St. Paul's United Church of Christ © | 50 N. Main St., Manheim PA 17545
717.665.2447 | Email:stpaulsmanheim@ptd.net
50 N. Main Street
St. Paul's UCC
Manheim, PA
Advent
During Advent, which begins this year on Sunday, November 29, many churches and families use wreaths to symbolize watchfulness and increasing joy as Christmas approaches. Colors for the candles vary, with some traditions using blue (for hope or creation) and others preferring purple (for royalty, humility or penitence).
The four candles that each represent a week in Advent also signify hope, peace, joy and love. (The third candle is often pink.) In the center is the white Christ candle, representing Jesus as the light of the world. That candle is lit on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
The round, green Advent wreath has special meaning of its own. It symbolizes eternal life and the unending love of God, who sent his only Son to earth to die in our place.
- Church Art Online, December 2023
Decorating for Advent & Christmas
On Friday, December 4 @ 5 pm, we'll gather together for a Lasagna meal with all the fixings and afterwards decorate throughout the church to prepare for the Advent/Christmas season. All are invited to attend the merriment as we begin to celebrate the season together.
Breakfast with Santa - Saturday, December 5
Bring the kids to St. Paul's on Saturday, December 5 from 8:30-10 am and enjoy a FREE delicious pancake breakfast with sausage (all children receive a free goody bag.) The kids can spend time with Santa while you get your photos, enjoy some games and crafts, and peruse our free Christmas giveaway of hats, and scarves made by our own Women's Fellowship.
Christmas Eve Worship - Thursday, December 24:
- 7 pm Candlelight Worship w/lessons and carols of the season
- 11 pm Candlelight Worship w/lessons, carols and Holy Communion
Bring in the New Year with Pork & Sauerkraut!
On Sunday, January 3, St. Paul's will bring in the new year with a later worship service starting @ 11 am, followed by a Pork & Sauerkraut meal. Click here to RSVP. Following the meal, we'll de-decorate from the holidays and prepare for the season of Epiphany which begins on Wednessday, January 6.