The end of November marks the beginning of advent, the Latin word for “coming” and the anticipation of Christ. As a child I remember my mother going to great efforts to make a “living” advent wreath. She would go into the woods to collect just the right evergreens and winterberries and then arrange them in a round tray that held water to keep them fresh. She then would go into town to find pink and purple candles. I remember the ritual of lighting the candle each evening with the wreath centered on our kitchen table. My four siblings and I eagerly watched as the circle of lit candles increase in number as Christmas approached. In my very young years, this was the strongest “decoration” of Christmas since our tree didn’t “appear” until Christmas morning.
I have always liked circles. I find them calming, continuous, strong, collaborative, and easy on the eyes. Right now, I am trying to keep this symbolism of circles in my mind. We are going through many transitions with uncertain outcomes. This may include things in our lives and communities. This can be unsettling and uncomfortable because I feel like I can’t really prepare, yet I also know I can’t add more things to my “worry list!” As I sit with my uncomfortable anticipation I try to find ways to connect to God’s guidance. This has led me to stretch and try new things to grow as an elementary teacher and as a Church Council member.
I continue to see Holy Trinity move through its own state of uncomfortable anticipation with success. Over these months, members have served through online and in-person church services, supported local neighbors in need, met the challenge of continuing to grow in faith, and continue to “come together” even though we are told to be safe and stay apart. We have also maintained strong offerings that allow us to support our Church and its ministries.
It is here that I find myself thinking about the importance of my Mother’s advent wreath and the power portrayed by the circle of candles lit together. As a Church, we have “lit many candles” over these past eight months. These candles are centering us to change in the ways that Christ asks us to live. I believe we will continue to do so with the leadership of Pastor Tim and the ongoing commitment and involvement of members who contribute in many ways.