Advent 2021

ADVENT

2021

"Heaven and Earth will Pass Away, KPB Stevens, gouache on paper, 2020."

CONTENTS

Welcome & Introduction

Advent One

Advent Two

Advent Three

Advent Four

Bonus Features

Young Adult Retreat

WELCOME Welcome to Advent and an opportunity to look at this familiar season with fresh eyes. I’m glad you’re here with us.

If you are like me, this time of year can be a lot. While the world wants us to be surrounded in joy, we can find ourselves teetering between nostalgia and melancholy. I find myself looking at the calendar and feeling reflective about the year: thinking through the ways I feel older, but not necessarily wiser.

One thing I’ve learned though, is that while I may be experiencing some of this end of the year accomplishment accounting, we are actually at the beginning of the church calendar when we come to Advent.

So, I want to welcome you again, now, to a new year. Not to gloss over that which we’ve endured in this past year, but let’s look forward in this season with new eyes to see, new ears to hear, and a heart that can bring us closer to what God is calling us to through our Baptismal vows.

This year we will be utilizing our liturgical texts, along with opportunities to engage Rev. Jed Dearing's film club, Films in the Wilderness, different ways to connect to God in the week, and a recipe to try.

This advent Zine is full of opportunities to engage this season with your family, for yourself, within community, and with the world.

We invite you to join us. Engage, ask, and grow alongside of us.

Advent Blessings, The DSO Formation Team

FILMS IN THE WILDERNESS Movie theaters have often been described as churches. A large room where one goes to sit quietly and bask in grandeur, pay attention to signs and symbols, be transported to other times and places, an opportunity to be awakened, inspired or challenged. Movie going in and of itself can be a ritual act not far off from attending church. Some of us arrive early to sit quietly; others never make it before the opening scene, but always search for their favorite seat as if it were the family pew. A precious few remain seated all the way through the closing credits; undoubtedly the same group as those who remain in place for the postlude following Holy Eucharist. Then comes the spill out into the lobby discussing the emotions, insights, and critiques generated by the movie, not far off from coffee hour conversations filled with gratefulness for a favorite hymn, questions of the liturgy or reactions to the sermon.

This Advent I invite you to incorporate your movie watching as a spiritual exercise by joining in with the Advent Film Club; watching the weekly movie selection, reading the lectionary text for the coming Sunday and engaging them in conversation in one of the many ways offered in this guide.

Like a spiritual practice I encourage you to take the time to watch the film of the week in a darkened room, free of distraction, with your phone powered down and laptop set aside. Approach the movie as a possibility for a prayerful encounter with God, a way to grow in empathy for others and a chance to have your perspective on the Gospel passages enlivened through this visual medium.

Anglican theologian David Brown advocates for the potential sacramentality of the whole created order, writing that spiritual grace is to be found in the outward and visible signs of art. As Episcopalians we hold that the holy is intertwined in the world and includes great works of art from those who may not identify as Christian or even religious. The “sacramentality of deep experience through moments of disclosure, contemplation and paradox” is God speaking to us in and through a film. What might God disclose to you through a contemplative viewing of a movie?

Film critic Roger Ebert wrote “For me, the movies are like a machine that generates empathy. If it’s a great movie, it lets you understand a little bit more about what it’s like to be a different gender, a different race, a different age, a different economic class, a different nationality, a different profession, different hopes, aspirations, dreams and fears. It helps us to identify with the people who are sharing this journey with us. And that, to me, is the most noble thing that good movies can do.” In this polarized climate, we could all use help generating empathy as we seek to do the baptismal work of striving for justice and peace while treating all persons with dignity. Perhaps this Advent, the stories, images and music bound together in these movies will be a machine of God working to soften our hardened hearts towards the needs of our community and those beyond?

I’m grateful for the gifts of the myriad artists who contribute to the production of a single film. I’m excited to view the stories they felt called to bring to the screen and then to engage with one another to contemplate how the films speak to us as a voice in the wilderness, preparing the way.

