Advent is about two things: getting ready for Christmas/Jesus's birth, and remembering that the famous story of this baby, the stable, the angels, and more is actually part of a bigger Story of God's love for the world and everyone in it. 

Many of our Advent celebrations have traditionally centered around worship in the Sanctuary, but this year - as with so many things - we are discovering and creating new ways to share our faith practices from and within our homes.  Here are just a few ways you can celebrate Advent at home with us this season:

1. Make your own Advent Wreath.

   Different from an Advent Calendar, Advent wreaths have weekly activities (instead of daily ones) which align with our worship service candles and themes.  Check out Ms. Rebecca's amazing ideas for simple ones you can make with regular household items!
   
   

2. Participate in our Reverse Advent Calendar.

   From 11/29 through Christmas Eve, place the food item of the day into a sturdy paper grocery bag (bags available in the Family Life Center). When each bag is full, drop it off at the collection station in the FLC and fill up another one.  All items will go to the church Food Pantry (serving over 7000 meals to our community annually...and growing!) 
   
   

3. Give new life to your nativity scene.

   Don't let the nativity scene just be a decoration on your mantel; bring it to life by using the pieces to tell each part of the story. For an extra twist, dress up as Bible characters and act out the story yourselves...maybe even online with other friends and family. (One good opportunity for families to do this will be in our Zoom Family Christmas Eve Service on 12/23!) 

4. Sponsor a child from the Christmas for All Tree.

   Wilson County Christmas for All provides holiday gifts for families in need in our community. To sponsor a family/child, choose a tag from the tree in the Narthex, buy gifts, and bring UNWRAPPED gifts to the Fellowship Hall by 12/9. If you are unable to shop or come on site but would still like to sponsor a child, please contact Pam Vandever.

5. Make your own Chrismon ornaments.

   As featured on the tree in our narthex, Chrismons are ornaments with Christian symbols on them. Here are some patterns to get you started!
   
   

6. Subscribe to and read our daily Advent Devotions. 

   Curated mostly from original contributions by our congregation, these daily meditations help keep the true meaning of the season at the forefront of our minds. This year's theme: Christmas Lights.

7. Share what Advent means to you.

   Set aside some special time (over a meal, on a walk, during a remote gathering or call) to discuss your favorite parts of Advent and why you find them meaningful...in 2020, and all the time!