Advent & Christmas

SCHEDULE OF SPECIAL EVENTS

Sat. 12/6

Advent 2 / Feast of St. Nicholas

  • TIME & LOCATION: 4pm @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: After our liturgy the old saint will make a brief appearance to share the true story of the man we now know as Santa Claus, especially his love for serving Jesus, his Church, and the poor. Children will also be invited to leave one of their shoes at the entrance of the sanctuary before worship so that St. Nick can fill them with (chocolate) gold coins, a fun tradition on his feast day.

  • OPEN HOUSE TOY DRIVE: As part of today’s celebration we will collect and bless toys for the children at the family shelter down the street. Please purchase items from this list that they have requested.

Sat. 12/13

Reconciliation of Penitents

  • TIME & LOCATION: 2:30-3:30pm in the choir loft @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: While one can request to make a private confession with a priest at any time, the practice is especially encouraged during the penitential seasons of Advent and Lent. Fr. Mike will be available to hear confessions prior to the Eucharist on Advent 3. You can learn more about the Anglican understanding of this practice and how to prepare for confession here. Remember, in the words of Richard Hooker, “all may, some should, none must.” This is a rite of grace available to all, especially recommended for the few who need spiritual guidance and assurance of God’s forgiveness, but not required for anyone.

Mon. 12/15

Lessons & Carols

  • TIME & LOCATION: 6pm @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: A beloved Advent tradition that originated in England, this simple hour-long service combines scripture readings (lessons) and carols to tell the story of salvation from the creation and fall to the birth of Jesus Christ. Bring family and friends to join for this evening of musical praise. As always, children are encouraged to worship with us! NOTE: no nursery or children’s liturgy this evening.

Sat. 12/20

Advent 4 / Eucharist of Healing and Hope

  • TIME & LOCATION: 4pm @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: Christmas is a time of great joy, but for many of us it also brings painful reminders of the loved ones we have lost or the burdens and sickness we carry. During our Advent 4 Eucharist we will dedicate special time to praying for the suffering in our midst. Our clergy will also be available after Holy Communion to anoint and pray for the sick. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Wed. 12/24

Christmas Eve Eucharist

  • TIME & LOCATION: 6pm @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: We begin the 12 days of Christmas with a festive Eucharist! During the first half of the liturgy, Iona’s children are invited to help set up the Crèche and join in a procession of the Christ Child to the Manger. After Holy Communion we sing Silent Night and other favorite Christmas hymns by candlelight. NOTE: no nursery or children’s liturgy this evening.

Fri. 12/26

St. Stephen’s Day Open House

  • TIME & LOCATION: 5:30-8:30pm @ The Eyk Family’s home (contact admin@ionacommunity.com for address)

  • DESCRIPTION: All are welcome to come and go for finger food and fellowship. Prayer and carols will begin at 8pm. Let us keep the feast!

Mon. 1/5

Twelfth Night Parties

  • TIME & LOCATION: 5:30pm @ Table Groups

  • DESCRIPTION: Join your Table Group for a celebration of the final night of Christmastide. Contact admin@ionacommunity.com to learn more about joining a Table Group.

Tues. 1/6

Epiphany Eucharist

  • TIME & LOCATION: 6pm @ 1309 Franklin St.

  • DESCRIPTION: Like Christmas, today is one of the 7 Principal Feasts in the Church Calendar. Coming from a Greek word meaning “revelation,” on Epiphany we celebrate Jesus’ revelation as the Son of God to the whole world. The reading most associated with this day is the Magi’s visitation of the Christ child. Join us for an evening Eucharist. NOTE: no nursery or children’s liturgy this evening.