Watching with you, Rev. Jed Dearing, Priest in Residence at St. Francis Springboro

FILMS IN THE WILDERNESS What’s inside?

Reflections on Film & Faith Weekly prompts including…

A lectionary selection for the coming Sunday.

A film selection that connects with the theme(s) of Advent.

Reflection questions for personal or corporate use.

Creative space for you to respond to the Gospel & film however you are inspired.

Bonus Features Faith & Film Book Recommendations Additional Advent Themed Movie Recommendations Connect Further Rev. Karl Stevens & Rev. Jed Dearing will be hosting Films in the Wilderness, a weekly companion podcast discussing each film and the gospel lesson with a special guest. New episodes release every Friday during Advent beginning on Friday, December 3. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, & Stitcher. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/films-in-the-wilderness/id1551833936 Join the Diocesan Film Club discussion on Zoom every Thursday during Advent (Dec 2, 9, 16, 23) at 7:00pm. Hosted by Rev. Jed Dearing & Rev. Karl Stevens, this will be a lively discussion engaging both the film selection and the Lectionary lesson appointed for the coming Sunday.

Each week is a self-contained conversation, meaning you can join for one week or as many as you’d like. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85117259208 Thursday, December 2 [Luke 21:25-36] Pain & Glory Thursday, December 9 [Luke 3:1-6] Wild Rose Thursday, December 16 [Zephaniah 3:14-20] Happiest Season Thursday, December 23 [Hebrews 10:5-10] The Green Knight

All films are readily available to stream for free or rent at a low cost. Many libraries offer robust blu-ray and dvd collections that include these selected films.

ADVENT ONE Luke 21:25-36

“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,.

On the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near.

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

ADVENT ONE Film Club

Film: Pain and Glory (2019) Director Pedro Almovodar

Free w/Starz, available to rent on all major streaming platforms. Runtime: 1h54m.

Antonio Banderas plays Salvador Mallo, a filmmaker in the twilight of his career, remembering his life: his mother, his lovers, the actors he worked with. The sixties in a small village in Valencia, the eighties in Madrid, the present, when he feels an immeasurable emptiness, facing his mortality, the incapability of continuing filming, the impossibility of separating creation from his own life. “How do you come back from the dead? For Salvador, the answer comes in fits and starts, in the burnished images of his childhood, in an old lover’s passion, in the power of art. It also comes in his love for his mother, Jacinta, who as an older woman nearing death, voices distaste for autobiographical fiction, telling Salvador he wasn’t a good son. Salvador listens, and he apologizes. And then he takes the messiness, the vibrancy and the sensuous pleasures of life as he remembers it and turns his pain — and hers — into glory.” Manohla Dargis

Reflection & Discussion Observation(s) How did the film make you feel?

What aspect of the film did you most engage with? What will you remember?

What does it make you think about?

Interpretation(s) What are the key themes of the film?

How is the theme explored and emphasized?

What is the worldview offered by this film?

What resonates with you? Why? Connection(s) Where do the themes of the film intersect with the gospel reading?

How do they enlighten each other?

How do they counter each other?

Action(s) In light of these selections and your reflection, what response might God want from you? From the church?

Create Space for you to further react to the reflection questions, to doodle, draw, paint, write a poem or compose a song in response to this week’s selections.

ADVENT ONE Pain and Glory (2019) Director Pedro Almovodar

ADVENT ONE "Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near.

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near." Luke 21:29-31

In these colder months when the sun sets early and the chill never fully dissipates, I have trouble remembering that the summer will come again. I forget that longer days will come back, the sun with shine on our faces and the Earth will sprout again.

Martin Luther writes, "Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree." Join me in this first week of Advent in the rebellious act of hope by planting something today in your window sill that will be stunning in the future.

Check out these resources to start your own window sill garden, including ways to start with your produce scraps: www.farmersalmanac.com/regrow-vegetables www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/containers/winter-windowsill-garden www.joegardener.com/podcast/130-winter-sowing

Canticle R: A Song of True Motherhood Our Advent Canticles Julian of Norwich can be found in Enriching God chose to be our mother in all things * and so made the foundation of his work, Our Worship most humbly and most pure, in the Virgin’s womb.

