Shirin McArthur
The Episcopal Church of the Apostles will observe the Christian season of Advent, the Christian liturgical New Year, with a series of three free evenings of supper and conversation on Finding God in All Things.
Using the news, media, art, music and daily life experiences, the program will invite participants to look through the lens of Ignatian (Jesuit) Spirituality and help us notice and name the ways in which God, or Divine Presence, is present and active.
The assumption behind these conversations is that our personal experiences can give us knowledge about God. According to the Rev. Debra Asis, Vicar at Church of the Apostles, “This is not about being religious. It is all about sharpening our senses to see how the Spirit of God is active in all of our lives.”
Everyone is welcome to participate in one or all of these evening programs, which will take place on Wednesday evenings, December 5, 12 and 18. Each evening begins with a simple supper at 5:30 p.m., followed at 6:00 p.m. by a presentation and discussion.
The program is free to attend. There is no need to register for these evenings; you can just show up. If you have questions, you may contact the church office at [email protected] or 520-544-9660.
Also, in preparation for Christmas, Church of the Apostles recognizes that the holidays are not always a joyous season. With this 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 20 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.
Also in December, Church of the Apostles is hosting the Winter Recital for Oro Valley’s Artistry Academy Music and Art. There will be four different free recitals at 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, December 15.
These recitals will feature around one hundred students of different skill levels and range in age from five years old to adults. The performance will include a variety of instruments such as piano, violin, guitar, ukulele, drums, flute and voice. Please stop in for any or all of these recitals to hear, celebrate and enjoy the musical accomplishments of these talented music students.
Church of the Apostles is located at 12111 N La Cholla Blvd. (just north of Tangerine) in Oro Valley. Visit them online at www.ovapostles.org.