The season of the Christian year we call "Advent" begins on the Sunday nearest November 30 (The Feast of St. Andrew) and continues until midnight on Christmas Eve. Advent is the season of spiritual preparation for Christian disciples anticipating the coming Christmas event - God becoming flesh in the person of Jesus, who is the Christ.

During Advent, we recall the centuries of patient waiting on the part of God's people for the appearance of the Messiah, and the prophecies which foretold that event. We reflect upon what that appearance means for humankind - our forgiveness, redemption, "new life" in Christ, and our ultimate salvation. We recall the angelic proclamations of Christ's coming, as well as the lowly and humble circumstances of Jesus' birth. We consider the role and significance of the ministry of Jesus' kinsman, John (the Baptist). We resolve anew to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the "King of kings". And we acknowledge that Christ will, indeed, come again in glory to consummate God's plan for all creation.

When Christians are asked, "Are you ready for Christmas?" we should remember that more is at stake than the completion of our holiday shopping,  meal planning and preparation, the decoration of our homes (and, in South Carolina, the front grille of our pick-up trucks!) We should make ourselves ready in a spiritual sense for the appearance of the Lord of life again!

Our worship during Advent will be carefully planned to help us do just that.  The hymns, scripture lessons, anthems, service music, the use of the Advent Wreath, and of course, the sermons, are all part of our spiritual preparation for the greatest event the world has ever known - God's intervention, in the person of Jesus Christ, in human history. Won't you resolve now to be present for each and every worship and fellowship opportunity during Advent?

                                                Allen D. Wolfe
                                               Pastor