The Season of Advent
Waiting Well for Advent
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Beginning November 30th, we will start our Advent journey "Waiting Well." Waiting isn't the strong suit for most in our fast-paced society—we may understand it at times, but we still don't like it. Yet anticipatory waiting is at the heart of Advent.
Advent is a season of the "now and not yet." We begin by contemplating Christ's promised return before turning toward the story of Mary and Joseph and their waiting for the Christ Child's birth. This Advent, let us heed the call from Matthew 24 to "Keep Awake" as we await both Christ's return and celebrate His birth once again.
Advent, the four-week period leading up to Christmas, is a time of reflection, preparation, and joyful anticipation for Christians around the world. Throughout the church, symbols of this theme are displayed prominently. Advent wreaths adorned with candles, each representing a different aspect of the season – hope, peace, joy, and love – stand as visual reminders of the anticipation that fills the hearts of believers. The church community, united in purpose and faith, eagerly awaits the coming of Christ – a celebration that transcends time and connects believers to the timeless message of hope, love, and redemption.
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During this Advent season, these daily devotions are designed to encourage thoughtful engagement with God’s word. Written from a layperson’s perspective, these reflections are shared with love and hope. It is our wish that, through reading them, you may be inspired to think more deeply about God, pray more earnestly, and strengthen your connections with loved ones. Based on the Common Lectionary of Year C, these devotions continue beyond Christmas into Christmastide and conclude at Epiphany. Each entry is accompanied by a piece of visual art and a musical selection, most of which can be found on YouTube. —Compiled and written by Harold Frye, Ed.D., along with others in the church.
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These Advent daily devotions are sent via email to church members. If you would like to be added to the list, contact Patrick in our church office at office@gcpc.org.
Adult Education Advent Study
November 30 - December 21, 10:45am, Room 3
To be announced.
A Christmas Exclamation!
Sunday, December 7th, 6pm
Get ready to jingle all the way! Join us for a magical evening of Christmas carols and songs on Sunday, December 7, at 6pm, at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church! From adorable 4-year-olds to fabulous adults, you will be serenaded with your favorite holiday tunes. And guess what? You’ll get to join in the fun and sing along too! Plus, enjoy special performances from EncoreKC’s music ensembles! We’ll have fun videos and yummy treats for the kiddos, making this a holiday bash you won’t want to miss!
Pull out your ugly Christmas sweater, Santa hat, or jingle bells. Bring your family and friends and join us for this fun and festive Christmas program! Mark your calendars and come spread the cheer!
The Longest Night Service
Sunday, December 21, 7pm
Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church warmly invites you to our “Longest Night” service on Sunday, December 21, at 7pm. We recognize that the holiday season can be particularly challenging for those experiencing grief, loss, illness, or hardship. While many celebrate, some may feel a deeper sense of loneliness. Join us for music, scripture, silence, and prayers.
This service offers a space to connect with God in comforting ways, honoring loved ones and sharing hope, an opportunity to remember those who have gone before us as we turn toward welcoming the Christ Child. Those we love are never far from us, even though at the holidays it can feel that way. Feel free to bring a photo or remembrance item, and experience God’s love and find solace in community.
Christmas Eve Worship Services
Wednesday, December 24th
Join us for candlelight and carols as we celebrate Jesus’ birth.
Christmas Eve Children and Family Service
5:00pm Worship: This family friendly service will feature our children and youth as they take us to the manger with Joseph and Mary and their newborn son. The youngest worshippers will join in lighting their own glo stick candle with the congregation to sing “Silent Night.” This joyful service will feature music from our Joy! Singers, Celebration! Choir, and others!
Christmas Eve Traditional Service
7:45pm Prelude Music: Prelude music begins provided by Linda Dover, church organist, and Instrumentalists.
8:00pm Worship: This beautiful, traditional service of lessons and carols will celebrate the tenderness and joy of Jesus’ birth. The telling of the story will culminate with the lighting of candles as we sing “Silent Night.” This service will feature music from the Organ, Chancel Choir and GCPC Brass.
