Advent & Christmas Schedule of Services

Service of Lessons & Carols: Sunday, December 21

Ascension has had a long tradition of celebrating the last Sunday in Advent with a service of Lessons and Carols. The service consists of nine scripture readings that focus on the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus. Each reading is followed by a musical selection and, not unlike the Easter vigil, it is a place marker of where we are in God’s story of redemption.

This year the children will join us for the first part of the service and then be dismissed to Kids’ Church. There will be a homily but no communion. The service will be the same at both 9am and 11am. Consider coming as a family and perhaps inviting friends as we open our hearts to reflect as a community on the story of salvation in scripture and song.

Christmas Eve Family Service at 6pm

All are invited to this warm service that is designed with children in mind. We will celebrate the nativity of Jesus with a children’s pageant and sing the great carols of Christmas, concluding with Silent Night by candlelight. Childcare for children aged 3 and under will be provided. Children aged 4 and older are with us for the service.Please remember to bring your bells to ring in the birth of Jesus!

Christmas Eve Festival Eucharist at 10pm

Our late Christmas Eve service will feature a Festival Procession, incense, candles, and the great music of the season in celebration of the birth of the Christ child. Childcare is not provided. Please remember to bring bells!

Christmas Day Service of Holy Eucharist at 10am

The lessons are different from Christmas Eve so that those who wish to make this their second service of Christmas may join those who prefer quiet to the festival celebrations on Christmas Eve. Childcare is not provided.