For Advent 2024 we are doing something a little different from previous years and our hope is that you will engage these resources deeply and perhaps experience this season in a more meaningful and significant way than ever before!
1. 20 minutes each day leading up to Christmas (This year, Advent begins on Sunday, December 1st)
2. Access to the daily devotional using the option that best suits you (3 options below).
OPTIONAL:
On each Sunday of Advent, we will invite you to light a candle. You are welcome to use a traditional Advent wreath (there are lovely options on Etsy) or make a makeshift one yourself using items from around your house and yard or from the local craft store (see some creative examples below). They usually include 5 candles (3 purple, 1 pink, and 1 white in the center), surrounded by some sort of greenery (pine boughs, holly, or plastic garland works great).
This year the devotionals are available for FREE in 3 formats:
Print copies are available @ the Info Desk on Sundays.
HOW TO USE THIS DEVOTIONAL:
SOLO:
Each day is designed to take around 20 minutes. This includes reading the assigned scripture and a short devotional, reflecting on questions to think or journal about, responding thoughtfully, and praying to close. If you have extra time, there are opportunities to dive deeper into our themes and topics by listening to suggested podcast episodes, participating in some hands-on activities, watching some bonus videos, and re-flecting on the songs from our Advent playlist. Zero pressure to complete everything. Just pick the option that suits whatever day you’re having.
WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS:
Like most things, Advent is better practiced together. Each Sunday’s entry is an opportunity to practice Advent with others. This can be with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, or book club—in person or on zoom. In that day’s entry, you will be prompted to light an Advent candle, read a scripture aloud, reflect on a short devotional, and discuss questions together.
On each Sunday of Advent, we will invite you to light a candle. You are welcome to use a traditional Advent wreath (there are lovely options on Etsy) or make a makeshift one yourself using items from around your house and yard or from the local craft store (see some creative examples below). They usually include 5 candles (3 purple, 1 pink, and 1 white in the center), surrounded by some sort of greenery (pine boughs, holly, or plastic garland works great).
Join us Saturday, December 7th for a special night of pre-christmas fun which includes dinner, bounce houses, games, crafts, prizes and more. It's also a key outreach in our partnership with local schools. If you can help by setting up or volunteering, please email Pastor Dana.
We are partnering with nearby Camelview Elementary School to provide Christmas gifts to children of families in need.
You can pick-up a tag on Sundays on the table at the back of the Worship Center before you shop. If you don't have time to shop you can also designate a donation and we'll do the shopping for you!
Are you broke as a joke? We have other ways you can help bless these families by organinzing, wrapping gifts, delivery and more (email Pastor Dana).
Did you know there are currently 190 veterans at Victory Place? We'd like your help to make sure each one receives a hand-written card for Christmas.
There will be tables setup in the back of the Worship Center on Sunday, December 15th with cards and pens. Please stop by either before or after service and write one (or many :))
We'll collect the cards and put a small gift card in each one, then deliver them.
If you would like to write cards before the 17th, please stop by the office and grab a handful to write at home!
Around the world, gender inequality is a significant driver of global poverty rates, denying women and girls of their inherent, God-given dignity. Women are more likely to experience significant poverty, illiteracy, and extreme hunger.
Empowering women to earn an income and support their families helps close gender gaps. One woman, Grace, received vocational training in a church-led project in Liberia. "I chose catering because I think this trade will help me earn income to help my family." she shared.
This year, the NCM Christmas Project will support empowerment projects for women and girls in Ghana, Liberia, and Ethiopia.
Will you empower women and uplift communities this Christmas?
GET INVOLVED:
Pray for women who face barriers that make it harder for them to feed their children, improve their economic output, or participate fully in society. Lift up those who are working to bring about life-altering change for the women and girls in their community.
Give to provide literacy and vocational training to women in Africa:
We will be taking a special offering in-person on Sunday, December 22. You can also Give Online anytime!
Plan to be a part of Renovation's Christmas Eve service December 24 at 5pm.
Wear your favorite Christmas sweater and take a family photo at the photo booth, then join us for music, a kids' story, and a message from Pastor Curt!
This family tradition concludes with a candlelight service.