God, the perfect wisdom of all, * arrayed himself in this humble place.

Christ came in our poor flesh * to share a mother’s care.

Our mothers bear us for pain and for death; * our true mother, Jesus, bears us for joy and endless life.

Christ carried us within him in love and travail, * until the full time of his passion.

And when all was completed and he had carried us so for joy, * still all this could not satisfy the power of his wonderful love.

All that we owe is redeemed in truly loving God, * for the love of Christ works in us; Christ is the one whom we love.

A D V E N T O N E Baking Together: Peasant bread,

Alexandra's Kitchen INGREDIENTS ·4 cups (512 g) unbleached all-purpose or bread flour alexandracooks.com ·2 teaspoons (10 g) kosher salt ·2 cups (454 g) lukewarm water (made by mixing 1.5 cups cold water with 0.5 cup boiling water) ·2 teaspoons (8 g) sugar ·2 teaspoons (8 g) instant yeast, I love SAF Instant Yeast, see notes below ·room temperature butter, about 2 tablespoons INSTRUCTIONS 1.Mixing the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast (I love SAF Instant Yeast). Add the water. Mix until the flour is absorbed. (If you are using active dry yeast, see notes below.)

2.Let it rise. Cover bowl with a tea towel or plastic wrap and set aside in a warm spot to rise for at least an hour. (In the winter or if you are letting the bread rise in a cool place, it might take as long as two hours to rise.) This is how to create a slightly warm spot for your bread to rise in: Turn the oven on at any temperature (350ºF or so) for one minute, then turn it off. Note: Do not allow the oven to get up to 300ºF, for example, and then heat at that setting for 1 minute — this will be too hot. Just let the oven preheat for a total of 1 minute — it likely won’t get above 100ºF. The goal is to just create a slightly warm environment for the bread.

3.Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Grease two 1-qt or 1.5-qt oven-safe bowls (see notes below) with about a tablespoon of butter each. Using two forks, punch down your dough, scraping it from the sides of the bowl, which it will be clinging to. As you scrape it down try to pull the dough toward the center (see video below for guidance). You want to loosen the dough entirely from the sides of the bowl, and you want to make sure you’ve punched it down. Then, take your two forks and divide the dough into two equal portions — eye the center of the mass of dough, and starting from the center and working out, pull the dough apart with the two forks. Then scoop up each half and place into your prepared bowls. This part can be a little messy — the dough is very wet and will slip all over the place. Using small forks or forks with short tines makes this easier — my small salad forks work best; my dinner forks make it harder. It’s best to scoop it up fast and plop it in the bowl in one fell swoop. Some people like to use flexible, plastic dough scrapers for this step.

4.Let the dough rise again for about 20 to 30 minutes on the countertop near the oven (or near a warm spot) or until it has risen to just below or above (depending on what size bowl you are using) the top of the bowls. (Note: Do not do the warm-oven trick for the second rise, and do not cover your bowls for the second rise. Simply set your bowls on top of your oven, so that they are in a warm spot. Twenty minutes in this spot usually is enough for my loaves.)

5.Bake it. Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 375º and bake for 15 to 17 minutes longer.

Remove from the oven and turn the loaves onto cooling racks. If you’ve greased the bowls well, the loaves should fall right out onto the cooling racks. If the loaves look a little pale and soft when you’ve turned them out onto your cooling racks, place the loaves into the oven (outside of their bowls) and let them bake for about 5 minutes longer. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before cutting.

ADVENT TWO

Luke 3:1-6

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness.

He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”

ADVENT TWO Film Club

Film: Wild Rose (2018) Director Tom Harper Free w/Hulu & Kanopy, available to rent on all major streaming platforms. Runtime: 3 hrs.

