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Enjoy lessons and carols—some old and some new—at this casual, family-friendly, band-led worship service. This is a great chance to celebrate the Christmas story with this faith community, even if you are traveling for the holidays.
Even in the midst of the wonder
and expectation of Advent, many
of us feel blue—out of step with
the joy and excitement that are
hallmarks of the season. We
have lost loved ones, faced
disappointments or scary diagnoses,
or just feel disconnected. Grief
and depression do not disappear
during the "happy holidays." Join
us for this special worship service
on the longest night of the year
as we ask God to meet us in our
grief and longing.
This traditional service features
carols, Scripture reading, and
Holy Communion, and is ideal
for those who wish to celebrate
early and for those whose
plans make it impossible to
participate in our later
worship services.
Designed with young families in
mind, adults can experience all
of the traditions of Christmas Eve
worship and introduce children
to those same traditions in this
brief 45-minute service. While
worship will include the Nativity
story, carols, Holy Communion,
and a candlelit “Silent Night,”
the atmosphere in the room
is more casual and there is no
expectation that participating
children will be wiggle free or as
silent as the infant Jesus.
These traditional services
celebrate Christ’s birth with
sacred music, carols, scripture,
Holy Communion, and a candlelit
“Silent Night.” The music of the
Christmas Festival Choir will add
to the joyous atmosphere at the
6:00 and 8:00PM services.
As we prepare for Christmas, First Church is offering our own Advent
calendar as well as a selection of daily devotional materials to help enrich
this season of expectant waiting. With options for different stages of life,
choose the guide that most speaks to you. Materials are available in
the foyer through Sunday, December 7.
You can also sign up to receive a brief daily devotional directly in your inbox during the season of Advent. Starting on Sunday, November 30, and continuing through Christmas Eve, these brief reflections may include music, poetry, and prayer to help you center yourself in this holy season of preparation for Christmas.
There’s the Upside Down… and then there’s the world God is breaking open! Join us as we explore the angel encounters of Joseph, Zechariah, Mary, and the shepherds—moments when another world presses in and reveals news far stranger, and far better, than anything on Netflix. Join us in worship on Sundays, beginning November 30. Or livestream worship or listen to the podcast throughout the week.
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Sunday, December 7
4:00PM
1001 East University Ave
Join FUMC Singles of every age to attend the San Gabriel Chorale's "A Baroque Christmas" at the Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center at Southwestern University. With works by Vivaldi, Handel, and Bach, this choral performance with orchestra is bound to be a delight. Tickets are $25 at the door or online.
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Saturday, December 13
5:00-7:00PM
Location with Registration
The FEAST family, our community group of young adults and young professionals, invites you to our annual Christmas Party. Please bring a gift of no more than $20 for our Favorite Things Gift Exchange. Food, friendship and lots of laughter will be provided. Address will be provided upon registration. Contact Pastor Melissa if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!
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Saturday, December 13
5:30-8:30PM
Location with Registration
If you are looking for community and holiday cheer, you have a place with The Pride, our LBGTQ+ community group. Join us for a fun-filled evening of conversation, carol singing, and great food. While the main dishes will be provided, guests are invited to bring appetizers, sides, or desserts to share. And, if you are so inclined, feel free to BYOB. Location details with RSVP.