Reason number 1-4: The Sundays of Advent
Worship begins at 11:00 each Sunday December 1, 8, 15 and 22, as we move through the season of Advent. Advent is marked by themes of preparation and expectation. We prepare not only for the celebration of Christmas, but also more profoundly we focus on our preparation and expectation for Christ’s triumphant return to bring in God’s Kingdom. The lighting of the Advent wreath in each week’s worship service helps us mark our movement through the season.
Reason number 5: The annual Christmas Pageant, Sunday December 8
Our worship service this Sunday is built around our Sunday School children’s presentation of their annual Christmas pageant. It is a wonderful opportunity to receive their witness to God’s love shown in the birth of Christ, and to support their growth in the faith. Rehearsals are on Saturdays November 30 and December 7.
After worship we invite the congregation to help decorate the Sanctuary for Christmas including the large Christmas Tree as well as the small tree which will stand in Hanson Hall. Some of the children will join us after their Sunday School party but adults are encouraged to grab some refreshment at the Fellowship hour in Hanson Hall and come back to the Sanctuary to help prepare the space for Christmas. This is a big job and we can really use your help. Plan to be with us on December 8 for all of these great events.
Reason number 6: The ALC & Friends Christmas Concert, Sunday December 15
Everyone is invited to a fun evening of Christmas music on Sunday, December 15 at 17:00. We are inviting the neighbors as well, and anyone who would enjoy a nice evening of singing Christmas favorites and we are pleased to announce that some of the children from FIP will be joining us as well. It will be an evening with opportunities to sing and listen to both sacred music and some famous popular Christmas music. If you think you might like to offer some music as well, please speak with our Musical Leader, Brad Staubes. You can find him in the choir loft every Sunday.You can also email him at bradstaubes@gmail.com.
Reason number 7: Christmas Eve Service and Pot-luck, December 24
Join us for our Christmas Evening Worship Service on 24 December beginning at 16:00 (and sure to end by 17:00). For many this service is a highlight of the year, when we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord. We will hear the story of God’s love come as a babe born in a manger as told through word and song. For those who may not have family here in Oslo to celebrate with or anyone looking for a place to share a meal and some wonderful Christmas cheer Christmas Eve, we invite you to join us in Hanson Hall after worship for our annual Christmas Eve Potluck Dinner. If you will be joining us, watch for a sign up sheet in the entryway bulletin boards or email us in the church office and be sure to tell us how many will be coming to the Potluck. We also ask that everyone please bring some food to share – enough for yourself and a bit extra for others. Together, we will make an evening of fun, food and Christmas fellowship.
Reason number 8: Christmas Day Service, December 25
We gather at 11:00 on 25 December, Christmas Day for a special worship service with Holy Communion. In the midst of the many traditions (and demands) of Christmas, this is a sure way to be certain that Christ is remembered at the center of our celebrations. We normally are done by noon on Christmas Day in time to get you home for Christmas Day dinner.
See you at the ALC in December!