The first Sunday of Advent is right around the corner on Nov. 29. Many churches have had to shift plans as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Illinois. We are compiling some great ideas and resources for Advent and Christmas at a time when in-person gatherings are limited or not possible. We will continue to add to this page in the coming weeks. If you have or know of a great resource you think we should add, email us.

Creative Ideas for Worship

• Watch a Zoom webinar with a group of NIC pastors sharing ideas for Advent and Christmas worship and activities. Some of the ideas include take-home Advent kits, a large interactive, walk-up outdoor advent wreath, decorating an evergreen tree with ornaments outside the church, ringing in Christmas with sleigh bells and a bonfire, virtual cookie making, virtual caroling, and using glow sticks in place of candles for outdoor services.
• Local churches can order customizable banners, signs, invitation cards and postcards for Advent from United Methodist Communications. Click here for resources.

Webinars/Studies/Books

• The Promise of Advent webinar series - hosted by Adam Hamilton
• Incarnation Advent Study by Adam Hamilton
• “Hope: An Advent Journey," by Rev. Olu Brown
• "Almost Christmas" study for youth and adults