Advent begins on Sunday, November 30th this year, and what a joyful season we have ahead of us! Not because of the decorations, food, and gifts - although those are all good things - but because we receive the most important gift of all, Jesus, our Savior! The theme for OUMC's 2025 Advent season is "All Earth is Waiting" as we look back at the Incarnation and forward to the day when the kingdom of heaven comes to earth. We are all longing for the redemption, salvation, and transformation that Jesus came to earth to offer to us.
This year's Advent devotional is shaped around our theme, and includes a scripture lesson, prompt for reflection, and a prayer for each day. We're invited to practice breath prayer, an ancient way of praying with the rhythm of our breathing to help us focus on God. In keeping with our theme, each booklet will come with a small globe stress ball to hold as we pray, to help us remember that "All Earth is Waiting" for Jesus in our lives.
During Advent, OUMC and other nearby churches will offer many activities in addition to services, including the following:
Sunday, November 30:
The
first Sunday in Advent, with the Hanging of the greens in the Sanctuary, followed by a chili luncheon hosted by the Sara Veal Circle in the fellowship hall. During the service, Sally Belangia and Holly Dunn Russell with share Oriental Christmas memories. At 6 p.m. there will be a fifth Sunday Christmas sing at Holts Chapel AMEZ Church on Kershaw Road.
Sunday, December 7:
During the
second Sunday in Advent, OUMC will sponsor Communion at the Gardens of Pamlico at 2 p.m. followed by a meditation and Christmas Singalong for all who wish to join.
Monday, December 8: The Community Youth Group meets at OUMC at 5:30 p.m. for a meal, games, and a gift-making session to create Christmas gifts for residents of the Gardens of Pamlico.
Friday, December 12:
During the Spirit of Christmas, the Pamlico Chorale performs Christmas carols and music in the OUMC Sanctuary at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 13:
The Old Theater's Children's Group presents a Live Nativity performance at 3:30 p.m. on the OUMC grounds, a traditional Christmas favorite!
Sunday, December 14:
On the
third Sunday in Advent, OUMC spreads Christmas cheer as its members, along with members of Pierce Chapel AMEZ and Holts Chapel AMEZ, go caroling throughout the village. Meet at the church at 3 p.m. for cider and cookies and break into groups. Suggestions of Oriental residents who would enjoy carols should be made to the OUMC office by December 10th, including name, address, and phone number.
Thursday, December 18:
The Pamlico Community Band performs its Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church.
Sunday, December 21:
During
the fourth Sunday in Advent, OUMC will have a no-rehearsal Christmas pageant during the service. Everyone is encouraged to bring their children, grandchildren, and neighbors to laugh and participate. Also on
December
21st, at 4 p.m. we will have a
Longest Night service in the sanctuary. In this powerful service, we acknowledge that sometimes we get lost in the holidays when we are dealing with grief and loss. Even so, God is with us. Come for a quiet time of prayer and worship.
Wednesday, December 24: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Communion and Carols at 7 p.m. in the OUMC sanctuary. The young and young-at-heart are welcome to wear pajamas.
Sunday, December 28:
OUMC and St. Thomas Episcopal Church hold a joint service of Lessons and Carols at 10:30 a.m. in the St. Thomas sanctuary, our traditional service for the first Sunday after Christmas.
