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Advent and Renewal
This past week, from Monday to Wednesday, I had the blessing of joining my colleagues at a clergy conference at the Seaview Hotel in Galloway. Together, we shared in prayer, listened to thought-provoking presentations, and engaged in heartfelt discussions about the state of the church and our congregations. It was a time of worship and fellowship—a holy pause, where the Spirit of God moved among us, reminding us of the sacred work we are called to do and the strength we draw from one another.
As we continue in this sacred season of Advent, I am struck by how closely this time of renewal mirrors what Advent calls us to embrace. Advent is a season of waiting, watching, and preparing for the coming of Christ. It invites us to step away from the noise of the world, to reflect deeply on God’s presence in our lives, and to anticipate with hope the fulfillment of God’s promises. Just as the conference was a time to prep are our hearts and minds for ministry, Advent is God’s gift of renewal for us all—a time to realign ourselves with the rhythms of grace.
In the fellowship we shared, I was reminded of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). Advent is our season of waiting for the Lord, and in that waiting, we find strength and clarity. Like the early church in Acts 2:42, who devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and prayer, we, too, are called to gather, reflect, and prepare for Christ’s light to break into the world anew.
As we light the Advent candles each week, may we be reminded of our shared journey in faith. Just as we clergy found renewal in each other’s company, may we, as a church family, find renewed hope, peace, joy, and love in this season of waiting. Together, let us prepare our hearts for the One who is to come, trusting that God’s light will lead us forward.
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Faithfully yours,
Mo. Allison+
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