As I write this we are a day or two away from the midway point of Advent. If your Advent has been like mine, it is flying by. The sense of “being prepared” may be settling in or it may be better described as elusive or non-existent.
How can the Cathedral help with that? First we extend to you an invitation to take three minutes to sit down, turn off the noise makers (computers, phones, TVs, radios, etc.), and next take a few slow deep breaths. As you do, offer this prayer with the flow of your breathing: Still me. Calm me. Come, Lord Jesus. (This may be repeated as often as needed in almost any setting. It works especially well when lighting the candles in your Advent wreath.)
Some other things that may encourage and support your Advent journey include attending the Advent Quiet Afternoon on Sunday, December 11 from 3:00 to 5:00. Come for all or part. Help us “Green the Cathedral” on Sunday, December 18 after the 10:30 service. Stay or return that afternoon for Lessons and Carols (Sunday, December 18 at 4:00pm). It is followed by a Candlelight Reception in Barth Hall.
Also, pull out your Bible and read the story of the Annunciation to Mary, or of the journey to Bethlehem and the Savior’s birth. You will find them all at the beginning of Luke’s Gospel. (I’m not giving you the exact verses so you can meander through to find them.)
Advent blessings,
Scott+
