The Seasons of Advent & Christmas
During Advent, we pause from our usual pace to be renewed by community. Each Sunday at 9:15 a.m., we gather for intergenerational events that help us watch and wait for the coming of Christ. At 10:30 a.m., we’ll worship together in a service. Early risers are still welcome at 8:30 a.m. These gatherings lead up to our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.
November 29 | 9:15 a.m.
Advent I: Wreath Making
Join us for our annual intergenerational wreath-making event at 9:15 a.m. 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 5 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Advent Quiet Day
One of the main themes of Advent is expectant waiting grounded in hope. Join us for this day of reflection and communal silence as we pray, journal, walk the labyrinth, and share our hopes for now and the future. Give yourself the gift of quiet in this busy season. Lunch will be provided, so please register ahead of time and join us at St. Mark’s from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 5.
December 6 | 9:15 a.m.
Advent II: Las Posadas
Join us for our annual Las Posadas intergenerational event at 9:15 a.m., 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 8 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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 Linda Blount.
December 11 | 6 p.m. Pizza & 7 p.m. Concert
Christmas Pops Concert
Music from St. Mark’s presents its annual Christmas Pops Concert on Friday, December 11, at 7 p.m. with a brass and percussion ensemble conducted by Brett Richardson, and ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas narrated by The Rev. Beth Knowlton. Children of all ages are invited to come at 6 p.m. to have a sneak peek at some of the musicians and instruments and enjoy pizza before the concert.
December 12 | 4 p.m.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
St. Mark’s will host the Diocese of West Texas celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The image of La Virgen permeates Latino cultures and serves as a rallying point for hopes of liberation and justice revealed in Jesus Christ. Bishop Cortiñas will celebrate the liturgy, with music by mariachis. A reception and a children’s activity table will follow. The service will be livestreamed.
December 16 | 5:30 p.m.
A Light in the Darkness
Holiday Grief Service
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 in Bethlehem Chapel as we recall how the light of Christ shines in the darkness.
December 20 | 9:15 a.m.
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, 7:30, 10:15 p.m.
Christmas Eve
3:45 p.m. Prelude | 4 p.m. Holy Eucharist
Holy Eucharist and Children’s Choirs (Nursery and Children's Chapel)
7:30 p.m. Choral Prelude | 8 p.m. Holy Eucharist
With Brass and St. Mark’s Choir (Nursery)
10:15 p.m. Brass Prelude | 10:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist
With Brass, St. Mark’s Choir, and Incense (Nursery)
