As with all Advent services at St. mark, they are preceded with a fellowship dinner. With many of the people coming from work, this provides an excellent time to shift gears and prepare one's self for worship.
As one can see, some more than others, REALLY like to enjoy their meal!!
Throughout the "Hanging of the Greens" service, Pastor Rod leads the congregation through the Christmas story.
As the service progresses, everyone takes part in decorating the sanctuary.
Many of the decorations remind us about God and what Christ's coming has provided for us.
For example, the wreaths are circular, representing no beginning or ending, the same as our eternal God! In addition, the tree, along with the other greenery, represent living things, the same as the eternal life that God has provided through his son, Jesus.
Finally, at the conclusion of the service, the sanctuary lights are dimmed and the tree's lights are lit, which represent Christ being the "light of the world."
