Advent and Christmas 2021

From the Methodist Church

Great joy for all the people

But the angel said to them,

“Do not be afraid; for see –
I am bringing you good news
of great joy for all the people…”

Luke 2:10 (NRSV)

During the past two years’ lockdowns, communities have become further disconnected and dispersed. People are tired and many are living in more difficult circumstances due to the ongoing pandemic. Internationally, many people live in danger; from threats of war to wildfires. But the message of Jesus’ birth at Christmas continues to be one of hope in our troubled times. God’s love is stronger than our fears. And as we aim to be an increasingly inclusive, evangelistic and justice-seeking Church, this is, importantly, a joyful message “for all the people”.

Recognising everyone’s fatigue and the Covid-19-related uncertainty that surrounds the approach of Christmas, this year the Methodist Church is encouraging congregations to simply reach out to their communities with the angel’s message – to near neighbours and to people living on the margins. To reconnect, and assure everyone that the Methodist Church is praying for them and cares about their community and concerns.

Click below for a weekly Advent Reflection

Written and read by Barbara Easton, Vice-President of the Methodist Conference.

Written and read by the Revd Mark Slaney, District Chair of the Scotland District

Written and read by the Revd Michaela Youngson, Assistant Secretary of the Conference

Written and read by Richard Oppong-Boateng, Young Evangelism Officer at the Methodist Church in Britain

Written and read by the Revd Sonia Hicks, President of the Methodist Conference