First Connections Advent 2025

fi rs t co n n e c ti o n s STORIES OF LIFE AND FA I T H

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH RICHARDSON ADVENT 2025 VOLUME 20, ISSUE 4

Light in the Darkness

503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75080 972.235.8385 fumcr.com Senior Pastor Dr. Clayton Oliphint Director of Communications Francy Collins Graphic Designer Kyle Henson Communications Team Paige Hughes Leslie Kring

First Connections (USPS 022-024) is published four times a year by First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N. Central Expressway, Richardson, TX 75080.

Periodicals postage paid at Richardson, TX and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: First Connections, PO Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75083-0877

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, we enter into the sacred season of Advent. This is a time to remember that even in the deepest darkness God’s light still shines. Advent is a time to pause, to prepare, to ponder, and to open our hearts to the light that shines in the darkness, knowing the darkness cannot overcome it.

With our Advent theme, Light in the Darkness, we will journey together through scripture and song as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The light of the world came in the most unexpected way, not with glitz or glamour, but in a stable in Bethlehem.

Into a world which often feels uncertain and divisive, the light of Christ continues to surprise us, shining hope, peace, joy, and love into our lives.

I hope you will join us for this special season in worship, service, music, and more. Our Advent and Christmas Eve services will feature cherished music, the lighting of candles, and the biblical story of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the angels, the shepherds, and the wise men. We will hear these stories with fresh eyes and ears as we reflect on the many ways God’s light is still shining in this world.

Our Chancel Choir will present a concert with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra at the Eisemann Center. Our Service of Hope, opportunities to serve and give, and other special events for all ages will offer additional meaning and depth to the Christmas story. I hope you’ll invite a friend to our glorious Christmas Eve candlelight services or any of the opportunities to join together in anticipation and celebration of this holy season.

In Christ,

Clayton Oliphint

Advent Workshop Sunday, Nov 30, 2-4pm

Family Worship at 2pm in the Worship & Arts Center followed by creating handmade treasures that celebrate the season $30 per family · fumcr.com/advent

Community Movie Night: The Polar Express Friday, Dec 5, 5:30-8pm Dinner provided RSVP by 5pm, Dec 4 fumcr.com/advent

y C a l d a i s l s o i cs H Christmas Concert

Our Chancel Choir will join the Richardson Symphony Orchestra for joyful harmonies and timeless carols in a festive atmosphere.

December 6, 7:30pm, Eisemann Center Tickets starting at $26 · fumcr.com/concert

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Huffhines Park

Evenings of Dec 6-7, 12-14, 19-21 Learn more and sign up for a shift: fumcr.com/santasvillage

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 5PM SANCTUARY & LIVESTREAM In this season of expectation, decorations, and parties, the sense of loss can be profound. We look to God for light and comfort, for the Spirit’s presence even in our empty places, and for hope.

Pageant · 11am*

Modern · 1pm, 3pm

*Streaming online at fumcr.com/online

Traditional · 5pm, 7pm*, 9pm

9pm includes communion

Online · On Demand

youtube.com/fumcr

poinsettias A gift in honor or memory of a loved one Beautiful poinsettias will decorate our campus and worship spaces during Advent and Christmas. If you would like to make a special gift, you may give online or by using an envelope from a pew or seat back by December 14. fumcr.com/poinsettias

Your Advent Offering will be given to two dynamic organizations that work passionately to make positive impacts in the lives of individuals and families. You may give online at fumcr.com/givenow

Network of Community Ministries works to care, coach, and empower our neighbors in need as they seek an improved quality of life. thenetwork.org

Methodist Children’s Home seeks to equip children, youth, and families by offering hope through Christ-centered relationships and support via a residential program, transition care, parenting education, and foster caregiver support. mch.org

All Youth Christmas Party Sunday DEC 14 5:307:30pm Coleman Family Hall

X-mas sweater contest, holiday games, sing-along, food, gift exchange

THANK YOU! Your support of the International Christmas Market makes a lasting difference for small-scale artisans, co-ops, farmers, and missions locally and throughout the world.

MARKET SHARES

Honor a loved one or make an end-of-year gift to a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of those they serve. Give online by Dec. 31:

fumcr.com/marketshares

Angel Tree Pick up a tag from the tree in Shawver Welcome Center and return the unwrapped gift by December 1.

Blended Worship: 9:45 & 11am in the sanctuary Online Worship: 9:45am, 11am & on demand No childcare, no Sunday school

PERIODICALS

503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75080 972.235.8385 fumcr.com

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

We invite you to join us for the sights and sounds of the season.

fumcr.com/Christmas