Advent is a season of waiting for the birth of hope, joy, peace, and love in our world. But we aren’t passively sitting around, vacantly staring at the ground, or scrolling on our phones.

Our’s is a Living Advent.

We are actively preparing and our lives are in motion. We are embodying love as we collect food, clothing and supplies through our Living Advent Wreath. We are conduits of hope and peace as we share generous Christmas gifts for members of the community through our Angel Tree. We share joy and laughter through our annual Cantata and Ugly Sweater Sunday.

This season is not passive at all, it is vibrant, active and alive. Join us as we light a candle, and actively await the birth of Christ through a Living Advent.

Every worship service will feature candle light, Holy Communion, and Christmas Carols as we welcome the Christ child who was born so many years ago, and continues to be born in us today.

ORGAN LED

10:30AM & 5:15PM*

*Choir sings at 5:15 service

EPIC ENSEMBLE LED

2:00PM & 3:30PM

Matthew 25:37-40

37 Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? 38 And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? 39 And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ 40 And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’

All who enter our doors are welcomed, valued, and loved. Jesus show us all how to love everyone - with agape love. We can show this love to others by giving small gifts to help through what can be a difficult season for some. So we give during this season with intention, love, and joy.

Week 1: Hope

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

This week, let’s take a moment to reflect on the power of hope. Even in challenging times, hope can provide strength and comfort. Through simple acts of kindness, we can be the source of hope for others in our community.

To support this mission, we are collecting family hygiene items to share hope and care with those in need. Things like:

  • Full-size body wash

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Toothpaste and toothbrushes

  • Cotton balls and swabs

  • Bar soap and hand sanitizer

  • Lip balm

  • Feminine hygiene products

All collected items will be distributed to RPS, Gage East, and the Exchange, helping families and individuals in need

Week 2: Joy

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Joy is found in the laughter of children as they play freely, unburdened by the cold or wet of winter. For the second week of Advent, let’s spread that joy by collecting waterproof snow gear for elementary students in need. By collecting waterproof mittens, boots (size 12-4), and snow pants (5T-XL), we can ensure every child has the opportunity to embrace the beauty of the season with comfort and happiness. Together, we can make winter a time of joyful memories for all. This collection will go to students in need at RPS.

Week 3: Peace

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

For the third week of Advent, embrace the theme of peace by collecting new underwear and new socks for those in need. These simple yet essential items provide comfort, security, and dignity. Together, we can offer them a sense of peace and care during this season of giving.

Week 4: Love

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22

This week we’ll be collecting laundry detergent and coins for laundromats. This may seem like a stretch, but the fresh smell of clothes after they are washed can make someone feel so loved! Laundry detergent isn’t always at the top of anyones list, but it is essential and appreciated. These gifts will go to students and families through Threads, RPS, Gage East, and the Exchange.

Once again, Gloria Dei will be supporting those among us with our annual Angel Tree. Monetary donations will go towards Christmas gifts for our Gloria Dei members who are in need financially or emotionally, or who have been ill or grieving. You will receive a Christmas ornament of your choice with a donation.

If you know of anyone connected with Gloria Dei who is in need this year, please contact Beth Krolak at bethk@gloria-dei.com

You can stop by the Angel Tree in the lobby before or after any of the following services:

  • Wednesday, November 29

  • Sunday, December 3

  • Wednesday, December 6

  • Sunday, December 10

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP HAPPEN

We are excited to announce that poinsettias are now available for purchase at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church! These beautiful plants are not only a traditional symbol of Christmas but also a great way to help decorate our sanctuary. For just $14, you can support the beautification of our worship space. Envelopes are available on Sunday mornings or follow the link below to purchase yours today! Payments are due on Monday, December 11.