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Our Advent and Christmas Eve Worship Series
It has been over 200 years since “Silent Night, Holy Night” was first sung. This carol has become one of the most cherished moments of worship for Christians everywhere—even for those who may only come to church once a year. Something sacred happens as we lift our candles and sing the hope of “all is calm, all is bright.”
This year’s worship series celebrates the carol’s message throughout the entire season of Advent, inviting us to embody its call year-round. The story of the 1914 Christmas Truce—when soldiers on opposite sides laid down their weapons and sang “Silent Night” in their own languages—inspires our journey toward peace.
Advent and Christmastide Worship Times and Themes
Sunday, Nov. 30, 8:45 & 11:00 a.m.
First Sunday of Advent - "Sleep in Heavenly Peace"
One of the most beloved stories behind this hymn comes from World War I, when British and German soldiers called a Christmas truce. Their camps were so close that they could hear each other singing “Silent Night” in their own languages. Moved by the moment, they walked onto the battlefield unarmed, shared gifts, and played soccer. Humanity is the holy infant for whom God longs to bring heavenly peace.
How might we bring a bit of calm and bright into our own corners of the world?
Wednesday, Dec. 10, 6 p.m.
Service of Hope and Healing
The holidays stir up many emotions—joy, yes, but also grief, stress, loneliness, or longing. If this season feels heavy, you’re not alone. Join us for a gentle, reflective Service of Hope and Healing led by our pastor and deacons.
You’ll find space to breathe, pray, rest in God’s presence, and let light reach the places that ache.
All are welcome. Come as you are.
Sunday, Dec. 14, 8:45 & 11:00 a.m.
Third Sunday of Advent - With the Dawn of Redeeming Grace
The hymn’s third verse calls the presence of God in human form the “dawn of redeeming grace.” God came close—living, breathing, teaching, touching, loving. Because we are made in God’s image, we are called to nurture relationships that birth and radiate grace in the world.
What might our world look like if “love’s pure light” were truly at the center?
This Sunday, we will also confirm four of our youth—three of whom will be baptized—as they take this meaningful step of professing their faith and joining the church.
Sunday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. only
Fourth Sunday of Advent - "A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Advent"
Join us for the beautiful service of Lessons and Carols for Advent. Through readings, anthems, and carols, we trace God’s redeeming love—from the first promise of hope to the angel’s announcement to Mary.
This service weaves together prophecy, poetry, and music as we wait in joyful expectation for Christ’s birth. Our choir, youth readers, and musicians will help lead us in this cherished Advent journey.
Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4 p.m.
Christmas Eve Family Service
Bring the whole family for a warm, kid-friendly Christmas Eve service. With familiar carols, a simple telling of the Nativity, and a spontaneous Christmas Pageant where children may dress up as shepherds, sheep, or angels, this service welcomes all ages.
Wiggles, whispers, and wide-eyed wonder are encouraged as we celebrate the birth of Jesus together.
Wednesday, Dec. 24, 9 p.m.
Christmas Eve Candlelight & Communion Service
There is something about Christmas Eve. It’s hard to name that something we feel—different for each of us, shaped by memories that grow richer and more complex over time. Maybe it’s the quiet pull to reflect on those we love, those we miss, and the stories that bind us together. Perhaps that’s why the words “all is calm, all is bright” rest so deeply in our spirits.
On this night, we remember God’s promise—Emmanuel, God-with-us forevermore.
Join us for a peaceful service of Scripture, music, Communion, and hope. We will close by singing “Silent Night” by candlelight, letting its steady glow carry us into Christmas morning.
Sunday, Dec. 28, 11 a.m. only
First Sunday after Christmas
Continue the joy of Christmas with a gentle service of Scripture and beloved carols. We’ll hear the story of Christ’s birth once more and lift our voices in song as we savor the light and hope of this holy season.
All are welcome.
Holiday Events
Lighting the Yule Log & Carol Sing
Location: Hobbs Chapel
Sunday, Dec. 7, 6:00 p.m.
Join us for an Anchorage community tradition - Lighting the Yule Log and Carol Sing. To be held Sunday, December 6 at 6 p.m., we will gather around the fire at Hobbs Chapel on East Osage Road in Anchorage. Tara and our Children’s Choir Director, Darla Talbert, will lead us all in song. Dress appropriately for the weather and if the weather forecast leads to a cancellation beforehand, we will email you and post the notice on Facebook. Bring a flashlight or a candle. Songbooks are provided by the Anchorage Garden Club.
Progressive Dinner & Madrigal Singers
Friday, Dec. 12 , 6:00 p.m.
One of our favorite fellowship events is about two weeks away. Make your plans now to join us on Friday, December 12 at 6 p.m. for the Progressive Christmas Dinner.
We start the evening at a host house to enjoy heavy appetizers and cocktails before we all gather in Fellowship Hall for a potluck dessert. And while you enjoy your festive goodies, the Ballard High School Madrigal Singers will surround us with sounds of the season.
Each APC member is encouraged to bring a non-member guest. A member ticket is $15 per person and the non-member ticket is free. Sign up information for the progressive dinner can be found in the weekly APC email.
Kids Christmas Pajama Party
Friday, Dec. 12 , 5:45 p.m.
While the adults mingle at the host houses for the Progressive Christmas Dinner, we will have a Kids Christmas Pajama Party at the church! Kids can bring a pillow and wear their favorite pajamas while enjoying pizza, popcorn, hot cocoa and a holiday movie.
The event will be staffed by two of our APC Youth members and our regular Sunday childcare staff. Children are welcome to join their parents at Fellowship Hall for the Madrigal Singers, but we will also have a Christmas craft if they’d like to continue to have fun with their fellow youth.
Sign up information for the progressive dinner can be found in the weekly APC email.