“From Darkness to Light”: Send your personal stories to Father Tim
In the Episcopal Church, Advent, the four-week season leading up to Christmas, combines a time of waiting, preparation, and anticipation. Unlike the secular focus on holiday cheer, Advent emphasizes contemplative reflection and spiritual growth.
Over centuries, the season has maintained several traditions:
- The Advent wreath: With four candles, one lit each week, symbolizing the anticipation for Christ’s coming.
- Weekly themes: Each week has a unique theme – Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love – reflected in scripture readings, sermons, and hymns.
- Purple and blue colors: Symbolic of penitence and preparation during Advent.
- Special services: Evening prayer services known as “Lessons and Carols” feature Scripture readings, choral music, and contemplation.
- Acts of service and charity: Encouraged to focus on the needs of others, reflecting Christ’s love for the world.
Beyond these external practices, Advent encourages internal transformation. Prayer, reflection, and acts of service help individuals prepare their hearts and lives for the arrival of Christ. It’s a time to shed darkness, embrace hope, and cultivate the qualities Christ embodied – ultimately welcoming Him not just at Christmas, but in every aspect of daily life.
Our usual in-church ceremonies are symbolized by purple/violet colors and more muted or contemplative worship. The church season of Advent provides a time of somber preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord (aka “Christmas” from “Christ’s Mass”).
This year, I invite you to share your own life stories of traveling the spiritual path “from darkness to light.”
Your story may arise from our recent pandemic– or from other life experiences.
As some stories may contain highly personal & sensitive information, we will maintain your confidentiality as follows:
- Parishoners should email their stories ONLY to [email protected]
- Or you may give me a “hardcopy” in a sealed envelope.
- No one else will see or read your original version.
- I will remove personal identifying information – and may modify details to protect your privacy.
- I may share edited excerpts in print or audio form with the parish (during worship or online).
- I will provide you a copy of the shared content (if requested with your original submission.
Feel free to contact me with any question or suggestion.
Thank you & bless you!
Father Tim