The Virgin Mary

Womanist theology is a form of reflection that places the religious and moral perspectives of women at the center of its method. It intentionally engages theological problems such as class, gender, and race. Furthermore, womanist theology intends to reimagine old religious language and symbols to give them depth, texture, and relevance for today.

Womanist theology is a helpful corrective for the Season of Advent, which has traditionally focused on male characters. For example, Joseph and Zechariah, the shepherds, the Magi, and even the angels, are said to be male. These characters quickly become the focus of most Advent storytelling. However, to be clear, without women, there is no Season of Advent. This sermon series will therefore highlight women in the biblical account throughout the life of Jesus, primarily during the days leading up to his birth. It will elevate their experiences and perspectives, thereby shining Advent-light into darkness that is often neglected in Christian imagination.

Longing for Hope

The season of Advent is filled with longing. We long for rest; we long for special times with loved ones; we long for the re-enactment of traditions; we long. Isaiah’s prophecies about the nature and work of messiah ache with longing. Isaiah longs for a messiah who enacts justice, sets people free, and creates a new humanity out of the old. During this season of Advent, our sermon series will encourage this ancient longing by pondering prophetic poems about messiah, which will warm our hearts with hope and prepare us to sing, once again, “Merry Christmas!”