St. John’s Episcopal Church
207 Albany Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401

Advent and Christmas Seasons

The Christian year begins with the Season of Advent, the season of preparation for the coming of Christ’s light at Christmas.

Advent is designed to be a time apart, a season of peace and hope in which we listen deeply to God’s call in our hearts and ready ourselves for the birth of Love Incarnate in and amongst us all – Emanuel, God is with us. The season has a variety of activities each year. Some are more traditional and offer space for learning and reflection. Others are more contemporary and offer opportunities to gather and celebrate the joy of our lives.

Then, we celebrate the Christmas season that begins on the eve of December 25 and lasts for 12 days through the eve of the Epiphany on January 6.

Come and join us for the Seasons of Advent and Christmas this year.

Advent wreath making 2024   Advent Wreath Making
Sunday, November 24, after worship
Stay after worship on November 24 and create an Advent Wreath for the coming season. Advent wreaths are a beautiful way to bring your Christian faith into your home and offer a space of quiet prayer during a busy season as we all prepare for the coming of Christ.
Advent I: Sunday, December 1 at 10:00 am
Shared worship service with Holy Cross + Santa Cruz
and Joint Congregational Forum

This will be a bilingual service at 10am at Holy Cross + Santa Cruz. After the service we will have a forum facilitated by the Canons Alissa Newton and Victor Conrado. We encourage your participation. Consider bringing a dish or dessert to share for the lunch reception.
  Advent II: Sunday, December 8 at 10:00 am
The Rev. Joe Campo
Godly Play 10:00 am
Today is also Commitment Sunday. Please bring your pledge forms!
Advent III: Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 am
The Rev. Tyler Jones
Choir rehearsal after worship.
Greening of the church Advent IV: Sunday, December 22 at 10:00 am
Rev. Dcn. Sue Bonsteel, Officiant
Greening of the Church! It’s all hands on deck on December 22. Stay after worship as we decorate with greenery and place our candles around our worship space to prepare for Christmas.
  December 24: Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve Festive Choral Worship, 8:00 pm
The Rev. Tyler Jones

Christmas Eve Festive Choral Worship is when we pull out all the stops – a hymn-filled joyful celebration of Christ’s birth, including Silent Night by candlelight. Followed by a dessert reception! Carol singing and music recital begins at 7:30 pm.