Is peace really possible?

Not just in terms of ending interpersonal/intersocietal conflict, but in what the Hebrews called Shalom…mutual wellbeing based in the recognition of the worth and dignity of each human being and the whole of Creation.

And if it is possible, how are we ever supposed to get there? Are we too far gone to really bring about the Beloved Community?

This week at New Wineskins, we’ll continue our celebration of (r)Advent by exploring the theme of Peace, what it really looks like, and what communities like ours might do to achieve it. We’ll hear what author, scholar, and activist Lisa Sharon Harper and the late John Lewis have to say as they talk about what they believe to be God’s intent for the world and what it takes to turn it from pipe dream into reality.

Please join us this Sunday, Nov. 28, in our New Wineskins Virtual Theology Pub as we examine the hope inherent for all people when we actively pursue climate justice as a radical act of reorientation toward love incarnate.

Don’t forget to bring your (r)Advent candles to light as we continue the journey toward Love incarnate.

Week 2 Candle Lighting Liturgy:

I light two candles this week
to illuminate peace.
For as God lights both gentle dawn
and a slash of lightning strike,
we affirm all the ways we seek peace –

kind persuasion with eye contact,
and a justice march with big signs,
a silent vigil of prayer and fasting,
and the gift of food, toys, or dignity
for the most vulnerable,
our quiet visits to therapist or recovery group,
and loud demands to change gun laws.

We light two candles so we will listen
to the angel mandate of ‘Peace on Earth.’

For ordinary, available, gentle and brave,
are the hope and peace of Advent.

A Simple Advent Candle Lighting for Home or Church based on Howard Thurman’s “I will Light Candles this Christmas” and “This is Christmas” from The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations by Maren C. Tirabassi

6:00pm EST: Happy Half-Hour (informal meet & greet time)
6:30pm EST: Presentation & conversation begins