​Advent Tea at Hope Lutheran Church, Virginia Beach

     ​Advent Tea at Hope Lutheran began ten years ago, started at the request of the Pastor, and put together by Kathryn Wacker and Britta Rinehard. We took advantage of our large space and invited other local ladies’ groups in the Tidewater Zone to join us. Ever since it has been a way for Hope to join in fellowship with our closest church neighbors. It was a challenge this year as we had to respect the social distancing mandates and keep everyone safe and healthy. To our friends who couldn’t join us this year, we understand, we miss you, we pray for you, and we are looking forward to seeing you again next year. 2 Chronicles 15:7 “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”

     Hope Lutheran Church LWML hosted their tenth annual Advent Tea on December 5; while it was smaller, more spread out, and saw faces covered with masks, it was an enjoyable opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for the Advent Season. The decorations were in true “Tea Party” style, the centerpieces were floral filled teapots of all shapes and sizes. The ladies were also invited to participate in the first ever teacup exchange. Names and addresses were exchanged with the cups and the ladies were encouraged to reach out and start a new friendship. Despite the pandemic, and social distancing measures, our ladies are able to make new and hopefully ongoing connections.

     With a theme of Fun and Fellowship in Faith, Hope LWML lit the advent wreath around lovely music. We opened with a heartwarming solo by Rebekah Samuel singing Mary Did You Know. Our choir director Ellen Belfi and flutist Sue Cashman accompanied Colleen Shahayda in a collection of hymns, some we sang along with and some we sat back and enjoyed the solos. We were also joined by Hope Lutheran’s Bell Choir led by Alison Hernandez. We all enjoyed the silly rhymes in the Pass the Centerpiece game that we sprinkled throughout the event. The favorite game was the Guess the Christmas Song that was suggested by Chris Eller and illustrated by Desiree Davis. Pastor Alexander Whitfield gave a wonderful message reminding us to find our “Joy-ittude” this season. We were all touched by the short story and devotional both of which focused on faith and waiting. Closing the event out was “The Rest of the Story” of Silent Night, followed by everyone singing a touching rendition.

     Advent Tea is a special event that could not be hosted without the help of an army of volunteers. Many thanks to the Planning Committee, all of the set-up crew, and especially the clean-up crew that rolled up their sleeves to wash dishes! May all your hearts and minds be well rested, and we pray that you find the “Joy-ittude” that supports you for the rest of the year. 

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