Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
- Mary in Luke 1:48b-50
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
- Mary in Luke 1:48b-50
Despite the challenges and vulnerability she faced, Mary could glimpse the scale and scope of the good news she was part of bringing forth. This good news transcends time and space—it was and is bigger than just her. Christ is coming for collective liberation: God’s redemption is at work for years to come. Therefore, the promise is meant to be lived out and passed on from generation to generation.
We are invited to look at the characters in our scriptures and wonder: What did each character pass on or contribute? How did each character participate in God’s liberation and love? Which characters try to thwart God’s justice and what can we learn from them? What is our role now? What is our generation’s task? What will we carry forth, and what should we leave behind?
The root word of “generation” is “gen” meaning “origin” or “birth.” Our theme is also a call to action: what are we being called to generate or bring forth? What have your ancestors and those who have come before you passed on for you to continue? Who are the spiritual elders in your community who planted the seeds for the things that are now blooming? What seeds are you planting for the future?
From Generation to Generation… reminds us of the ways our lives, histories, actions, and stories are interconnected and woven together. In the midst of narratives, policies, and rhetoric designed to divide us, what does it look like to practice belonging to one another? The work of God is always unfolding— in and through us. This Advent season, how will we carry it forth?
We are invited to look at the characters in our scriptures and wonder: What did each character pass on or contribute? How did each character participate in God’s liberation and love? Which characters try to thwart God’s justice and what can we learn from them? What is our role now? What is our generation’s task? What will we carry forth, and what should we leave behind?
The root word of “generation” is “gen” meaning “origin” or “birth.” Our theme is also a call to action: what are we being called to generate or bring forth? What have your ancestors and those who have come before you passed on for you to continue? Who are the spiritual elders in your community who planted the seeds for the things that are now blooming? What seeds are you planting for the future?
From Generation to Generation… reminds us of the ways our lives, histories, actions, and stories are interconnected and woven together. In the midst of narratives, policies, and rhetoric designed to divide us, what does it look like to practice belonging to one another? The work of God is always unfolding— in and through us. This Advent season, how will we carry it forth?
Advent to Epiphany Worship Calendar
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27 - ADVENT I
10 AM - Hybrid Worship Service 11 AM - Advent Craft Workshop SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 - ADVENT II 8:30 AM - In-Person Worship 10 AM - Hybrid Worship Service SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 - ADVENT III 10 AM - Hybrid Worship Service SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18 - ADVENT IV 10 AM - Children's Pageant during Hybrid Worship 11:30 AM - Playground Dedication |
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 - LONGEST NIGHT
7 PM - Hybrid Service of Remembrance SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE 4 PM - Children and Families' Service 8 PM - Traditional Candlelight Service (Hybrid) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 - CHRISTMAS DAY 4 PM - Lessons & Carols Evening Service SUNDAY, JANUARY 1 - EPIPHANY 4 PM - Evening Service 5 PM - Potluck Agape Meal |
We are proud to be using the beautiful artwork, hymns, and poetry of "From Generation to Generation" by Sanctified Art, LLC, during this worship season.
Special Events and Opportunities this Advent through Epiphany
We will have a special Bell Choir and Ensemble Choir during the Advent season, singing on a couple of Sundays and Christmas Eve. Please email julie@uccaustin.org if you are interested in being a part of either or both Advent Choirs.
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Following worship on Nov. 20, we will have an Advent Decorating Day and all ages and areas of expertise are warmly invited to participate. The group will share lunch at 11 and then begin the Advent transformation. We need volunteers to bring lunch items, help decorate, or both!
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Beginning Nov. 22, the Spirit of Love Conversations Book Group will read and discuss Christmas in the Four Gospel Homes: An Advent Study, by Cynthia M. Campbell.
As always, all are welcome to participate in the Zoom discussion at 1:00pm on Tuesdays. |
Beginning Nov. 20, our youth group will sell poinsettias and gift cards. The poinsettias will decorate our Sanctuary and then be shared with homebound members. Gift cards will be available to pick up before Christmas. A portion of all of the sales benefit the youth group.
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Sunday worship during Advent will feature the original hymns, poetry, and artwork of the "From Generation to Generation" Sanctified Art series. Our sermons will follow the themes as we remember and celebrate the incredible Christmas story that has been passed down from generation to generation.
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All are invited to make Advent creations at our Advent Craft Workshop following the 10am worship service on Nov. 27. We will have supplies out in the Fellowship Hall for making unique Advent wreaths, calendars, and more. No RSVP is necessary.
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This Advent, we will have the opportunity to write loving Christmas cards to LGBTQIA+ people who are without support from a parent or family this holiday season. To write cards, stop by the table in the Fellowship Hall beginning on Nov. 27.
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Our early service on the first Sunday of the month in December will be a special Advent edition of this time together. All are welcome at 8:30am on December 4. The service takes place outdoors when the weather allows, indoors when needed.
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Following the 10am worship service on Dec. 11, all are invited to head just down the block from the church to Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse for a casual lunch and time for visiting. The restaurant has a playscape and lots of indoor & outdoor seating.
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The UCC Christmas pageant is a beloved tradition held during our 10am worship service. This year's pageant will be Sunday, Dec. 18. There are speaking and non-speaking roles for children of all ages. Email emily@uccaustin.org if you have any questions.
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We are delighted and honored to dedicate our new beautiful playground following the 10am worship service on Sun. Dec. 18. So many hands played a part in this incredible church project. Come celebrate with cookies, cocoa, and a christening of sorts!
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For those experiencing loss or grief or sorrow, the holiday season can be especially difficult. We will hold a Service for the Longest Night on Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 7pm, officiated by Rev. Jenny Veninga. All are welcome at this lovely service of remembrance.
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On Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, we will offer two beautiful services as we herald the birth of Jesus Christ. Our 4pm service features a longer Time for Children and the 8pm service will be available for watching online.
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Join us in worship on Christmas Day as we recount and rejoice! We will have an afternoon service at 4pm...although staying in your Christmas PJs when you come is certainly okay! Our service will be a beautiful time of Christmas lessons & Christmas carols.
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On Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 1, we will gather for an afternoon service to seek lessons learned in the last year and thoughts for the new year through a journal of prayer, meditation, and reflection. After the service, we'll share a churchwide potluck.
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