A young Scottish singer from Galsgow, Rose-Lynn Harlan, dreams of making it as a country artist in Nashville after being released from prison. The film takes an interest in the daily lives of bluecollar workers and in the trade-offs of pursuing dreams. “At first gingerly, and then with real intent, the film puts an elbow into the hot waters of motherhood, of female sacrifice, of what becomes of our sense of self and right to personal nourishment. There, the film — and specifically a beautifully paired Julie Walters and Jessie Buckley — shines, swelling around the issues it kneads without hitting upon any easy answers. For the journey, it turns out, is not one of the 3,900 miles from Glasgow to Nashville, but the distance between a mother and daughter, and for Rose-Lynn, the journey to find herself.”

Terri White

Reflection & Discussion Observation(s) How did the film make you feel?

What aspect of the film did you most engage with? What will you remember?

What does it make you think about?

Interpretation(s) What are the key themes of the film?

How is the theme explored and emphasized?

What is the worldview offered by this film?

What resonates with you? Why? Connection(s) Where do the themes of the film intersect with the gospel reading?

How do they enlighten each other?

How do they counter each other?

Action(s) In light of these selections and your reflection, what response might God want from you? From the church?

Create Space for you to further react to the reflection questions, to doodle, draw, paint, write a poem or compose a song in response to this week’s selections.

ADVENT TWO Film: Wild Rose (2018) Director Tom Harper

ADVENT TWO There is no right or wrong way to meditate. The most important thing that you can do is to bring a passive attitude – allowing, not forcing. Experiencing, not controlling. Don’t worry about meditating the "right" way – just let it happen however it happens without worrying about the outcome.

It is normal to have many extraneous thoughts going through your mind throughout the process of meditation – that’s okay! Just acknowledge the thoughts and bring your attention back to the phrase you will be repeating. It doesn’t mean you are doing anything wrong.

Before we begin, think about your own personal spirituality. Think about what gives you meaning. You will need to select a word or a short phrase (up to about 5 words) that is meaningful and can be repeated within the time it takes to exhale.

You might wish to repeat part of a prayer. If nature holds deep meaning for you, you might want to repeat a word or phrase relating to nature or the earth. Your meaningful phrase can relate to love, happiness, family, faith....or anything that is important to you. For example, you could use "Peace," or "God is Love," or "Hallowed be Thy Name."

Take a moment now to choose a meaningful word or short phrase. Keep your meaningful phrase in mind, and the meditation will let you know when to use it. https://vimeo.com/645055058

Canticle D: A Song of the Wilderness Isaiah 35:1-7,10 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, * the desert shall rejoice and blossom; It shall blossom abundantly, * and rejoice with joy and singing.

They shall see the glory of the Lord, * the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weary hands, * and make firm the feeble knees.

Say to the anxious, “Be strong, do not fear! * Here is your God, coming with judgment to save you.”

Then shall the eyes of the blind be opened, * and the ears of the deaf be unstopped.

Then shall the lame leap like a deer, * and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness * and streams in the desert; The burning sand shall become a pool * and the thirsty ground, springs of water.

The ransomed of God shall return with singing, * with everlasting joy upon their heads. Joy and gladness shall be theirs, * and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

BAKING TOGETHER: Oatmeal Peanut butter Energy Bars Samantha Skaggs, fivehearthome.com

ADVENT TWO

INGREDIENTS 1 cup nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, cashews, almonds, etc.

1 cup old-fashioned oats ½ cup raisins, OR dried cranberries 2 tablespoons chia seeds ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of ground nutmeg ½ cup peanut butter, OR alternative nut butter ¼ cup honey 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract INSTRUCTIONS 1. In the bowl of a large food processor, pulse the nuts until finely ground (but stop before they start turning to nut butter!). Add the oats, raisins, chia seeds, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the nuts; pulse five (1-second) pulses to combine. Add the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla to the mixture; pulse until all of the ingredients are well blended, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.

2. Scrape the mixture into an 8- by 8-inch baking dish; firmly press into an even layer. Cover and chill for two hours or until firm. Use a knife to slice into bars. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes 1. These Energy Bars are no-bake and do not harden. Keeping them chilled will firm them up, but they must be stored in and served from the fridge. They are not intended to be portable.

