Advent is one of the great seasons of the Christian calendar. It is a season when we can look at the brokenness and fallenness of the world around us yet testify boldly and confidently, "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). As we prepare to celebrate the first Advent-the first coming of Christ to this world—we also look forward to his second and final Advent, when he will come in glory to make all things once again good and very good.

Over these next weeks, we will journey together through the four great Advent themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This year, that's November 30. As we consider and meditate on these themes of Advent, we join in celebration with the universal church for these next four Sundays. There is something deeply significant about a local faith community spending intentional time together in the same scriptures for a season. There is something even more significant about a family of local churches across a district, a region, or even the globe journeying through this season intentionally together.

Thank you for being part of this adventure. Just as he did at Bethlehem, may Christ--the very hope of all the earth--come to each of us and all of us in a way that changes everything.

- REV. DAVID GILMOUR
BRITISH ISLES