Celebrate Advent with St. Clement's

Advent marks the turn of the church year, as we embark on our anticipation of Christ's birth. This season of prepartion is reflected in the natural world as well; plants, animals, birds and bees use this time of cold and darkness to ready themselves for all that is to come.

This year, our Advent theme is "All Creation Waits," inspired by the book by Gayle Boss. Nature has much to teach us; the recent devastating floods and fires in this province remind of how delicate is the balance of life on this planet. How do we balance our own lives, and use quiet times to prepare us for times of celebration and activity? How can Advent provide us with the spiritual nourishment we need in our "winter storehouse?"

We invite you to take part in our All Creation Waits theme in a number of ways. There is an online discussion group on the four Thursday evenings in Advent; pull up a chair for one or all four!

There is also an Advent Bag awaiting you at church. Pick one up on Sunday morning or let your friends in the community know they are welcome to get one from our office during the week. If you would like one dropped off to you, please contact Helen and she would be happy to hear from you.

Finally, as we think about our theme All Creation Waits, consider what you are waiting for during this season of Advent. What is your hope or prayer for Christmas? You are invited to write a word or phrase on a star and hang it at church or on the St. Clement's Christmas tree in Lynn Valley Village, which will be decorated after church on December 5.

(Oops, one more Advent treat for you! Be sure to visit our online advent calendar, going live on December 1!)