Advent and Christmastide
Advent is a season of endings and beginnings. As the calendar year comes to a close, a new church year begins. Christ’s birth ushers us into new ways of living and loving; and yet, the world as we know it spins madly on. In many ways, pregnant Mary was surrounded by endings—large and small, personal and political. But Mary proclaimed hope in a God who was and is making all things new. Christ’s birth offered a beautiful new beginning for shepherds and Magi alike—all the while, King Herod tried to bring Christ’s story to an end. When we ourselves navigate seasons filled with endings and beginnings, we need reminders. We need words that can feel like steady ground, like a path for our feet to find as we step forward into the unknown.
Christmas Eve Services
Wednesday, December 24
4:30 PM – Children’s Service, Main Sanctuary
7:30 PM – Family Candlelight & Carol Service, Sanctuary & Livestreamed
An elegant telling of the Christmas story in carols and readings with music from the Senior Choir and featured music from brass, culminating in the singing of “Silent Night” in our candle-lit sanctuary.
Longest Night Service
Thursday, December 18
7:30 PM – Sanctuary
Although Advent is a joyful season for so many, we also know that this time of year can be drenched in fatigue, grief, and loneliness. We will gather as a community to honor that reality and draw near to God to allow space for healing and prayer.
Bring your grief. Bring your weariness. Bring your fatigue. We hope this time of worship can be a gift to individuals and communities alike, providing a calm, quiet, and healing space. May you find peace in your journey.
Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship
Thursday, December 26
3:00 – 8:00 PM
The beloved Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship returns this holiday season in Downtown Frederick. This special open house celebrates Frederick’s tradition of religious diversity, local history, and the holiday season. Free!
MAIN SANCTUARY & COMMUNITY ROOM, 15 W. Church Street
Enjoy music on the organ and marimba and the Christmas Putz in the Sanctuary. A putz is a nativity scene, or creche, which tells the Christmas story with groups of figurines on a miniature landscape. A narration of the Christmas story accompanies the Putz.
In our Community Room, enjoy hospitality and refreshments.