Advent at FUMC

During Advent, we prepare for and anticipate the coming of Christ. We remember the longing of Jews for a Messiah and our own longing for and need of forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward, anticipating the second coming of Christ as the fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming.

We hope you'll join us throughout Advent at FUMC!

Calendar

We're excited to see you this Advent season! Click on each line below to read more.

Wednesdays: Chapel Services
On Wednesdays December 3, 10, and 17, a service of Holy Communion will be held in the Aldrich Chapel at 12:10 PM.
December 7: Advent Adventure
The FUMC Children’s Ministry invites you to experience the story of Christmas as a family through activities, crafts, food, and music at Advent Adventure. This event is from 4-6 PM at Galvez Plaza downtown. Candlelight carols will begin at 5:30pm. Invite friends and family!
December 7: Mid City Church Gathering
Join our Mid City Church campus at Mid City Redevelopment Alliance at 5 PM for worship, snacks, and a faith discussion.
December 10: Senior Adult Program
Make plans to attend the Senior Adult Christmas Event!  Musical entertainment will be provided by the Baton Rouge Chorus of Sweet Adelines. The program begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Conference Center.  Lunch and program  $25.00.  To make reservations, call (225) 383-4777, ext. 229 or email care@firstmethodist.org.
December 14: Music Sunday
The 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 AM worship services will feature special music of the season. Join us at church or online! 
December 14: Gumbo & Downtown Pilgrimage
The Downtown Christmas Pilgrimage features a walking tour of several downtown churches. At each stop, music of the season is performed. The Pilgrimage begins at 5:30 PM at Mt. Zion First Baptist Church.

Join us beforehand at 4:30 PM in the FUMC Conference Center for a gumbo supper. 
December 21: Mid City Church Gathering
Join our Mid City Church campus at for our Christmas gathering! We'll meet at The Guru at 5 PM for worship, snacks, and a faith discussion. This is a great service to attend if you'll be traveling on Christmas Eve.​​​​
December 21: The Longest Night Service
At this 7 PM service we honor the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, and offer healing, hope, and encouragement. This contemplative service speaks particularly to persons who have had a difficult year and to all of us who have unspoken concerns and needs. 
December 24: Christmas Eve Worship Services
  • The 11 AM service in the Sanctuary includes a puppet show, a nativity, and other fun elements for families. 
  • The 2 PM America Street service features contemporary music, communion, and a Christmas message.
  • The 4 and 6 PM Sanctuary services feature traditional Christmas hymns, communion, and a Christmas message.
December 28: One Service
This Sunday, we will have one church-wide service at 10 AM in the gym.

Order a pOinsettia

Click here

Ways to Serve

There are many ways to serve throughout the Advent season. Click on each line below to read more.

The Giving Tree
FUMC is working with Dufrocq Elementary and the Gardere Initiative to ensure that children receive gifts for Christmas! Sign up to buy gifts for a child here. Gifts are due back by December 14. 
Food Boxes
This year, we will feed 200 families a holiday meal. There are two ways to help with food boxes this year:

1) Unload the food truck on December 19 at 10 AM at FUMC.
2) Assemble and deliver food boxes on December 20 at 9 AM at FUMC. 
Greet at Worship Services and Events
Welcome others to events and worship services this season. Sign up here! ​Questions? Contact Pattye Hewitt. ​​​
Cupcake Boxing
On December 22 from 1-4 PM, help package cupcakes so children can sing happy birthday to Jesus on Christmas. Click here to sign up.

Advent Devotionals

‘Advent: A Calendar of Devotions 2025’ provides daily devotions to help you prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ. Each day’s reading, from the first Sunday of Advent (Nov. 30) to Christmas Day, is based on the Revised Common Lectionary and includes the Scripture, a short devotion, and a prayer. Printed devotionals are available on the Resource Tables and at the entrances to the sanctuary. Those who would like a printed copy mailed to their home or a downloadable version can email Pattye Hewitt by clicking the button below.
Get a devotional

Mission Focus

This year, our mission focus will be on fighting holiday hunger. Starting on Giving Tuesday, and culminating on Christmas Eve, we will combat hunger by providing holiday food boxes and supporting the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank with a financial gift. 
Give Now

At home worship kits

Can’t join us in person for Christmas Eve worship? Our Online Worship Kits have everything you need to celebrate from home. Kits will be available throughout the week and on Sundays beginning November 27 at the America Street Welcome Desk and in Ory Parish Hall. You may also request one to be mailed to you by contacting Pattye Hewitt by clicking the button below.
Get a worship kit