Shirin McArthur
Episcopal Church of the Apostles will host a number of free events designed to help participants more fully experience the upcoming seasons of Advent and Christmas.
The church will begin December with Choral Evensong, held at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 3. Directed by Dr. Elliot Jones, choral director of the Arizona Repertory Singers, the Apostles choir and several ARS singers will sing an ancient Christian hymn Phos hilaron, psalms, prayers and responses. The congregation will join in singing elements of the service, which is timed to coincide with sunset and focus attention on Christ as the light of the world.
Continuing its Advent focus, Church of the Apostles will host an Advent Retreat day from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16. The goal of this retreat is to focus attention on the return of light and the renewal of hope, love, joy and peace in our troubled world. The retreat day will include brief talks, opportunities for meditation or Centering Prayer and/or labyrinth walks and time spent engaging these four Advent themes. There is no cost for this event, but donations will be accepted. Participants are asked to preregister for this event by calling the church at 520-544-9660 or emailing [email protected] and to bring a brown bag lunch.
Church of the Apostles recognizes that Christmas is not always a joyous season for everyone. With this fact in mind, they are again offering A Quiet Christmas Holy Eucharist for anyone who feels grief or sadness, is searching for healing, or would simply prefer a Quiet Christmas experience during the busy Christmas season. Quiet Christmas will take place on Thursday, December 21 at 6:00 p.m. It is a free offering, open to everyone, and will be especially meaningful if you find yourself experiencing pain or longing for quiet at a time when society tells us we should be merry and joyful.
Finally, the church will host two Christmas Eve services and a service on Christmas Day. The first Christmas Eve service, at 5:00 p.m. on December 24, will include a children’s pageant. The second service, at 9:00 p.m., will be a candlelight service. The service on Christmas Day, December 25, will be held at 9:30 a.m.
All events will take place at Church of the Apostles, which is located at 12111 N. La Cholla Boulevard in Oro Valley. Should you have any questions about these events, please call 520-544-9660, Monday through Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. or email [email protected].