Advent 2025 at Morristown United Methodist Church

Advent Begins November 30

Advent Worship Series: What do you fear?

Luke’s Gospel begins the story of Jesus with this opening line: “In the time of Herod…” This detail may seem minor to modern readers; however, it reveals layers of information about the fearful world Jesus entered, one filled with rampant oppression, economic disparity, uncertainty, and instability. A world not so unlike our own. And yet, throughout the stories of Christ’s birth, we hear the whispers of angels delivering a surprising message: “Do not fear.” When Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi are each called into God’s redemptive story, they do not deny their fears—they move through them. They ask questions, hold fast to courage, trust in good news, and say, “Here I am, Lord.” When we find ourselves in fearful times, can we acknowledge our fears while also insisting on hope?

This Advent series takes seriously the angels’ message and trusts that Christ’s birth truly is good news of great joy for all people. We will look closely at the fear and terror looming in the background during the time of King Herod and invite us to consider the fears we hold now. Fear can divide and paralyze us and even be used as a tool for oppression. But what if we formed a different relationship with fear? Can we acknowledge fear without letting it rule us? Might we catalyze our fears into love and action? What if naming our fears helps us see more clearly how God is breaking in and where God is at work?

As you journey through this season, may your hope become gritty and resilient. May you remember: hope that trembles is still hope. This season, let us insist on hope and trust that good news is greater than fear.

We will gather for worship at 10:30am each Sunday to celebrate Advent together, growing our hope week by week, like a lantern whose light cannot be contained.

First Sunday of Advent – November 30
In the time of Herod, we long for God to break in

Second Sunday of Advent – December 7
When we’re running out of hope, God is at work

Third Sunday of Advent – December 14
Even in our fear, we are called forward

Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 21
When you’re afraid, give me your hand

Christmas Eve – December 24
Good news is louder than fear

Christmas Eve Services
3:00pm Family Service
7:30pm Candlelight Service