Advent and Christmas are vibrant celebrations at La Jolla UMC, and we are excited to celebrate this season once again. We believe that the annual reminder to live with Christ at the center of our lives is essential to our spiritual identity.
In addition to Christmas Eve Worship, a number of other Advent and Christmas activities may be found below. All Worship services are in-person, and can also be found online at lajollaunitedmethodist.org/online.
- The Journey – Advent Worship Series
- Annual Christmas Workshop – December 6th at 10am
- Community Christmas Concert – December 14th at 4pm
- Blue Christmas Service – December 21st at 3:00pm
- Christmas Eve Family Christmas Pageant – December 24th at 5pm
- Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols – December 24th at 7pm
The Journey
Advent is the season in which the church leans forward—toward incarnation, toward hope, toward a God who chooses to dwell with ordinary people in ordinary places. Based on Adam Hamilton’s book, The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem, this series invites us to enter the familiar story as more than observers, rather as companions who walk the road with Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, the shepherds, and the wise men.
- November 30: “The Annunciation to Mary of Nazareth” – Luke 1:26-38
- December 7: “Disappointment, Doubt, and a Dream” – Matthew 1:18-24
- December 14: “Mary’s Visit with Elizabeth” – Luke 1:39-45
- December 21: “The Journey to Bethlehem” – Luke 2:1-7
Annual Christmas Workshop
The 2025 edition of our Christmas Workshop will take place Saturday, December 6th from 10 am until 1 pm. Intended for children 1st through 6th grade, this annual event helps starts the season and helps kids make meaningful Christmas presents for loved ones!
Community Christmas Concert
Our annual Community Christmas Concert will be held on Sunday, December 14th at 4pm and features our Chancel Choir, Dorian Bells, orchestra, and soloists. We center this musical extravaganza around the theme, “Love Is the Reason Why.” There is no admission cost, though a free-will offering will be taken during the concert. What an incredible way to get into the Christmas Spirit!
Blue Christmas Service
We understand that the Christmas season is not a joyous celebration for everyone. For those who wrestle with grief and sadness during this time, we offer a special worship service in partnership with our friends at Pacific Beach UMC and held in their Sanctuary at 1561 Thomas Ave. The service will be held the afternoon of Sunday, December 21st at 3:00pm.
Christmas Eve Family Christmas Pageant
Enjoy a fun family-friendly worship service beginning at 5pm featuring the Christmas story, lots of carols, and creative pageantry and costumes!
Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols
Our traditional Christmas Eve service will be online and in person at 7pm in our beautiful Sanctuary. The Christmas story will be told through Scripture and song, and conclude with candle lighting.