Friends,
Well. Advent clearly did not check with our calendar. It’s arriving the morning after the Christmas Market… which feels exactly like the sort of thing God would do.
There are two things on my mind this week, and I’d love you to be part of both.
First: Saturday – Mercato delle Stelle
On Saturday the place will be buzzing – lights, music, coffee, pastries, kids, neighbours, a bit of beautiful chaos. If you’ve got a friend or neighbour who’s been “church-curious” but not quite ready for Sunday, or looking for community in an often isolating season, this is an easy way in. Come wander, shop a little, eat something good, people-watch, and just enjoy being here. If all you manage is a quick espresso and a wave before heading off, that’s enough.
Then: Sunday – Advent 1
On Sunday morning we’ll turn the volume down a little. You’ll see a new icon at the front: St Francis and his novices around a small fire in the dark. No big drama, just a few people keeping company with a bit of warmth and light they didn’t create.
That’s how I’m thinking about Advent this year. Not a season where we suddenly become organised, peaceful versions of ourselves, but a season where we admit that life is still noisy and unfinished, and we sit down together anyway. We let the “little fire” of God’s presence do what it does – quietly, steadily, often without us noticing until later.
I’m really glad to be walking into this season with you.
See you Sunday. I’ll save you a seat.
Alex+