Christmas at Columbia
This Christmas season, we invite you to join us as we explore the wonder and mystery of the Advent story through our series, “Once Upon a Time: An Ancient Christian Hope.” In this series, we will look at Christmas through the lens of storytelling—a tale filled with unexpected twists, curious allies, and timeless themes of hope.
The story of Christmas is more than a simple narrative; it is the opening chapter to a much larger story that stretches across the entire Bible. Through Advent, we will trace how the Christmas story introduces the New Testament and echoes the ancient promises found in the Old Testament. This story of an unexpected heroine, divine prophecy, and even the involvement of Creation itself defies the conventions of storytelling from its time, reshaping how stories have been told for 2,000 years.
Our Advent series will reflect on what makes a story powerful and compelling, drawing inspiration from how the Bible tells one of the greatest stories ever told. As we explore the drama and tension in the Christmas story, we’ll discover that this isn’t just any story—it’s God’s story, woven with moments of danger, visions, and hope for all creation.
Christmas Events and Worship Services:
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Advent Wreath Making and Dinner: Prepare your heart for the Advent season through a shared meal and create an Advent Wreath to take home. Click here to register. Advent Wreath Kits: $10, Dinner: No cost. Wednesday, December 4, 5:45PM-7:30PM.
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Advent Worship Services: Join us for weekly worship during Advent as we walk through the unfolding drama of the Christmas story. Services will be held on Sundays at 9:00AM and 10:30AM, with a special focus on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Sundays, December 1, 8, 15 & 22.
- Christmas Concert & Advent Festival: The Christmas Concert is filled with dramatic readings, original art and poetry, beloved Christmas carols, and music from the choir. The Advent Festival includes refreshments, crafts, and a photo booth. Sunday, December 8. Concerts begin at 9:00AM and 10:30AM. Advent Festival activities available from 9:00AM-noon.
- Service of Remembrance: A time to gather with others in a spirit of worship to remember loved ones and to take comfort in the goodness and faithfulness of Immanuel, God with us. Sunday, December 15, 3:00PM.
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Christmas Eve Services:
- Family Service (4:00PM): An interactive service designed for families with young children. Includes a special telling of the Christmas story through a live nativity, music, and fun! The service concludes with singing Silent Night by glow-stick light.
- Traditional Candlelight Service (7:00PM): Celebrate the wonder of Christmas through traditional Christmas carols accompanied by the organ and adult choir. The service concludes with singing Silent Night by candlelight.
- Contemporary Candlelight Service (9:00PM): Celebrate the wonder of Christmas through traditional Christmas carols accompanied by the praise band. The service concludes with singing Silent Night by candlelight.
We look forward to celebrating the season with you and remembering together the ancient hope that came alive on that first Christmas.
FAQs
Physical Address
Nursery
The Nursery is located across the Gathering Area from the Sanctuary. The entrance is just beyond the doors to our Education Wing. We have a many caring and trained adults and teens ready to watch your little ones during our regular 9:00AM and 10:30AM Services on Sundays. The Nursery will also be available during the Service of Remembrance.
Sunday School
Sunday School for Pre-K through High School is offered during the 9:00AM service. Sunday School for Pre-K through 5th Grade is offered during the 10:30AM service as well. (Please note: there is no Sunday School on December 8 during the Christmas Concerts and Advent Festival). There are children’s “busy bags” available in the back of the Sanctuary with coloring pages and quiet toys.
What to Wear
Whether you like to get dressed up or stay casual, you will find someone who looks like you. Please come however you feel comfortable – whether that is in a three-piece suit or your favorite weekend jeans. You are welcome to dress like yourself at CPC.
Parking
Columbia has three parking lots and street parking available.
Handicapped parking is available in the main parking lot located off Columbia Ridge Drive.
The upper parking lot is located at St Helens Ave and Columbia Ridge Drive.
The lower parking lot is located at Columbia Ridge Drive and Butte Ave.
Additional Information
Assisted hearing devices are available at the Welcome Center in the Gathering Area.
Our Sanctuary is fully accessible for those who have mobility issues.
All words are available on the screens, but we also provide printed bulletins to help you follow along.
Coffee is available in the Gathering Area (and often times light snacks as well!).
Restrooms are available off the Gathering Area, just past the coffee.