Although it is not possible to host our regular Advent luncheon this year, we do, however, have a rare opportunity to announce a series of Advent talks from four Australian biblical scholars from Yarra Theological Union, a College of the University of Divinity. Each will reflect on the extraordinary richness and beauty of the Advent readings.

Speaking to us from their own area of expertise will be: 

Dr Janina Hiebel, who specialises in Prophetic literature, will guide us through the First Readings that come to us mainly from the prophet Isaiah. 

Dr Mary Reaburn NDS, who is an expert in the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament, will draw out the richness of the Responsorial Psalms. 

Dr Chris  Monaghan CP, author of the Friendly Guide to Paul, will explore the longings and hopes of the early Christian communities found in the Second Readings.
 

Assoc Prof Mary Coloe PBVM, a world recognised expert on the Gospel of John and author of the Friendly Guide to John, will draw out the significance and meaning of the Advent Gospels.

Each week this group of accomplished guides will work together to shed light on each of the readings for the coming week. This perfect opportunity to grow in your understanding as disciples should not to be missed.

SERIES OVERVIEW

Week One
The First Week of Advent is both challenging and hopeful inviting us to not lose heart in God since our prayers and longing for God will be answered. Waiting for the return of the Lord Jesus Christians of every age are called to stay awake and live our lives in such a way that when he does return we will be prepared and ready to answer his invitation.

Week Two
The Second Week of Advent reminds us that God entered into the suffering of the people of Israel in exile and brought them home at a time when many had given up hope. God is always at work preparing a pathway in the wilderness so that we can journey home. John the Baptist’s call is for Christians of every age to enter into this precious opportunity for renewal.

Week Three
The Third Sunday of Advent always calls us to rejoice in the saving acts of God who renews the earth and brings us from captivity to freedom, binding up our wounded hearts. While we wait for Jesus’ return Paul reminds us that God will not fail us and John the Baptist’s testimony to Jesus reminds us of our mission to witness to Jesus the light of the world.

Week Four
The Fourth Sunday of Advent invites us to see Jesus as the fulfilment of God’s promises to David of a relationship that would unfold over the centuries – a relationship marked by love, and faithfulness. The promises made so long ago are now coming to their fulfilment when a young woman called Mary is invited to share in the most extraordinary new beginning of them all.

EVENT DETAILS