The Season of Advent

Advent is a season of anticipation and hope, expectation and preparation as we reflect on both the nativity and the anticipation of Christ’s second coming.

We remember the longing of Jews for a Messiah and our own longing for and need of forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward anticipating the second coming of Christ as the fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming.

Please check out the events and worship opportunities at Fountain City United Methodist Church during this special season of Advent.

Sunday Worship during Advent 

8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Service 
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service

Each Sunday during the Holy Season of Advent, December 1, 8, 15, 22, we will light the candles of the Advent wreath in preparation for the glorious birth of Jesus Christ. The four candles on the wreath represent the themes of joy, hope, peace, and love, the evergreens symbolize everlasting life, and the circle represents God’s love.

O come, O come, Immanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear.

WordPlayers Advent Production
Sleepers, Wake!

December 1 • 6 pm in the Sanctuary

The greatest story ever told takes on new life with this short play with music by Ethan Norman. Back by popular demand, Sleepers, Wake! brings you into the room with the characters of the biblical account of the coming of Christ as told in Luke 2, with gripping music, thought provoking historical context, and humor that will have you dancing in your seat. Prepare to celebrate Advent with a vibrant, fresh, and timeless telling of the Story that changes the world. (We will offer childcare for 4 years and under.)

Come To Bethlehem

December 8
Join us for our annual Christmas experience Come To Bethlehem on December 8 from 5:30-8 p.m. We will offer a free community dinner, music, fun for the young, fun for the old, fun for the family!

Live music, live nativity, live animals and did we say fun? Admittance will be timed entry allowing everyone to enjoy each station sufficiently. Admission is free but donations will be gladly accepted. This is a community favorite!

Registration opens November 1!

Christmas Concert

• December 15 at 3 p.m.
• December 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Come! Celebrate Christmas!
The Chancel Choir, Tollers, and Fountain Voices will present this year’s Christmas concerts on Sunday, December 15 at 3 p.m. and on Monday, December 16 at 7:30 p.m. This concert is a longstanding tradition, and one that is sure to bless all who attend. Our choirs and accompanists will be joined by a full orchestra, and our worship through music together will fill your hearts. Please, come! Celebrate Christmas in song. Childcare will be available.

The concert will be also televised at the following times:

• WBXX CH20 • December 24 • 7-8 p.m.
• WATE TV6 • December 25 • 6-7 a.m.
• WBIR TV10 • December 25 • 6-7 a.m.
• WBIR T V10 • December 25 • 12 -1 p.m.

Service of the Longest Night

December 22 • 6:30 p.m.

There are times when each of us succumb to our doubts, fears, exhaustion, grief- are simply generally overwhelmed. In the dark of night, those feelings can get the best of the love and compassion we know intrinsically are available to us through God’s grace. But by the winter solstice, the literal longest night of the year, we are pushed and shoved by the bustle of all the holiday things, whatever your things may be- to manage, source, prep, and smile through. This service is for all who long for a silent night. A little slice of peace. A moment of encouragement. Some time to ourselves in the presence of the Holy. In the words of Jesus:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” ~Matthew 11:28-30

Christmas Eve Worship Services 

December 24

• Family Nativity Service • 4 p.m. A family-friendly worship service in the Sanctuary.
• Contemporary Candlelight Service • 6:30 p.m. This candlelight Holy Communion service will be in the Gym and will include contemporary Christian music.
• Traditional Candlelight Service • 11 p.m. This candlelight Holy Communion service in the Sanctuary will include traditional hymns.