Some of the most common words we hear in the Christmas story are the words “be not be afraid.” The angles speak these words to Mary, Joseph, and to wide-eyed Shepherds watching their flocks by night.
How do we respond to this repeated refrain when we find ourselves living in a fearful world? How do we hear the angels’ message of good news for all people, when we ourselves are so often afraid?
This advent we will light candles, sing carols, and pray for Christ’s coming because we believe God entered a frightened world to bring good news. We will acknowledge our fear, just like the angels did, while also holding onto hope for what the world could be. So, join us this Advent season, for the angels bring good news of great joy.
Worship is on Sundays at 10:15 a.m.
At-Home Resources
Looking for ways to enrich your advent season? We will have printed devotionals for adults and advent calendars for kids! Both will available for pick up on the First Sunday of Advent, November 30. Unable to get to church, but interested in one of these resources? Email us at connect@secondpres.org and we will mail you a copy.
Memorial Poinsettias
As we prepare to celebrate the Christmas season, we invite you to help decorate the Sanctuary by ordering a poinsettia in honor or in memory of a loved one by Wednesday, December 17.
Each poinsettia will add beauty to our worship space throughout December, creating a warm and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Your dedication can be a meaningful way to remember a special person or celebrate a significant occasion during this season! Dedications will be included in the worship slides beginning on December 21.
Join the Choir for Christmas!
Mid-November through December 21
Do you love Christmas music? Join the choir as they prepare for the annual Christmas Music Sunday celebration! We will have a group of over 45 musicians preparing for this amazing day, and we would love to include you. The choir meets from 6:45-7:45 on Wednesday evenings in the choir room (second floor, behind the sanctuary).
Those who wish to participate will need to join rehearsal on Wednesday, December 17, for a rehearsal in the sanctuary with the orchestra. In addition to this dress rehearsal, participants will need to join choir practice at least two other evenings out of the following: November 12, November 19, December 3, or December 10. Questions? Email our Music Director Sharee Thompson.
Advent Season Events
Journey to Bethlehem
Friday, December 5 | 7-9 p.m.
Saturday, December 6 | 5-7 p.m.
All are invited to an immersive walk-through experience of the Christmas story, including shepherds, magi, a census, and the manger. This is a family friendly event to usher in the advent season! Read more.
If you would like to help with the cast, the crew, or with hospitality, please sign up using the links provided! We would love to journey to Bethlehem with you.
20s & 30s Christmas Party
Friday, December 12 | 7 p.m. | Boulevard Brewery
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join Pastor Sarah for a young adult Christmas party. Bring a white elephant gift (max of $15), wear your favorite Christmas sweater, and join us for provided snacks at Boulevard Brewery!
Parents’ Morning Out
Saturday, December 13 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Children 5th grade and younger are invited to join us for a morning of fun with crafts, games, and breakfast! We will play games, work on Christmas crafts, and burn off some energy. Parents, take a break and use the time to relax or take care of some holiday shopping! RSVP
Children’s Christmas Pageant
Sunday, December 14 | 10:15 a.m.
Children ages 4 years and older are invited to participate in our beloved, annual Christmas Pageant. This joyful tradition allows kids to experience the Christmas story in a fun and meaningful way. Rehearsals will be on Sunday, December 7 and 14 from 9-10 a.m. before the big performance during worship at 10:15.
Cocoa & Carols
Sunday, December 14 | After Worship
After worship, join us for a hot chocolate bar and Christmas carols in Westminster Hall! We will have cups of cocoa to decorate with all your favorite toppings. While you sip, enjoy the sound of our Christmas carols and get to know your neighbor!
Longest Night Worship Service
Tuesday, December 16 | 6:30 p.m. | Sanctuary
The Christmas season is often one marked with joy and celebration. However, for many, grief, loss, and tragedy stand in stark contrast to the festive joy of advent. Knowing that, the Longest Night service is designed to carve out space for quiet reflection as we go to God in prayer, song and contemplation. Join Pastor Sarah Speed in the sanctuary for a creative service with candle lighting, written prayer, scripture study and music. Join us, in the quiet sanctuary, and sing for those who still pray, “O come, O come, Emmanuel.”
Christmas Music Sunday
Sunday, December 21 | 10:15 a.m.
Join us for Christmas Music Sunday, featuring a special performance by the Second Motet Choir and a full orchestra. The Christmas program will include beautiful seasonal music, enhanced by the talents of Second members and members of the Kansas City Symphony. This festive concert will fill the Sanctuary with joyous and reflective music, celebrating Christ’s birth in a powerful and memorable way.
Christmas Eve
Tuesday, December 24 | 4:30 & 6:00 p.m.
Join us for a beautiful, holy and joyful Christmas Eve as we echo the angels in their celebration! At Second, we have two Christmas Eve services.
The 4:30 p.m. service is a family service designed with children in mind. There is no sermon at this service, as we work to share the good news of this evening with the youngest among us. We will sing, tell stories and embrace wiggles!
The 6 p.m. service is a traditional Christmas Eve service with the choir, a homily, and candle lighting.
Regardless of your age, you are welcome and embraced at either service. We will have support for children in both services, and printed copies of the sermon at 6 p.m. for those who are hard of hearing. We hope to see you on Christmas Eve as we sing “Joy to the World!”
Epiphany & Star Word Service
Sunday, January 4 | 10:15 a.m.
Join us for our Epiphany service, celebrating the revelation of God’s light through the Magi. As part of the tradition, we will pass out Star Words—small, star-shaped cards with words to reflect on throughout the year. Let these words guide you on your spiritual journey in the coming year. For this service, we welcome the Rev. Tom Are, Jr. as a guest preacher!