Wildwood Presbyterian Church offered an “old country tradition”, during its annual 1^st Sunday of Advent fellowship gathering.  After a meal together, each person had an opportunity to walk an Advent Spiral Garden.  This garden recaptured, for our modern world, the Advent mood of serenity and quiet anticipation, “as the deepening outer darkness calls our inner light to emerge to shine ever more brightly.”  Individuals, children and families started in the dark of the night, prayerfully walking a labyrinth like spiral, made of pine and cedar limbs.  In the center, you pick up a little battery operated tea light candle.  Then spiral out, with the light of Christ, in your cupped hands.  Each person then walked into the Sanctuary for Christmas Carols, decorating and lighting of the Chrisman Tree.  We began the Season of Advent with the true meaning of the season.  It was a wonderful way for families and individuals to experience peace amid the chaos of the season.  We had a deeply spiritual reminder to slow our pace during the season of Advent, so we may receive the Spirit of Christ’s peace.  It was a prayer filled, multi-sensory, contemplative experience for all ages.   

Grace and Peace,
Rev. Robbie C. Phillips

Pastor of Wildwood Presbyterian Church

Newport, NC