You are warmly invited into the season of Advent; a time to pause amidst the busyness, reflect on the spirit of the season, and prepare our hearts to receive the good news of Christ's birth. Advent has been celebrated in the Christian church for over 1,000 years.
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve (this year, November 29th). Each week, as we light a new candle on our Advent wreath, it has become traditional to turn our thoughts to the theme for that week: Hope, Peace, Joy or Love.
You can join in with us from home. Click here for short prayers to accompany each week's candle lighting. Or contact us and we will drop off a free "Advent in a Bag" kit to anyone living in North Vancouver, while quantities last. It contains materials to make a simple Advent wreath and other ideas for celebrating the season.
Each week a new section of this website will offer a virtual Advent wreath lighting from St. Clement's, reflections on the theme from our fellow citizens in the community, and stories, songs, prayers and blessings on Hope, Peace, Joy or Love. There is much here to inspire people of all ages!
And don't forget to visit our Advent Tree in Lynn Valley Village, along with St. Clement's new outdoor Advent wreath. Come find us at 3400 Institute Rd. Warm Advent wishes to you as we journey together to Christmas.
First Week of Advent
We would love to see Mary and Jesus on their travels through North Vancouver as they look for lodging. Use your own nativity figures, ask us for our free Advent-in-a-Bag kit with a cardstock Mary and Joseph included, or download your favourite Mary and Joseph here! Please send your photos to peggy@stclementschurch.ca so we can share them with others.
Starting December 1, journey around Lynn Valley and North Vancouver as we share Advent photos, thoughts and messages - including some of yours!
What does it mean to have hope?
A message from the Rev. André Stephany
What does Hope mean to you?
We asked people in our church and in our community
Activities for this Week
Stories, Music, Podcasts, and More
A gathered collection of hope-filled resources we found and liked. Thanks to all artists, writers and speakers represented!
Some photos from the week!
Have you had a look at our new Advent lighting?
Thanks to everyone who is helping us celebrate the season of Advent in new and novel ways this year. And thank you to those who are sharing photos of their Advent activities from home! Watch them pop up in weeks to come!
1) What is the colour most associated with Advent?
2) According to Japanese tradition, how many cranes must a person fold for one hope or wish to come true?