All were seen and heard, in a variety of forms, during our Family Advent Night this past Sunday. Families from Kairos, Bethesda (the congregation that shares our building), Tabula Rasa (the school that shares our building), and the community came to have fun together and prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth. From visiting with live animals like those that might have been in the stable, making Advent wreaths, painting large canvases (that now hang in the gathering space), creating nativities for home, and packing snack and birthday bags for our neighbors in need, all of the experiences and activities were designed to help families know and explore together the story of Jesus’ birth and to share the Good News of Jesus with others.
We asked several families who participated to share brief reflections about their experience…
The Family Advent Night was the perfect way to teach our boys more about the birth of Christ. From making the
nativity blocks to petting sheep and goats; from dressing up as shepherds and wise men to packing food for the hungry, each activity was intentionally designed to spark conversation with children about the true meaning of Christmas.
-Julianna Cagle
Our family had a lot of fun participating in the Family Advent Night. We especially enjoyed making pieces to add to our nativity set, as well as bags to hand out to those that might need them on the streets. They are both great reminders of what this season is really about – the birth of Jesus and the chance to serve and love others!
-Charlotte Marie Sturtz
Family Advent Night was a wonderful event. I am so glad the church takes time to recognize this season isn’t all about us and puts the emphasis on serving others through this time, as with the Happy Birthday Gift Bags and cards for neighbors.
-John Hackney
We loved Family Advent Night. Brooks enjoyed seeing the animals and loved putting things in the blessing and birthday bags. It was a great opportunity for us to take time and slow down as a family during this busy time of year.
-Lindsey Porter
As a family with very young children, it can be difficult to know how much of the “explaining” we do about the Christmas season is actually sinking in. We appreciate Kairos giving an opportunity to bring the Christmas story to life for our kids.
-Katie Tidwell
What a beautiful experience seeing activities of Advent enjoyed by members of both churches that worship in the Kairos building. Many members of Kairos and many members of the Bethesda congregation. Experiencing together the giving, creating, eating and sharing the joy of experiencing the wonder of the animals that God has created.
-Bonnie Wisdom
Special thanks to Nancy and Peter Langham, Cece and Don Webster, Jane Wilkinson, Maria Fejervary, and Jo and Jim Ditzel for generously giving their time and talents to this event. And extra thanks to Don for making the beautiful manger!