Advent Service Readings in the African Methodist Episcopal Church
Appearance: A Necessary Flavor
Past Rev. Monica C. Jones, PhD, sixth Episcopal District
One of the traditions that makes the African Methodist Episcopal Church a rich alloy of liturgical social club and cultural relevancy is our commemoration of the Advent Season. As an informed trunk of believers, nosotros know that Advent guides us to the true pregnant of Christmas. I elevator iii points equally nosotros approach this necessary season: Advent is not Christmas; Appearance is teachable; and Appearance is principled.
Advent precedes Christmas on the Christian calendar. It should not be dislocated with Christmastide. This special season translates from the Latin term Adventus Redemptoris, or the coming of the Savior, and it lauds the spirit of expectation or anticipation of Jesus the Christ.
During Advent, relevant prayers, music, readings, meditations, and hopefully, sermons may be presented to congregations in order to strengthen our Connection to Christ'south coming. Christian educators, pastors, and other leaders should emphasize that this season is for personal and spiritual reflection. Advent is an intentional worship experience that should be definitively identified, such as in the singing of the celebrated hymn, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.
Next, the concept of Advent can and should be taught. Each twelvemonth as November approaches, plans to teach the basic fundamentals are timely. Everyone does not understand Appearance, and then be prepared to teach the congregation about why we observe it, and that like Lent, information technology ushers in the climatic day of celebration. Beautiful, African American-inspired Christian education materials, sacred dance, and religious plays are merely a few modes of expression that enhance the learning feel and assistance brand Advent relevant for our congregations. Of course, preparing the church to observe the weekly (the four Sundays before Christmas) activities where candles are lit and the meaning of the colors is a vital office of the didactics moment. Resource are available through the AME Church's Christian Instruction online sites and many local AME churches' bookstores.
Finally, continue in mind equally we celebrate Advent independent of Christmas and teach its fundamental concepts that Advent is a principled expression of worship that is applicable anywhere and anytime. The four most pop themes are hope, peace, joy, and love. Even though these themes may not necessarily be recognized in that lodge, they represent of import principles of our religion. They are the spiritual material of Christian living. Without hope, nosotros have no reason to move forrard. Without joy, we are vacant wanderers. Without peace, we requite chaos command. Every bit Paul tells us, without love, we are but a sounding brass. It is an intergenerational lesson. As the church becomes familiar with the symbols of Appearance and how to present candle lightings, wreaths, and so on, the people develop their own special worship tradition. Most chiefly, they accept the lessons learned with them into the Christmas season.
This approach to understanding Advent represents an constructive way to encourage involvement and excitement in the church building. It enables us to bring the message of the Messiah abode to the hearts of people! Advent is not Christmas merely it ushers Christmas in. It tin can be taught creatively and meaningfully to worshipers. Information technology is principled and relevant to all believers. I pray that in this fourth dimension of uncertainty and dubiousness that we will move with ability and boldness into the Advent Season! Permit united states of america intentionally and prayerfully embrace each week. As we light a candle, announce a theme, write a meditation, or preach a sermon, let us remember that the reason for this flavor is to look our precious Savior! More than e'er, Advent is an important worship expression for each of usa; more than ever, Advent is necessary.
Note: Whenever the beginning Sunday of December falls on the 2nd week, equally it does this year, the kickoff Sun of Advent is the last Lord's day in November. Otherwise, it is the first Sunday in December. The Offset Sunday of Appearance this twelvemonth is November 27 and Christmas Day (the concluding candle lighting) is on the 4th Sun.
The Reverend Monica C. Jones, PhD, is the Director of Christian Didactics at Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
Source: https://www.thechristianrecorder.com/advent-a-necessary-season/
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