(Our advent guide put together by Katie Rogers at Boston Mountain Youth Ranch can be found here.)
Introduction
It might seem strange to hold a place for a party in a world that seems so intent on self destruction – so full of pain and questions. It might seem like it is somehow a betrayal to let ourselves feel joy when so many people we know or know of are deeply suffering. It might seem impossible to work up the emotions to join in on a celebration when all you feel is darkness and despair. However, the joy we choose to celebrate this coming Sunday is not a betrayal nor impossible, although I will admit that it is strange. It is strange in the sense that it is a signal that our hope is not in giving ourselves over to the messages and meaning of the world, but is sourced and rooted in the message and messenger that transcends everything. It’s a sign that hope produced by our joy promises redemption of even the most tragic and destructive experiences – it is not whistling in the dark, but singing in the light that comes from God. Join us this Sunday and let’s let joy burst out!
Grace and peace y’all,
John Ray and the teaching team
The rest of the month is laid out below – subject to change as we are waiting for the rest of the Perch to be completed. If you have any questions, please reach out to us!
- 15 December, Chili and Pie Cookoff, 4:30pm – 6:00pm, (35 N Hartman Ave, Fayetteville, AR – Sign Up genius is here! Bring your camping chairs – we will have a fire pit going on outside, it should be great weather)
- 21 December, Blue Christmas, 7:00pm – 8:00pm, at the Bells (weather pending)
- 24 December, Christmas Eve Party & Service, 4:30pm – 6:00pm, (Location pending)
- 29 December, NO SERVICE – Enjoy Time with Family and Friends!
