Did you know Unitarian Universalists have been quietly curating some of the most common American Christmas traditions since the first of them arrived on this continent?* Live trees in living rooms, singing carols, helping those in need, and the general Christmas theme of peace, are all practices introduced and stewarded by UUs!
While we are not a creedal faith, meaning we don’t share a common theology, we UUs are great at crafting customs and rituals that welcome, uplift, and inspire. This year, UUCM will host three Christmas gatherings with both new and age-old practices to offer tidings of the comforts of winter weather, the joy of new beginnings, and the cheer of being together.
Tuesday, December 24, 4:30pm The Edge of Christmas: A Christmas Eve Service Rev. Kevin Tarsa and Lindsay Dunckel, Worship Associate, with the UUCM Choir and Betsy Haydon, Harp
Come, gather in open-hearted, open-minded community to celebrate “the gladness of Christmas, which is Hope, the spirit of Christmas, which is Peace, and the heart of Christmas, which is Love.” Carols, poetry, candlelight, messages for all and all ages to notice and celebrate what wants to be born in us.
You are invited to bring a simple refreshment to share.
Tuesday, December 24, 7:30pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Singing & Meditation Rev. Kevin Tarsa
The magical energy of Christmas Eve midnight services gets channeled this year into this intimate, less formal (and not so late) service of candlelight, singing, silence, connection, mystery and wonder, with Rev. Kevin at the piano. Come, center, settle, sing, listen within, connect, breathe, be…
Wednesday, December 25, 1:00pm Christmas Day Potluck & Carols Rev. Kevin & YOU!
Come celebrate Christmas Day and community as our Christmas Day potluck returns. We’ll eat at 1:00PM, then from 2:30-4:00PM Rev. Kevin will host a carol sing around the piano.
Go to event page to RSVP and see who has signed up! For more information, please contact KathrynYoung@uugrassvalley.org
*References:
- “A Christmas Miracle: Why Unitarians Still Celebrate Christmas,” Rev. Clay Nelson, Auckland Unitarian Church, NZ
- “How Unitarians Saved Christmas,” Rev. Nathan Detering, First Parish in Sherborn, MA, published on Business Insider’s blog, Angry Bear Blog
- “Unitarians’ Influence on How Americans Celebrate Christmas Today,” Lynne Quinto, UU Church at Washington Crossing, Titusville, NJ
- “The Unitarian Heritage of Christmas,” Rev. Paul Oakley, UU Fellowship of Waynesboro, TX