“This week’s advent candle is the peace candle. Drawing on the peace of the dark winter stillness and the peace that is promised by the coming sun/son and the peace that comes from the faith in the oil that burned for 8 nights, we join together spiritually to focus our eyes on the peace that comes even when there is darkness.  Not all peace comes in sunlight and joy and mirth.  Peace comes in the darkness of  solstice. When the world grows quiet and the light pauses, we remember that nothing needs to be forced.  Even the sun knows when to wait.  Even hope begins in stillness.”

“In this month of hope with our advent candles of joy, love, peace, community and hope, this is a reminder that not all stories have readily available happy endings.  There is sadness and brokenness that is highlighted and that may not ever have resolution. In this instance, it is not our place or character as a community to look away.  We are obligated as UUs and people of faith to provide compassion, seek justice, and care for people. We are obligated to be a people of hope.   We are also obligated to be in constant conversation about what our chalice and beacon is calling us to do. What is love calling us to do in this moment?”