By Rev. Joe Zarro, Interim Senior Minister
It’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but I’m wishing you a “Happy New Year” because this Sunday marks the beginning of a new Christian liturgical year. Advent has many meanings, and one of them is “beginning.” It is the beginning of our sacred calendar, and it’s also the beginning of a lot of exciting Advent and Christmas themed activities. Check out the bridge for the many opportunities – from Caroling to Cookie Swaps and festive Christmas Eve Services.
But for those looking for a place to slow down, reflect, and read in all the holiday hustle (and beyond) I’m offering an opportunity to share a book together and join in conversation. The book is “A Beautiful Year” by Diana Bass Butler (a respected scholar of religion and author). I will have hard copies available at worship on Sunday, and it is easily found online or “wherever books are sold.” Whether you are able to come to discussion group or not, I think it’s a valuable devotional practice to have this book, which follows the liturgical year with reflections for every season.
If you would like to join us for discussion, I have a budding group of people interested or signed up for online discussion, including Rev. Sam Lovett, the pastor of Newman Church in East Providence. We will be meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursdays, Dec. 4, 11 and 18 via Zoom for about an hour. The link will be shared with participants by email, so please do RSVP to Rev. Joe at joe@bccucc.org. On Dec. 4 we will discuss the Introduction to the book, the introduction to Advent, and the first devotional “Wrinkly Time” (only 18 pages total).
Again, you don’t have to attend on Thursdays to read the book with us – I’m happy to get coffee or talk on the phone, or you can read on your own and deepen your understanding and connection to the liturgical year. Most UCC churches follow the big points of the year – Advent, Lent, Easter, Pentecost – but there’s so much to it, and it can be such a sacred rhythm. Butler Bass wrote something that engages the present moment, and our current social context, but in a way that is devotional, optimistic, pastoral and loving. I hope you will join us in reading!