The Season of Advent
During Advent, we pause from our usual pace to be renewed by community. Each Sunday at 9:15 am, we gather for intergenerational events that help us watch and wait for the coming of Christ. At 10:30 am, we’ll worship together in a combined service. Early risers are still welcome at 8:30 am. These gatherings lead up to our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.
December 8 | Drop off Deadline
Crockett Holiday Gift Drive
Our partnership with Crockett continues with a gift drive serving 86 students. Our elves secured wishes for each child that can be found below. We're also seeking volunteers to help deliver the gifts to Crockett on Dec. 9, and to help host the holiday party the afternoon of Dec. 16.
December 1 | 9:15 am
Advent I: Wreath Making
Join us for our annual intergenerational wreath-making event at 9:15 am on the first Sunday of Advent—fun for all ages! We'll gather for a service, enjoy food, and create beautiful wreaths together. Breakfast will be provided.
December 4 | 5:30 pm
Healing Service for Grief During the Holidays
Holiday rituals can be comforting, celebratory reminders of the hope and joy God gives us in our lives, but grief may also arise this time of year—especially when we have experienced loss. This quiet liturgy is meant for those who long for the solace and hope of the Lord without the pressure to be merry. Healing prayer with anointing will be offered during this service. Join us for in Bethlehem Chapel as we recall how the light of Christ shines in the darkness.
December 7 | 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Advent Quiet Day
at Church of Reconciliation
Rev. Matthew Wise and Rev. Reagan Gonzalez will co-lead this day of reflection and contemplation, with worship and teaching. Lunch will be provided. Please register so we have a good count for lunch and snacks.
December 8 | 9:15 am
Advent II: Las Posadas
Join us for our annual Las Posadas intergenerational event at 9:15 am, open to all ages! Accompanied by Mariachis, we’ll follow in the footsteps of Mary and Joseph as they search for a place to stay in Bethlehem on the night Jesus was born. Breakfast will be provided.
December 12 | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Women of St. Mark's Christmas Luncheon
All women of the parish are invited to enjoy fellowship and conversation at this come-and-go holiday gathering. Meet new friends in the parish and catch up with others you haven't seen in too long. This year’s luncheon is hosted by Stephanie Cavender. Register to let us know you can join the fun, and let us know if you need a ride or can offer one.
December 22 | 9:15 am
Advent IV: Greening of the Church
On the fourth Sunday of Advent, join us to help green our historic worship space, the Nave! We’ll start with breakfast in Gosnell, then transition to decorating the Nave in preparation for the Festival of Lessons and Carols in the evening, as well as our Christmas Eve and Day services.
December 24 | 3:45, 7:45, 10:00 pm
Christmas Eve Services
3:45 pm Prelude | 4:00 pm Holy Eucharist
Holy Eucharist and Children’s Choirs (Nursery and Children's Chapel)
7:45 pm Brass Prelude | 8:00 pm Holy Eucharist
With Brass and St. Mark’s Choir (Nursery and Children's Chapel)
10:00 pm Choral Prelude | 10:30 pm Holy Eucharist
With Brass, St. Mark’s Choir, and Incense
