From Kathy Underwood, Director of Lifespan Faith Formation

The Spirit of the Season

Yes, it is that time of the year when our homes, streets, shops, and communities are filled with the spirit of the winter holiday season. There is the joy of Christmas lights, Hanukkah candles, and yule logs, the music and foods shared at gatherings, and the joy of giving – not just gifts, but our time and compassion as well.

Here at UCE, we have so many opportunities to get into the spirit of the season, beginning with worship services! We started the month with Melanie DeMore, whose music and stories were inspirational and joyous. This Sunday, we continue our traditions with Music Sunday and Ornament Sunday. Vickie Hellyer, our awesome Music Director, will lead a service filled with music and readings to reflect the faith traditions at this time of year. After the service, we will have our Ornament Sunday festivities: a potluck of light foods to nourish us as we decorate the UCE Christmas tree and stroll amongst the tables where we can make ornaments to bring home.

On the 18th we continue the spirit of the season with another tradition, the Christmas Pageant. In honoring our Christian heritage, we celebrate the Christmas season by retelling the story of Jesus’ birth in this interactive and music-filled worship service. I often hear from parents that they want their children to know the basic stories of the Bible, and this is one of the more well-known stories they will come across. Our young people need to hear these stories, and those of other faiths, to help instill a sense of awe and wonder they give us while also demonstrating a sense of respect for these stories and the faiths they come from around the world. And while there is a bit of humor in the Christmas Pageant, my hope is that our children and youth will come to know it as a story of wonder.

For those who have a role in the pageant, you can pick up your costume before worship beginning at 9:45am. And if you didn’t want to commit ahead of time and would still like to be a part of it, you can choose a costume that hasn’t been claimed or be a shiny star. Of course, you can still sign up here to choose a role, such as an angel, shepherd, star, or even a baby cow.

Next, we welcome Christmas Eve with a beautiful candlelight service at 7pm. What better way to feel that sense of wonder on a dark, winter’s night than with the glow and warmth of candles?

With Christmas Day on a Sunday this year, the worship service will be kid-friendly and low-key. You’re even welcome to come in your pjs! Please note that the nursery will be closed so that our childcare providers can have the holiday off.

And the spirit of the season continues outside of worship services as well. Tonight, we will have our annual Carols, Cocoa, and Community at 6:30pm. We’ll begin in room 3 to wrap gifts for the Mitten Tree, then head to the sanctuary to sing some holiday favorites and enjoy hot cocoa. This is a perfect gathering for all ages, and I hope to see you there!

In Faith,

Kathy