The Journey: An Advent Online Retreat
Mondays in December, 7:15 pm via Zoom

As December approaches and the pace of holiday planning intensifies, Emmanuel Episcopal Church is offering the community a different kind of preparation: time set aside for reflection, meaning, and spiritual grounding.

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Beginning Monday, December 1 at 7:15 PM, Emmanuel will host a four-week online Advent retreat titled “The Journey: Making Christmas Christmas.” The 45-minute sessions run from 7:15–8:00 PM on December 1, 8, 15, and 22. The series will be facilitated by Faith Hodgkins and Julie Bernardin, longtime parish leaders known for their thoughtful and engaging facilitation style.

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The retreat draws from The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem (Tenth Anniversary Edition) by Adam Hamilton—an accessible resource exploring the historical, cultural, and spiritual context of Mary and Joseph’s path to Bethlehem. While the book is encouraged as a companion, it is not required to participate.

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On December 8, Emmanuel welcomes The Rev. Manny Faria, former Priest-in-Charge of Emmanuel, as a special guest presenter who will share his experience traveling to Bethlehem.

Each week includes scripture, reflection, music, gentle conversation, and prayer. Suggested readings for Week One are Luke 1:36–56 and Chapter 4 of The Journey.

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“Our hope is to help people slow down and reconnect with what this season truly offers,” said organizer Faith Hodgkins. “We often move through Advent in the rush toward Christmas. This is an opportunity to gently pause, reflect, and rediscover the sacred story beneath the season.”

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Please let the office know if you will be attending.