watchful waiting, reminding us that God is at work now and is coming again.

Worship Highlights

• Lighting the Candle of Hope: A special moment as we begin our Advent journey and light the first candle on the wreath.

• A Call to Watchfulness: Our liturgy and music will reflect the urgency and hope found in Mark's text, urging us to be mindful and awake in our faith.

• Music: We will share hymns and songs that speak to the themes of looking forward, expectation, and the enduring hope of Christ's light in the darkness.

Join us as we step into this sacred season, embracing the challenge to live with a watchful hope for the One who is to come.