This new volume in the Feasting on the Word series provides an alternative to strict lectionary use for Advent, with six thematically-designed services for the four Sundays in Advent, as well as, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Four midweek services provide a supplemental study of John the Baptist to enhance the congregation's Advent experience.
The resources in this companion are a combination of material from existing Feasting on the Word volumes as well as newly written material. In keeping with other Feasting on the Word resources, the Advent Companion offers pastors focused resources for sermon preparation along with ready-to-use liturgies for a complete order of worship. All new material including hymn suggestions, Service of Hope and Healing, and children's sermon make this an invaluable resource for the Advent season.
“As Christmas’ cultural and commercial value increases ever more, the spiritual ground¬ing of Advent expectation becomes more and more essential. Taking time for personal reflection and family devotion becomes just another item on parishioners’ long to-do lists, often falling below endless shopping, wrapping, baking, and hosting. Sunday wor¬ship and Christmas Eve services are their primary opportunities to stop and consider the timeless truth and lasting promise of Advent, and pastors’ primary opportunity to touch hearts and lives during this special season.”
—from the introduction
David L. Bartlett is Professor of New Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. He is the author of What's Good about This News: Preaching the Gospel from Galatians and coeditor of the Westminster Bible Companion series.
Barbara Brown Taylor is Harry R. Butman Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Piedmont College in Piedmont, Georgia and Adjunct Professor of Christian Spirituality at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. She is the author of many books, including An Altar in the World. She is an at-large editor for The Christian Century and a sometime commentator on Georgia Public Radio.
Kimberly Bracken Long is Associate Professor of Worship and Coordinator of Worship Resources for Congregations at Columbia Theological Seminary. She is the author of The Worshiping Body: The Art of Leading Worship, published by Westminster John Knox Press.