2. Recipe may be doubled and pressed into a 9- by 13-inch dish.

Zephaniah 3:14-20 Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel!

Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgments against you, he has turned away your enemies. The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear disaster no more. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak.

"Whatever You Bind on Earth, KPB Stevens, gouache on paper, 2020."

ADVENT THREE

I will deal with all your oppressors at that time.

And I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. At that time I will bring you home, at the time when I gather you; for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes, says the Lord.

The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival. I will remove disaster from you, so that you will not bear reproach for it.

Film: Happiest Season (2020) Director Clea DuVall Free w/Hulu. Runtime: 2 hrs.

Observation(s) How did the film make you feel?

What aspect of the film did you most engage with?

What will you remember?

What does it make you think about?

Interpretation(s) What are the key themes of the film?

How is the theme explored and emphasized?

What is the worldview offered by this film?

What resonates with you? Why?

"Harper (Mackenzie Davis) and Abby (Kristen Stewart) have a perfect relationship — loving, patient, understanding — but the stakes are about to get higher, and their devotion is about to be put to the test: Abby is planning on asking Harper to marry her on Christmas Day, and Harper has invited Abby home to spend the holidays with her family — who think both women are straight. It’s an embarrassment of holiday rom-com riches, a lively, attractive paean to impressing and caring for the ones you love which grapples with the impossible expectations of perfection and happiness — all in the name of a good Christmas. It’s more complicated than just saying the right words at the right time: the glee of the holidays, here, must be earned." Ella Kemp

Connection(s) Where do the themes of the film intersect with the lectionary reading?

How do they enlighten each other?

How do they counter each other?

Action(s) In light of these selections and your reflection, what response might God want from you? From the church?

Create Space for you to further react to the reflection questions, to doodle, draw, paint, write a poem or compose a song in response to this week’s selections.

ADVENT THREE Film Club

ADVENT THREE Film: Happiest Season (2020) Director Clea DuVall

ADVENT THREE As the days get colder, there are few things better than sitting with a hot cup coffee, tea, or cocoa. The feeling of that first, almost too hot, sip as it warms your body from the inside out is a wonderful reminder that joy takes many forms. If you’re looking for a family friendly activity, use the following recipe from Alton Brown to make your own hot cocoa mix. Guaranteed to be better than anything from a box or tin. I hope you give it a try and find joy in one of the simple things in life: a nice cup of hot cocoa made with those you love.

While you're at it, why not reflect on the other parts of your life that bring you joy? I find that naming our joys and sharing them out loud can help remind us that, even in the midst of a pandemic, we still have reasons to smile. https://altonbrown.com/recipes/hot-cocoa-mix/

2 1/2 cups nonfat dry milk powder 2 cups powdered sugar 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon fine salt (see note) Pinch ground cayenne pepper, optional, plus more to taste Hot water, for serving

1. Heat oven to 300ºF. Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Spread milk powder in a thin, even layer the prepared sheet pan and bake until golden brown and crumbly, about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Odds are good the milk powder will be stuck together in lumps and if that's the case, simply pulse it in a food processor a few times. (Toasting the milk powder is technically optional but personally, I think the flavor is worth it.)

3. Transfer the toasted and cooled milk powder to an airtight plastic container and add the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, fine salt, and cayenne, if using. Cover and shake to thoroughly combine. Tightly sealed, the powder will keep in the pantry.

4. For one serving, heat 3/4 cup (6 fluid ounces or 175 ml) of water to a boil, then remove from the heat. Spoon 1/4 cup of the cocoa mix into a heavy mug and whisk in 1/4 cup (2 ounces or 60 ml) of the water to create a paste. Slowly whisk in the remaining hot water.

Canticle N : A Song of God’s Love 1 John 4:7-11 Beloved, let us love one another, * for love is of God. Whoever does not love does not know God, * for God is Love.

In this the love of God was revealed among us, * that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through Jesus Christ.

In this is love, not that we loved God but that God loved us * and sent his Son that sins might be forgiven.

Beloved, since God loved us so much, * we ought also to love one another.

