What is your favorite Christmas carol? Ask anyone this question and their face will almost certainly light up as they hear the tune of “Joy to the World” or "Hark the Herald” begin to play in their head. There is a beauty and joy expressed by these carols, which touches a deep longing in each person’s heart for something or someone to shine a light into the darkness we see all around us.

Our Advent series “The Carols of Christmas” will pair some of our best-loved Christmas carols with a bible reading that inspired it. Because these carols are so well known, it’s easy to sing along without paying much attention to the lyrics. It’s helpful to slow down and examine the words alongside the biblical text. Through song and scripture, this series aims to proclaim the gospel we have received in Jesus. As our hearts are lifted up in worship, we also pray that visitors will hear the message of hope that is the good news of great joy for all people.