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This Advent season, Pleasant Hill will join Christians around the world in embracing a countercultural way of living, shaped not by fear or frenzy, but by the gifts Christ brings when He arrives among us: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.
In a slow, progressive manner and using themes and insights from Living as Advent People, we will explore how Christ’s presence transforms the world within us so we can live with courage, compassion, and clarity in the world around us. Advent reminds us that God’s coming is not only a story of long ago, it is a present reality. Christ is continually arriving in ordinary lives and everyday moments, inviting us to become people who reflect His life-giving presence.
Each Sunday in December will deepen our preparation for Christmas by focusing on one gift of Christ’s coming:
November 30 – Advent 1: People of Hope
We begin by noticing and choosing hope, even when circumstances feel uncertain, trusting that God is at work in ways we cannot always see.
December 7 – Advent 2: People of Peace
We seek the stillness and grounding Christ offers in a turbulent world, learning what it means to become peacemakers in our relationships and community.
December 14 – Advent 3: People of Joy
We rediscover joy not as mere sentiment, but as strength—an inner resilience sustained by God’s presence.
December 21 – Advent 4: People of Love
We open ourselves to the transforming, self-giving love revealed in Christ, a love that reshapes how we see God, one another, and ourselves.
As we journey together toward Christmas, may we listen and prepare for Christ’s arrival in our lives and let His gifts shape how we Reach, Grow, and Serve.
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