Christmas @ Restoration: a look at some new traditions

Being a young church that is part of the Anglican tradition, gives us the freedom to begin new traditions within the context of the old; within the context of all that is right and true and good about this season of joy and hope and love.   In the past few years at Restoration we have waited well during Advent by joining in corporate worship, individual daily devotions, ”Advent-y fireside chats,” and caroling with our neighbors at Sunrise Community Center.  This year, we introduce three new traditions.

1.  Keeping watch.  Each week in the Sanctuary, we’ve “hidden” a lamb.  It has been a “Where’s Waldo” kind of way to remind us to wait and watch for the coming Lamb.  I need those physical reminders to connect my brain to what my heart needs, too.  Looking.  Watching.  Waiting.  Seeing.

2.  Joining in.  At the 4 o’clock Christmas Eve service we invite children of all ages to be part of the Christmas story by dressing up as your favorite Nativity character.  This allows for a bit of fun as we all experience the Christmas story anew!  So, dig through your dress up bins and pull out your finest!  Or, just come as you are — dressed in God’s grace and mercy as a loved and forgiven child of God!

3.  Giving gifts.  Also at the Christmas Eve services we get to gather and give gifts to infants and children in our area – in much the same way that the wise men gave gifts to the Baby King.  So, join us by donating an new, unwrapped item from the following list to be given to Doorways for Women and Children:

children’s toothbrushes

children’s toothpaste

children’s t-shirts

children’s pajamas

Avent baby bottles with fast/medium flow nipples

baby oil

baby “no tears” body wash

baby clothes in a variety of sizes

hair brushes and hair ties

shower caps

shower shoes for kids and adults

As we celebrate the never-changing story of God’s gift – Emmanuel – join us in living the story anew this year.  Come, let us adore Him!

-Louise-