The Insistence of Hope
“In the time of Herod…” Luke begins the story of Jesus with a reminder that light first broke into a fearful and uncertain world. Then, as now, people lived under the shadow of oppression, division, and doubt. And yet, into that darkness came angels whispering, “Do not be afraid.”
This Advent, as we listen again to those ancient words, we remember that God’s light still shines in places shadowed by fear. The birth of Christ reveals the insistence of hope—a courage that holds fast amid uncertainty, a steady, trembling light that cannot be extinguished. Such hope does not arise from the absence of fear, but from the deep assurance that God’s love endures through it all.
Advent invites us to pause amid the noise and chaos of our days to watch for signs of God’s coming among us. Through worship, prayer, music, and community, we prepare our hearts for the One who brings peace to a fearful world and joy to all people. As we gather for the special services and events of this season, may the insistence of hope kindle the light of Christ within us and guide us to love boldly in a world that longs for illumination.
WORSHIP DURING ADVENT
SUNDAYS @ 8:00 & 9:30 AM
Christmas Eve
5:00 & 7:30 pm
Candlelight Lessons & Carols
A traditional Christmas Eve celebration with scripture readings and carols that tell the story of Christ’s birth. Music by the Chancel Choir, Brass Quintet, and Percussion
11:00 pm
Candlelight Communion
A serene, candlelit worship service with communion, celebrating the arrival of Christ. Music by the Chancel Choir, Brass Quintet, and Percussion
Christmas Eve Offering
For decades, First’s Christmas Eve offering has supported those in need near and far. This year’s offering goes to ACT Alliance (Action by Churches Together), a global coalition of churches and faithbased organizations working for justice, peace, and humanitarian aid. (Among its members is the PC(USA)’s Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.)
Your gifts will help provide food, medical care, and hope to communities affected by the crisis in Gaza. Through ACT Alliance, our compassion joins with partners around the world embodying Christ’s love and peace where it is most needed.
The Season of Advent December 2025
Deck the Halls
Monday & Tuesday
Nov. 24 & 25, Dec. 1 & 2
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 4:00 PM
Help make our church shine for Advent and Christmas! Come Deck the Halls as we decorate the church for the season. All ages are welcome—many hands make light (and joyful!) work. Sign up to volunteer: fpca2.org
Christmas Poinsettias
Order by December 5
If you wish to donate a poinsettia to beautify our services on December 14, 21, and 24, the cost is $15. You can donate in memory or honor of a loved one. Poinsettias will be delivered to those in need by our Deacons. The deadline for purchasing is Friday, December 5.
Purchase online at fpca2.org
First Sunday of Advent
Sunday, November 30
8:00 AM Worship | Monteith Hall
Rev. Hanna Richards preaching 9:30 AM Worship | Sanctuary
Rev. Hanna Richards preaching
Second Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 7
8:00 AM
Worship | Monteith Hall Susan Whitlock preaching
9:30 AM
Worship | Sanctuary
Rev. David Prentice-Hyers preaching
Taizé Prayer Service
Tuesday, December 2
7:00 PM | Monteith Hall
Experience a beautiful form of prayer, inspired by the ecumenical community in Taizé, France.
Advent Happening!
Saturday, December 6
10 AM - 12 PM | Social Hall
Join us for a joyful morning as we prepare our hearts and homes for Christmas! We’ll make cards, decorate cookies, create soup jar gifts, and craft decorations for the children’s nativity service.
Bring a book or two for the swap— children’s, young adult, or adult—and pick a new story to take home.
Campus Ministry Pancake Supper
Tuesday, December 9
8:00 - 10:00 PM | Social Hall
Take a break from studying and join us for the Pancake Supper. Enjoy a free late-night breakfast and good company before exams begin.
Volunteers are needed to help cook, serve, and welcome students. If you’d like to lend a hand, sign up online or contact the church office.
The Glorious Sounds of Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 14
4:00 PM | Sanctuary
Share the joy of the holiday season at our festive Christmas concert featuring the Chancel Choir, Joyful Ringers, Sanctus Ringers, and Lemon Chapel Singers. Following the concert, enjoy a strolling reception with live music in each room, a variety of delicious food and holiday treats, and a special visit from Santa.
The Longest Night Service
Sunday, December 21
7:00 PM | Monteith Hall
Rev. Melissa Anne Rogers preaching
Fostering Futures & Family-to-Family Christmas
Help children and families in need during the Christmas season through the Family-toFamily and Fostering Futures programs. You can help in two different ways: provide gifts for a foster child (sign-up through November 28), or help a family by purchasing and delivering gifts (sign-up through December 7).
To sign up, visit fpca2.org
Paul Keller Jazz Christmas Concert with a Cause
Wednesday, December 17
7:00 PM | Sanctuary
Enjoy an evening of exceptional jazz with Paul Keller and friends. A love offering will benefit Garrett’s Space, supporting mental health and suicide prevention for young adults.
Third Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 14
8:00 AM
Worship | Monteith Hall
Rev. Mark Mares preaching
9:30 AM
Nativity Service | Sanctuary
All children are invited to participate in the no-rehearsal retelling of the Nativity story.
Share and hear prayers, scripture, and music that acknowledge that God’s presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle, and that God’s Word comes to shine light into our darkness. to swap!
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 21
8:00 AM
Worship | Monteith Hall Rev. Hanna Richards preaching
9:30 AM
Worship | Sanctuary
Rev. David Prentice-Hyers preaching
First Sunday of Christmas
Sunday, December 28 One Worship Service
9:30 AM
Worship | Sanctuary
Rev. Sarah Rutherford preaching