December 11, 2025
As we move through the second week of Advent, many of us have been sitting with the theme of Peace. Not the kind that comes from everything going smoothly, but the kind that shows up in ordinary moments and reminds us that God is near.
Jasmine Duckworth’s recent post on Disability and Faith captures this so well. She asked members of the Our Voices Matter group what “peace at Christmas” means to them, and their answers were honest and down-to-earth: Jesus, candles, quiet, family, neighbours, and the people who support them. Their voices bring us back to the heart of this season.
Looking Ahead to Joy
This Sunday we turn toward the next theme in Advent: Joy. Peace doesn’t end—it makes room for joy to grow. As we enter that new week, look for those glimpses of joy around you. They often begin small but have a way of lifting our whole spirit.
Celebrating the Journey of Advent
All month long, you’ll find weekly scripture readings on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, reflections on the Disability & Faith Forum, and our daily Advent Prayer Guide. These are simple ways for each of us to slow our pace and notice how God is at work around us and within us.
Save the Date: Join Us for Our Advent Service
We also want to remind you of our Karis Advent Service on December 19, 2025 at 1:30 PM (EST)/12:30 PM (CST). The service will be held online so everybody can join together as we celebrate the season. To register click here.
As we wrap up the week of peace and get ready to step into joy, take a moment to think about where you’ve seen both in your days. Maybe peace showed up in a quiet moment when you needed it. Maybe joy came through someone’s laughter or a simple act of kindness.
Bring one small example of peace or joy to your next team meeting. It’s a good way to encourage each other and pay attention to how God speaks through the people and moments around us.
Bryan Gillmore, Organizational and Spiritual Life Specialist