What is Advent?
Advent, from the Latin adventus meaning “coming,” is the four-week season when followers of Christ turn their hearts toward Jesus—both His first coming in Bethlehem and His promised return in glory.
While Christmas celebrates Jesus’ birth, Advent invites us to long for His return, when He will judge the world, renew all things, and bring God’s eternal peace. Historically, Christians didn’t celebrate Christmas until Christmas Day, making Advent feel counter-cultural—but that tension is a gift.
Advent draws our distracted hearts back to Jesus.
Advent gives hope of a world with no more pain or tears.
Advent reminds us who we are: a people called to live faithfully between the two comings of Christ.
We invite you to join us as together we watch and wait for Jesus this Advent!
Advent Devotional
Prepare your heart for the celebration of Christ’s birth and his promised return with our Advent Devotional Guide. Centered on the Lord’s Prayer, this family-friendly guide includes weekly devotions and the lighting of Advent wreath candles. Join us for our Parish Brunch on Sunday, November 22nd, to make your own Advent wreath and pick up your guide or download a copy below.
Advent Events
Advent Kickoff: Potluck Brunch, Advent Devotionals & Wreath-Making. Sunday, Nov 22, 9:15-10:15am
Join us as for the start of Advent. Signup to bring a dish, make your advent wreath and pick up your copy of this year’s Advent Devotional.
Sunday School, Sundays 9:15-10:15am, November 29th-December 20th
Join Rev. David Cumbie and Rev. Dr. Kendall Harmon for a special Advent teaching series on why the promises of Jesus’ return matters for how we follow Jesus today, and gives us hope for eternity.
All-Parish Campus Workday, Saturday, Dec 5
Newcomers’ Lunch, Sunday, Dec 6, 12:15pm
Youth Group Service Night, Sunday, Dec 6, 5:30-7pm
Greening of the Church, Saturday, Dec 12
Lessons and Carols, Sunday, Dec 13, 10:30am
Join us for this special service that tells the prophetic biblical story through scripture and song from Creation to Jesus birth.
Youth Christmas Party, Sunday, Dec 20, 5:30-7pm
Joy to the World!
There is something about Christmas that stirs in us a longing for joy, peace, and a world made right. At the heart of Christmas is the wonderful news that God has not left us on our own, but has come to us in the birth of His Son. We would love for you to join us at Holy Cross as we celebrate the joy of Jesus this Christmas!
Christmas Eve, December 24th
Men’s Turkey Fry, 7am-11am — Our annual opportunity for great fellowship and to help provide for families in need through partnership with Charleston County food pantry and Charleston County social services. Register now!
Christmas Pageant with Communion, 4pm — Kids of all ages are invited to help us tell the story of Jesus’ birth. Arrive at 3:15pm to receive a costume.
**Nursery care provided for 4 and under.
Christmas Eve Service with Communion, 7pm — Main Sanctuary (no childcare)
Candlelight Service with Communion, 11pm — Historic Chapel (no childcare)
Christmas Services
Christmas Day, December 25th, Communion Service, 10:30am
Historic Chapel (no childcare provided)
First Sunday of Christmas, December 28th
8am (Historic Chapel)
10:30am (Main Sanctuary) (Nursery for 4 and under only)
Second Sunday of Christmas, January 3rd
8am (Historic Chapel)
10:30am (Main Sanctuary) (Nursery for 4 and under only)