Advent Devotional

During Advent we have a tendency to jump to the story of Jesus’ birth. We get excited about a miraculous baby born in a manger as God with us, but so much happened before that. God planned for that first Christmas at the moment of creation. Every moment following includes the stories of God’s faithful people who led us to Christmas.


This year during Advent we will journey through the story of God’s faithfulness from our most faithful told through the Jesse Tree. The Jesse Tree takes its name from Isaiah 11:1, “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesse was the father of King David, and from David’s family line came the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ. Each day, we will remember a person or story from the Bible that is a part of this great family tree of faith leading us all the way to the birth of Christ. Join our Elders, Deacons, Staff, Members and Pastor as we tell the stories of our faith.


We hope the Jesse Tree, along with our stories, memories and experiences, helps us see that Jesus’ birth was not an isolated miracle but the fulfilment of a promise woven through generations of faithful people—ordinary and faithful, flawed and hopeful—who trusted in God’s love and grace. Enjoy this Advent season as we prepare with the faithful for our Savior’s birth!


Pick up a devotional at the church, download below or in the weekly Soundings or read daily on Facebook. 


Download the Advent Devotional


Preparing for Christmas

Join us as we prepare for Christmas through one or all of these events.  Contact the church office for details about joining us as we prepare for Jesus birth through connecting, serving and growing!

  • reverse advent calendar

    Help those in need this Advent by collecting one item of food each day to give to the St Mary's Food Bank. Bring your food to church on Christmas Eve or by January 5.

  • Jesse Tree Ornaments

    The Jesse Tree tells the story of all the faithful people who led the way until Jesus' birth. Receive a set of ornaments, one for each day, made with the art created for Easter 2025 by the congregation.


    Contact the church office to receive ornaments 

  • November 23  |  9:30 a.m.

    Sanctuary

    Help decorate the church for Advent through an interactive lessons and carols worship service.

  • December 4  |  7 p.m.

    Sanctuary

    The Christmas season is hard when our hearts are hurting. You are not alone. This is a gentle, contemplative service for all of us carrying pain, grief, or overwhelming feelings of loss this season. We have all gone through a lot this year. Join us to name all that we are carrying and receive comfort and joy from our Savior.

  • December 6  |  10 a.m. - 12 noon

    Mission del Sol Courtyard

    Join us as we prepare for Advent outdoors with fun crafts, games, a visit with Santa, and brunch at the Noel Cafe. Free event.

  • December 11, & 18  |  7 p.m.

    Sanctuary

    Gather for a thirty minute service of song, prayer and scripture as we prepare ourselves for Christmas. Join in person or online.

  • December 14  |  5 - 7 p.m.

    Meet in front of Mission Hall

    Join us to sing carols in our neighborhood followed by cookies and hot chocolate.