Friday, November 30, 2018

Advent

Hello Chapel Families,

     I hope everyone is transitioning well after the Thanksgiving holiday. I hope you will be able to join us for our Sunday service at 9:30. It will be a beautiful beginning to Advent and a way to move into all the holiday traditions and festivities throughout December. As a mother of an 11 and 8 year-old, I hope to help my children see beyond the "getting" and to enjoy the rituals and understand the meaning underneath the beautiful traditions in this season. 
    As mentioned in the Chapel newsletter, children will be invited to walk the Advent Spiral before they head downstairs. We will talk briefly about the history of Advent and traditions around the world. Then we'll construct an Advent wreath together, and discuss the symbolism of the evergreen, the wreath shape, and the candles. We'll light the first candle, symbolizing HOPE, then visualize our hopes for the 2018 holiday season, followed by a voluntary share session. We'll close by singing "Oh Come, Oh Come Emmanuel", a traditional Advent carol. 
    For the Advent wreath, I thought each child could bring something special to add to it, such as a seashell, a small animal, pine cone, stone, or twig. Once Advent is over, we can return these items if they're sentimental. 
     We started a gratitude tree a couple of weeks ago, and kids will be encouraged to continue adding gratitude leaves, which will be provided. 
    I really look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday! 

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Wednesday, December 5th: A brainstorming session for the Chapel's Ice Sculpture! Please come with ideas for a beautiful "wintersculpture"! We'll provide pizza and beverages. Be sure to RSVP to michelle@aspenchapel.org

Sunday, December 23rd: Holiday Story time and Ornament-making from 2:00-4:00! Kids all ages welcome!

If you ever have questions or concerns regarding our services or your children's needs, please email me at michelle@aspenchapel.org

In Peace and Blessings, 
Michelle 
Youth Coordinator, Aspen Chapel