For if we love one another, God abides in us, * and God’s love will be perfected in us.

BAKING TOGETHER: Vanilla Marshmallows Alton Brown, Altonbrown.com

ADVENT THREE

Ingredients 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar 2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored powdered gelatin (3 packets) 1 cup cold water, divided, plus a little extra if needed 1 1/2 cups plus 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Instructions 1. Sift together the cornstarch and confectioners’ sugar into a medium bowl.

2. Lay out a clean kitchen towel on the counter. Place a 9-by-13-inch metal baking pan on the towel, then spray generously with nonstick oil spray. Thoroughly dust with one-third of the cornstarch-sugar mixture over the bottom and sides of the pan, then shake and tap the pan to make sure the mixture coats then pan evenly. Return any remaining mixture to the bowl for later use. Stash the baking pan within arm’s reach.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, pour in 1/2 cup of the water, then sprinkle the gelatin into an even layer over the surface. Let sit for 5 minutes to bloom; if, after 5 minutes, you still see dry gelatin, drizzle on just enough extra water to barely cover. Let that sit for another minute or two to hydrate.

4. Meanwhile, combine the remaining 1/2 cup water, the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and the salt in a 2-quart saucepan. Place over medium-high heat, cover, and allow to cook until the mixture begins to simmer around the edges of the pot, about 3 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a digital instant-read thermometer, approximately 8 more minutes. If you notice sugar crystals forming on the sides of the pot, use a wet pastry brush to wipe down and dissolve the crystals. When the mixture reaches the target temp, immediately remove from the heat.

5. Turn the mixer to low speed and, while it is running, slowly pour the sugar syrup down the side of the bowl into the gelatin mixture. Do not pour it directly on the whisk. Once you have added all of the syrup, gradually increase the speed to high. Continue to whip until the mixture becomes very thick and the bowl feels just lukewarm to the touch, 13 to 14 minutes in my kitchen. Add the vanilla, then continue to whisk for another 30 seconds to incorporate. Reduce the speed to stir and gradually lift the mixer head to dislodge most of the marshmallow from the whisk. Turn the mixer off.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, using a lightly oiled spatula to spread it evenly. The marshmallow will set up quickly, so don’t dawdle. Dust the top with enough of the remaining sugar and cornstarch mixture to lightly cover. Reserve the rest for later. Allow the marshmallows to sit uncovered for at least 3 hours, but overnight would be better.

7. Use a small offset spatula to loosen the marshmallow from the sides of the pan. Turn the marshmallows out onto a cutting board, dust with a little more of the sugar-cornstarch mixture, and, using a pizza cutter or sharp knife rubbed with oil, cut into 24 squares. (You can also cut them into 1/2-inch squares if you’d like mini marshmallows for hot cocoa.) Once cut, lightly dust all sides of each marshmallow with the additional cornstarch-sugar mixture.

Consume right away or store in an airtight container for weeks, if not months.

Hebrews 10:5-10 Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure.

Then I said, ‘See, God, I have come to do your will, O God’ (in the scroll of the book it is written of me).”

When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law),

then he added, “See, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

ADVENT FOUR

Film: The Green Knight (2021) Director David Lowery Available to rent on all major streaming platforms. Runtime: 2h10m.

There were few subjects as popular in Middle English literature as knights and beheading, which accounts for the enduring success of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: a 14-century chivalric romance concerning the fortunes of King Arthur’s young nephew and the mysterious figure who challenges him to a friendly Yuletide game. Scholars have bickered over the myriad potential interpretations of the anonymous poem for centuries, and now comes a new cinematic interpretation from David Lowery. The journey to seek his destiny becomes Gawain’s noble quest, taking him across the windswept British isles where he encounters all manner of friends and foes. Outside the bustle of Camelot, a wild land awaits the hapless young lord, and while his naivety once seemed sweet, in the world beyond the castle walls it’s a threat to his survival.

