Advent resonates deeply with people of various backgrounds and economic realities. But many have grown weary of the holiday ad campaigns that seem to start sometime around 4th of July and last until Christmas Eve. It has almost become a wearisome as political campaign season. Kids struggle to find the connection between their Christmas wish list and the story of Jesus’ birth. Parents search for the Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace that are promised in this season of preparation.
So many of us reach the end of each Advent season with an aching emptiness. Sifting through the piles of wrapping paper and gifts we don’t want or need—And something deep inside of us tells us we have missed it again. That feeling deep down in our soul that we so desperately had hoped and longed for has escaped us yet again.
The best gifts celebrate a relationship and a deeper meaning for us. Such a gift is priceless for many reasons, but mostly because it is personal—A father looks many years later at a gift that reminds him of a particular time and memory in their lives together. A mother who reads that special message from her daughter that still touches her heart and brings a tear to her eye.
Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as Rev. Fred Mast brings a very special Advent message entitled “The Greatest Gift Ever!” that shares the gift the Shepherds received first-hand in being present for the birth of the savior of the World. “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us.” (Luke 2:15b)
Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 a.m. featuring meaningful times of prayer, joyous music, and life messages that will help move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Our worship is upbeat and lively, and spirit filled
Immediately following worship, you are invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall this week for a very special fellowship time featuring delicious goodies and snacks, beverages, and always great hot coffee. This is the friendliest and most welcoming congregation & fellowship time anywhere!
Save the date for one of our two Candlelight Christmas Eve services, Saturday December 24th at 4PM or 6PM. Join us for an amazing evening of your favorite Christmas Carols, Candle lighting and the Christmas story told through the scriptures. All are welcome—Family friendly.
We offer several weekly book and bible studies: Tuesday’s join us @ 1:30 pm for a bible study at The Gathering Place in West Sedona; and Thursday’s Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries, and fellowship opportunities at Sedona UMC—Call our office for additional details.
Visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org and “Like” us on Facebook. We are conveniently located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona. All are welcome at Sedona United Methodist—Come and join this growing faith family! Invite, pick-up, and bring your friends and family.
