Presence Not Appearance

A pastoral Christmas message from Rev. Lee Davis offering hope, peace, and God’s presence amid life’s challenges for Sts. MM&M Episcopal Church and beyond.

Advent isn’t about pretending everything is fine. It’s about remembering what’s true when fear gets loud: Emmanuel—God with us. And that presence gives us courage

Gaudete Sunday is not just about feeling brighter. It’s about deciding what kind of Church we will be. Because the Magnificat is clear: God lifts up the lowly.

Advent reminds us that courage isn’t loud: God meets fear with presence—Emmanuel—and calls ordinary people to take the next faithful step, together, in hope.

Advent 3 invites a joy that’s honest and grounded—rooted in Isaiah’s hope, John’s questions, and Mary’s song of a God who lifts the lowly.

Last week, we talked about not sleepwalking through this season. This week, I think Advent presses us a little further: Where do I need to make room in our hearts?

Discover how the second Sunday of Advent invites us to move from simply staying spiritually awake to practicing repentance as making room for God and others.

The City of Coral Springs thanks our parish for our recent contributions.

A pastoral message and prayer for thanksgiving 2025