Lowery never equivocates at any point along Sir Gawain’s journey from the Round Table to the forest citadel where his fate awaits. Instead, he pulls tight on the tangled knots that have bound this saga to our collective imagination for so many centuries, and braids them all into a timeless fantasy about the struggle to make sense of an irreconcilable world. Hypnotic from its fiery start to its gut-punch of a finale, “The Green Knight” might ride into theaters on 600 years’ worth of unsettled history, but Lowery makes it feel brand new by re-saddling it as a personal story about someone who’s just trying to become the kind of man he can live with, even if it kills him. David Ehrlich Observation(s) How did the film make you feel?

What aspect of the film did you most engage with? What will you remember?

What does it make you think about?

Interpretation(s) What are the key themes of the film?

How is the theme explored and emphasized?

What is the worldview offered by this film?

What resonates with you? Why? Connection(s) Where do the themes of the film intersect with the lectionary reading?

How do they enlighten each other?

How do they counter each other?

Action(s) In light of these selections and your reflection, what response might God want from you? From the church?

Create Space for you to further react to the reflection questions, to doodle, draw, paint, write a poem or compose a song in response to this week’s selections.

ADVENT FOUR Film Club

ADVENT FOUR Film: The Green Knight (2021) Dir. David Lowery

ADVENT FOUR In seminary, my peers and I would often talk about the folks in our lives who were "stretcher bearers." Those in our lives who would help to carry us when we needed it, those who could lift us from the depths of turmoil and challenges. Those who could bring us deep peace.

This week in reflection of the final week of Advent and the purple candle on the advent wreath signifying peace, think of the people in your life that bring peace. The people who are in your cloud of witnesses of God's love, and those who guide and encourage you.

Take time to write a letter to the dear ones who have guided you to where you are, who have helped deepen your faith, and who have made your world a more peacefilled place.

Canticle Q: A Song of Christ’s Goodness Anselm of Canterbury Jesus, as a mother you gather your people to you; * you are gentle with us as a mother with her children.

Often you weep over our sins and our pride, * tenderly you draw us from hatred and judgment.

You comfort us in sorrow and bind up our wounds, * in sickness you nurse us and with pure milk you feed us.

Jesus, by your dying, we are born to new life; * by your anguish and labor we come forth in joy.

Despair turns to hope through your sweet goodness; * through your gentleness, we find comfort in fear.

Your warmth gives life to the dead, * your touch makes sinners righteous.

Lord Jesus, in your mercy, heal us; * in your love and tenderness, remake us.

In your compassion, bring grace and forgiveness, * for the beauty of heaven, may your love prepare us.

BAKING TOGETHER: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bark TheKitchenIsMyPlayground.com

ADVENT FOUR

INGREDIENTS: For the Cookie Dough: 1 c. unsalted butter, at room temperature To Assemble the Bark: 3/4 c. granulated sugar 1 (20 oz.) package chocolate almond bark 3/4 c. brown sugar coating 1/4 c. water About 2 oz. white or milk chocolate candy 1 tsp. vanilla extract melts, for decorative drizzle 2 c. all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. shortening {optional; this helps the 1/2 tsp. salt melted candy melts drizzle more easily} 1 c. (about 6 oz.) mini chocolate chips INSTRUCTIONS: 1. FOR THE COOKIE DOUGH: In a large bowl combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla; beat until creamy. Beat in water. Combine flour and salt. Add flour mixture to butter/sugar mixture; mix well. Stir in chocolate chips. Set aside.

2. TO ASSEMBLE THE BARK: Line a 10x15” jelly roll pan with parchment paper or wax paper.

Set aside.

3. Chop ½ of the package of chocolate almond bark coating into small pieces and place in a bowl. Melt the almond bark in the microwave per its package directions (typically in 30 to 45 second intervals, stirring in between).

4. Pour melted chocolate onto the prepared parchment-lined pan. Use an offset spatula (or butter knife) to spread the chocolate into a thin even layer, spreading to within about 1/2inch of the sides of the pan. Refrigerate pan for about 20 minutes to fully set the bottom chocolate layer.

