The following reflections were submitted by parishioners as part of their spiritual practices for Advent.  We will publish one reflection a day for the rest of January.

Advent Morning Offering

The exit boasts no superior coffee, only
A humble Waffle House, to be gained by a
Dauntingly rutted access road: a pitted lot
and cheap cheer in red and silver tinsel.

Come in, Love
And sit wherever you want, whatlitbe?
A smile sweet and free.

The following reflections were submitted by parishioners as part of their spiritual practices for Advent.  We will publish one reflection a day for the rest of January.

In times of despair, when the world seems to be destroying itself
I am always reminded that
Our universe is filled with more light than darkness

The following reflections were submitted by parishioners as part of their spiritual practices for Advent.  We will publish one reflection a day for the rest of January.

When others grieve deeply, I am reminded that I can open myself to take a part of their grief. In doing so, it lessens their burden. When I take in another's sorrow I close my eyes, open my heart and transform the sorrow and grief into love, which helps heal their broken heart. This is not done by me, but by the transformational love of God who makes it happen. 

-Submitted by anonymous

The following reflections were submitted by parishioners as part of their spiritual practices for Advent.  We will publish one reflection a day for the rest of January.

I was late getting to EP Sawyer to walk Luca because I was getting Abel off to school. Really because intentions from Universe had me meeting a friend I hadn't seen in a while.  And there he came running towards me. I was the last person left for him to say goodbye to as he was leaving in the AM for his move to New Zealand! His family was already there and 2 dogs. He and his wife are professors, now teaching at a university there! I was so glad to be able to hug him farewell and bless their new adventure!  

-Submitted by Nancy S

The following reflections were submitted by parishioners as part of their spiritual practices for Advent.  We will publish one reflection a day for the rest of January.

It was Christmas morning and the phone rang. A friend wanted to stop by and visit the woman who was recovering from a recent surgery.  The friend came bearing cookies and stayed for a cup of tea and wonderful conversation. Little did she know how much she made Christmas for that family that day. 

The shepherds came unannounced to the stable behind the inn,  as well as the sages who came from the East in the impressive caravan.  An old man and an old woman stopped them in the temple, very unexpectedly. In all of these encounters the beauty of Christmas was experienced by the family that was wondering “why all these visitors?”

-Submitted by anonymous