You’ve probably already heard that song playing between the power tools and paint samples at Lowe’s. It can’t be avoided – Andy Williams and Mariah Carey are warming up their holiday soundtracks, but Yates Baptist Church is preparing for something much farther-reaching. December 1, 2024, marks the beginning of a new season called Advent. It’s the beginning of the Christian year, a time of earnest anticipation. We’re preparing for the arrival of a King.
Advent invites us to slow down and remember. While the world rushes to worry and “make lists and check them twice,” we pause to anticipate something eternal. The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” Early Christians set aside this season to create sacred space before celebrating Christmas.
Advent is the church’s collective commitment to quiet our hearts and reflect on the hope embodied in Christ’s coming. Together, we look back to the child born in Bethlehem and forward to his promised return that will bring ultimate restoration. In a world of constant noise and hurry, Advent reminds us to listen, to hope and to anticipate God’s transforming love.
The prophet Isaiah calls us to “prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” (Isa. 40:3). At Yates, we embrace this invitation with worship each Sunday at 10:30 AM on December 1, 8, 15, and 22.
This year, our reflections will draw on the stories and theology of beloved carols. Songs like “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “What Child Is This,” and “Joy to the World” will guide us to a deeper awareness of what God has done in Jesus Christ. I hope we can sing these carols out of more than nostalgia. These enduring songs are powerful theological poems that invite us to worship with joy and wonder.
On Christmas Eve, join us at 5:00 PM for a candlelight service, a quieter moment where we remember how in Christ, light triumphs over darkness and promise becomes presence. Our celebration continues with a family-style potluck breakfast before worship at 9:30 AM on Sunday, December 29. This gathering offers us a heartfelt way to reflect on the gift of Christ and to look forward to the year ahead.
Isaiah’s call to “prepare the way for the Lord” also invites us to personal reflection and prayer. This year, members of our congregation have prepared daily devotions to encourage spiritual growth. These reflections, available in print or via email, remember the many ways God has worked across history to bring salvation to the world. To receive these devotions by email, contact the church office at info@yateschurch.org. Print copies are available in the Sanctuary vestibule and the church office.
On Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 AM to noon, the Yates Sanctuary will be open for a time of guided prayer. Prayer guides will be available to help you reflect and make space for God to work in your life and in our church. This is a quiet opportunity to renew your spirit and embrace the Advent season with intention.
At Yates, music and fellowship are vivid expressions of our love for God and one another. In coming weeks, we’re celebrating with joyful gatherings and beautiful concerts:
- Youth and Kids Christmas Party: December 8 at 5:00 PM, filled with laughter and our favorite traditions.
- Bell Durham Christmas Concert: December 14 at 7:00 PM, featuring inspiring holiday handbell music.
- “And on Earth, Peace” Handbells, Orchestra, and Choir Concert: December 15 at 6:00 PM, followed by a Christmas Cookie Reception in the Fellowship Hall.
Bring your favorite homemade treats and join us in celebrating the joy of the season together.
Advent is also a time to embody Christ’s love through service. This year, we have a $5,000 combined collection goal for the CBF Global Missions and Lottie Moon Christmas Offerings. Locally, you can share the joy of the season by caroling at Sonshine Group Homes on December 18 at 5:00 PM or The Addison assisted living facility on December 19 at 10:00 AM. On December 21, help care for God’s creation by joining us to clean the American Tobacco Trail.
As we journey through Advent, let’s remember we’re not just marking time or keeping up appearances. We’re joining angels, shepherds, and generations of believers in proclaiming: “To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11).
Come prepare, celebrate, and serve with us.
Grace & Peace,