5. Once the bottom chocolate layer is hardened and set, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the chocolate. Use your fingers and the palm of your hand to gently spread the cookie dough into an even layer, covering the entire surface of the chocolate.

6. Chop the remaining ½ package of chocolate almond bark coating into small pieces and place in a bowl. Melt the almond bark in the microwave per its package directions (typically in 30 to 45 second intervals, stirring in between).

7. Pour melted chocolate onto the cookie dough layer. Use an offset spatula (or butter knife) to spread the chocolate into a thin even layer, spreading to cover the entire surface of the cookie dough.

8. FOR THE DECORATIVE DRIZZLE: To decorate with drizzled candy coating, place candy melts and shortening {if using} in a zip-top sandwich bag on a microwave safe dish. Heat in 20 second intervals until melted, kneading after each heating. Using scissors, snip a very tiny hole in one corner of the bag. The smaller your cut, the smaller the thickness of the drizzle.

Drizzle the melted candy coating back and forth over the bark.

9. Let stand until firm, or refrigerate pan for about 15 minutes to speed the process along.

Once set, cut or break into small pieces. Store bark in the refrigerator, or freeze .

BONUS FEATURES

Book Recommendations How to Watch a Movie by David Thomson Movies as Prayers: How Films Voice Our Deepest Longings by Josh Larsen Signs & Symbols in Christian Art by George Ferguson

Advent Family Film Recommendations Week One: The Breadwinner (2017) dir. Nora Twomey: Now available to rent streaming on all major services The Breadwinner uses animation to capture the horror of children living under strife in a way that is true to their struggle, while also honoring their imaginative resilience. When her father is arrested by the Taliban, a young girl must pose as a boy in order to provide food for her mother, sister, and baby brother, who all share a two-room space in Kabul. This simple, sorrowful story, drawn from Deborah Ellis’ children’s novel, unfolds with an animated artistry that is nothing short of majestic. Josh Larsen Week Two: Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) Travis Knight: Now available to rent streaming on all major services “Memories are powerful things,” Kubo is told early on, and that sentiment is soon brought to life by a truly unforgettable journey. Kubo mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning wild tales with origami. When he accidentally summons an evil spirit seeking vengeance, Kubo is forced to go on a quest to solve the mystery of his fallen samurai father and his mystical weaponry, as well as discover his own magical powers. David Ehrlich Week Three: Sing Street (2016) dir. John Carney: Free to stream on Hoopla & Vudu. Now available to rent on all major streaming services.

A boy growing up in Dublin during the 1980s escapes his strained family life by starting a band to impress the mysterious girl he likes in this joy filled musical."Sing Street" has a good and generous heart, there are openly crowd-pleasing scenes. The triumphs are satisfying, the barriers are frustrating and even heartbreaking, the sweeping connections, when they come, work on that primal level that gets underneath the skin, vibrates on a certain frequency. Sheila O’Malley Week Four: Ponyo (2008) dir. Hayao Miyazaki: Free to stream on HBOMax During a forbidden excursion to see the surface world, a goldfish princess encounters a human boy named Sosuke, who gives her the name Ponyo. Ponyo longs to become human, and as her friendship with Sosuke grows, she becomes more humanlike. Offering respite from the adult perspective without denying it, Miyazaki's films invite viewers into exalted states of innocence. For parents, they’re practically field guides. We may bring our children out to sea or into the woods and say, “Isn’t this wonderful?” But in order to think so, in order to be moved, the kids must explore those precious places themselves, at least enough to accumulate their own experiences—fantastical perhaps, but also mundane—and later remember and yearn for and reforge them by way of imagination. Jonathan Kiefer

YOUNG ADULT RETREAT December 17-18, 2021

RETREAT

Friday Arrival/Check-in Dinner Opening session Welcome, go over schedule of events Introduce the “Green Knight” Watch film Second Session Conversation about film and text A look ahead at the retreat and our time together General fellowship with people gathered at Procter

Saturday Breakfast Morning Session & listening time Conversation Time to engage in Advent activities Lunch Afternoon Session

Closing conversations Worship