The Second Sunday of Advent:

Today is the Second Sunday in Advent! Advent is a time of preparation; for waiting and preparing in faith and peace. We prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus.

At Advent, the Gospel readings tell us about God’s promises to send the world a Saviour – someone who would show the way to God and teach us about God’s love and forgiveness. The reading for Advent 2 is Luke 3: 1-6.

The Advent candle we will light this Sunday is the candle of the peace that we have through faith. We are transformed as we persist in peace through faith, without falling away. As the candle is lit, we say “Longing to make an offering to God in righteousness, we light this candle in anticipation of the coming of God’s messenger and our willingness to endure the transformation of our lives.” Please think about the following questions:

• How are we transformed in our lives through faith in Christ?
• Imagine that you are one of the original listeners to the text in the gospel reading. What would you think and feel after listening to these words?
• After listening to the words in this reading, what would you tell others about the words of the prophet Isaiah?

I would like to remind you of a special ministry of St Paul’s Uniting Church Stafford, a Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance, which is held each year. This Service is for anyone who has suffered loss of any kind, particularly the loss of a loved one, and for those who would like to support them. At special times of the year, and especially at Christmas, the absence of a loved one from our celebrations may intensify our grief and sadness. During this service, you will have time to remember and give thanks for the life of your loved ones, whose presence you will miss from your Christmas celebrations.

You are invited to attend this Service, which will be held next Sunday, 12 December commencing at 3pm at St Paul’s Uniting Church. Due to COVID-19 restrictions it is important you book a seat using this link.

For those who attend this service, may you all find comfort and peace, and be reminded of the hope brought by the Christmas message.

Come and share with others, who also remember someone special.