The rector writes: “Our fears for our dear ones and our world — in the midst of violence, war and ecological destruction — run deep. More than ever, we need to hear the angels say ‘don’t be afraid,’ and join their song of glory to God and peace on earth. More than ever, we need to open our hearts to the good news that God has come to be with us in the flesh, come what may.” Please join us for worship this Christmas Eve or Christmas Day — in person or online — and discover again the peace and joy of Christ’s incarnation among us.

This week, the rector reflects on this Sunday’s first reading, from Isaiah, and the empty piety of Ahaz, king of Judah. Also: after the 11 am service, stay to help decorate the church for Christmas and the hanging of the greens!

This week, which begins with the “Gaudete” (Rejoice) Sunday of Advent, the rector reflects on prioritizing joy in our lives both at good news and in the midst of disappointments and injustices. “Joy is both gift and discipline,” she writes. Also this week: news of our (soon-to-be) bishop coadjutor, Matthew Heyd; and the Sunday Forum following the 11 am service: “Traditional Icons & the Mystery of the Incarnation,” with art historian Dr. Dennis Raverty, PhD.

The rector writes: “If the first week of Advent is about awakening to watch in the dark, the week to come is about preparing the way. The voices of Isaiah and John the Baptist call us to action — to clear a path through the wilderness, to repent of ways that no longer serve (and maybe never did), to a change of heart and life.” Also: check out our Ascension advent calendar of photos inspired each day by a Bible verse posted to our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.

This week, the rector finds resonance in the season of Advent, especially against the dark and terror-filled backdrop of yet more gun violence, this time in Chesapeake, Virginia, and Colorado Springs: “Advent is full of paradoxes — crisis and possibility, hope and profound challenge, watching and preparation, yearning and mystery. We see with deepening clarity the brokenness of the world; we wait with longing for the coming of the holy one.” Following the 11 am service, we’ll be making an Advent wreaths (greens, wreath forms, and candles will be provided). And next Saturday, our diocese will elect a new bishop coadjutor, who will eventually become our new diocesan bishop. Sleepers, awake!