Advent

Welcome to #SouthwarkAdvent

Last year, instead of opening the doors to a cardboard calendar, we opened the very real doors to churches across our Diocese, and collectively told the nativity story. This year, we’re shining a light on the work of our Church of England schools, and sharing some of the ways children engage in Advent, Christmas and Christian faith in our diocese.

Take me to…

• Giving and Stewardship during Advent: A Christian Reflection
• Looking for your local church this Christmas?
• Follow the Star: Calm and Bright (Church of England Resources)
• Advent 2023

#SouthwarkAdvent – Christingles at Christ Church School, Purley

In our first video for this year’s #SouthwarkAdvent we visited Christ Church School in Purley to join their Year 1s as they made Christingles and learned about Jesus. Find out more in our blog

#SouthwarkAdvent – Steel pan at Immanuel and St Andrews School in Lambeth

In our second Advent film we visited Immanuel and St Andrew’s school to watch the children perform  “Carol of the Bells.” Find out more in this blog

Keep an eye out over December for our #SouthwarkAdvent blogs and films, and please do share with us what you’re doing in your parish this Advent either by email or by tagging us on social media.

If you missed last year’s #SouthwarkAdvent Calendar we’ll be sharing it again each day on our newly launched TikTok, and you can rewatch the full film here

Giving and Stewardship during Advent: A Christian Reflection

Advent, a season of anticipation and hope, as Christians prepare for the birth of Christ. Although Advent is often associated with spiritual preparation, it should also be an opportunity to reflect on our giving and stewardship. Advent calls us to examine what we treasure and to direct our resources toward what matters most. The nativity story is steeped in generosity: wise men bearing gifts, and Mary and Joseph opening their lives to a divine call.

The Giving Team at Southwark have pulled together useful resources to share and encourage a spirit of generosity and gratitude as we move through Advent, inspiring us to embrace the spirit of giving as we prepare to celebrate the arrival of Jesus and the joy we share together at Christmas.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  Matthew 6:21

Looking for your local church this Christmas?

We hope you will join your local church’s local Advent and Christmas events and services this year. If it’s your first time visiting a church, or first time in a long time, you will be very welcome! You can find answers for common questions here.

You can also find your local church on A Church Near You or, if you live in our Diocese, here on our website.