You’ve probably noticed how different the light is in the early evening since the change back to Central Standard Time on Nov. 1. For me, it heightens the sense that we’re drawing nearer the Winter Solstice as the days grow shorter and darkness falls earlier.

This time of year, it can help to find a way of closing the day, giving God thanks, and seeking light in the midst of the coming night. Vespers, or Evening Prayer, meets that need. Vespers comes from the Greek word hespera and the Latin word vesperus, meaning “evening.” It has roots in the monastic Liturgy of the Hours, a daily series of short prayer services done at different times of the day.

This year, our prerecorded service will be held on Facebook Premiere starting at 4:30 p.m. on the Sundays of Advent (Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, 13, and 20), and we’ll be using a Vespers format. Readings will come from the Bible, including the Psalms, but also poetry and other sources to help us reflect on how God is showing up in daily life in Advent in the midst of the pandemic.

The service begins at sundown and invites all of us, young and old, to seek the presence of God within as we prepare our hearts for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus.

For those of you who can’t join us at 4:30 p.m., the worship video will also be posted on our YouTube channel for viewing at any time.

–Rev. Rick King