Advent at UDLC

Advent is a season of waiting, hope, and preparation

Observing Advent

At UDLC we observe a seven-week season of Advent, creating extra space to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Through worship, Scripture, music, and shared practices, we attend to hope in the midst of uncertainty and light in the growing darkness. Advent invites us not to rush toward Christmas, but to linger—watching, waiting, and trusting that God is already at work, bringing new life into the world.

Large multigenerational group in festive Christmas sweaters posing around a decorated Christmas tree indoors

Advent Activities

  • Beer & Carols is exactly what it sounds like—a festive, family-friendly evening of singing Christmas carols and sharing good company at 7:00PM MaGerk’s in Fort Washington. This dine-and-donate event supports our youth trip to the ELCA Youth Gathering in 2027, making it a joyful way to celebrate the season while supporting our youth.

  • Our Youth Christmas Party is a fun, festive evening for middle and high school youth to celebrate the season together. With food, games, and holiday cheer, it’s a chance to relax, connect, and enjoy community during Advent. Contact Deborah Jodrey for more information.

  • After worship, we gather for lunch at church and then head out to share Christmas carols at local retirement communities. This beloved tradition is a joyful way to spread holiday cheer, connect across generations, and share the gift of music with our neighbors.

  • The Pick-Up Pageant is a joyful, all-ages retelling of the Christmas story—no rehearsal required. During this combined 10:00am service on the Sunday before Christmas Eve, everyone is invited to take part as we tell the story together and find ourselves gathered at the manger.

  • Christmas Eve is the heart of our celebration of Christ’s birth, with multiple worship services for all ages and styles. From family-friendly music to candlelight and carols, Christmas Eve offers meaningful ways to welcome the light of Christ. Learn more about Christmas Eve services.

  • Our Lessons & Carols service—a combined service at 10:00AM— weaves Scripture readings and beloved Christmas music into a rich and reflective act of worship. Through story and song, we hear again the promise of God’s coming into the world and rejoice in the good news of Christ’s birth.

Five friends pose for a festive Christmas selfie in a bar, wearing holiday sweaters, reindeer antlers, and a plush reindeer hat.