University Congregational Church Invites Wichita to a Season of Gratitude, Advent and Giving

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas can feel like the busiest of the year. They can also be some of the most meaningful. At University Congregational Church, this season is a time to slow down, give thanks and make room for hope, and everyone is welcome to share it.

A season of gratitude

Thanksgiving falls on November 26. Gratitude is at the heart of the congregation's faith, and the days around Thanksgiving are a natural time to reflect on the people, blessings and community that sustain us.

Advent begins November 29

The First Sunday of Advent is November 29. Advent is the four-week season of waiting and preparation before Christmas, and each Sunday centers on a theme: hope, peace, joy and love. It's a quieter rhythm that offers a welcome counterbalance to the rush of the holidays. Under the leadership of Senior Minister Rev. Paul Ellis Jackson, UCC's Advent worship invites reflection and connection. Music is a cherished part of the season, and new Music Director Mike Mays, who joined UCC in September, leads the church's musicians through the anthems and carols that carry the congregation toward Christmas. December also brings the UCC Christmas Party on Sunday, December 13, and a children's Christmas party after worship on Sunday, December 20.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is one of the most beautiful nights of the year in the UCC sanctuary, and it's a wonderful time to visit for the first time or bring family and friends home for the holidays. Watch ucchurch.org for this year's service times.

Giving that makes a difference

The holidays can be the hardest time of year for neighbors facing hunger, cold and high heating bills, and food banks across Kansas see demand rise as temperatures fall. UCC's commitment to local and global missions means the congregation looks for practical ways to help. This season's mission and outreach work includes:

• Operation Holiday Blanket Drive
• Meals for the InterFaith homeless shelter

Giving Tuesday is December 1, a global day of generosity that follows Thanksgiving weekend. It's a meaningful moment to support the ministries and mission partners that serve the community, and UCC accepts gifts online.

You're welcome here

Whether you're looking for a church home, returning after time away or simply want a peaceful place to spend part of the holidays, the UCC community would love to meet you. Services also stream live online for anyone who's traveling or prefers to worship from home.

Plan a visit

University Congregational Church is at 9209 E. 29th St. N. in Wichita. Sunday worship is at 10:30 am, with nursery and toddler care throughout. Call the church office at (316) 634-0430 or visit ucchurch.org for the full holiday schedule.