Complete Service - December: Advent & Winter Solstice, Darkness & Light

In the Northern Hemisphere the season of Advent and Christmas line up with the winter solstice. Part of what we do at forest church gatherings is reconnect with the rhythms of the Earth and its seasons and consider how they intersect with our faith. We understand that the wisdom of the Creator is displayed in creation.

In this dark season, we are invited by the earth to embrace the gifts of darkness. We celebrate the coming of the Light, but we do not demonize the darkness. The earth, plants, trees, and creatures all understand darkness as essential to life. Darkness is a place of reprieve and rest, of mystery and trust. We need to receive the gifts of both darkness and light.