Join us for Advent & Christmas

2025 First Baptist Advent Devotion 
The theme of this year’s devotion is Held Deep. After the shepherds’ visit Scripture tells us that “Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart.” The Message paraphrase says she “held these things dear, deep within herself.” Each devotion will share a reflection on things held dear and deep – people, stories, moments, practices that draw us closer to the heart of Christmas. These devotions will offer a glimpse into what we treasure and how Christ’s love takes root deep within us.  Sign-up here to receive the devotions.

Hanging of the Green • Sunday, November 30 • 6:00 p.m. • Sanctuary 
All ages will help adorn the Sanctuary with poinsettias, garlands, candles, and Chrismons on the tree. After the singing of carols, we will enjoy a delicious holiday reception.

Asheville Youth Choirs: A Season of Peace • Sunday, December 7 • 6:00 p.m. • Sanctuary 
Hear our Children’s Concert Choir and Youth Chorale sing heart-warming Christmas songs along with the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra. This performance is free and open to all.

Folk Advent Service • Wednesday, December 10 • 6:00 p.m. • Sanctuary
 Join us as renowned musician Josh Goforth takes us on a journey to his Madison County home for an Appalachian Christmas. This time of year can be a mix of emotions: joy, sadness, excitement, loneliness, and gratitude. Through stories and songs from his childhood, Josh will remind us of the importance of family’s role in processing these emotions and the hope that connection brings during this joyous season.  

The Marvel of This Night • Sunday, December 14 • 7:00 p.m. • Sanctuary
Come and let your heart be filled with the wonder of Christmas. The FBCA Adult Choir invites you to an evening of carols, poetry, and the timeless story of hope and joy. This free 75-minute concert features Gerald Finzi’s breathtaking In Terra Pax—a luminous musical telling of the nativity for soloists, choir, and orchestra. You’ll also hear cherished favorites such as The First Nowell and Hark, the Herald Angels Sing, along with three radiant Christmas sonnets by Cambridge poet Malcolm Guite, read by Mack Dennis and friends.

Let the beauty of music and word draw you into the mystery and marvel of this holy night.

Reading and Conversation with Jan Richardson • Wednesday, December 17 • 5:30 p.m. • Chapel
The Center for Faith and Life and First Congregational United Church of Christ welcome artist and writer Jan Richardson for an evening of reflection.

Advent Organ Recital: Oliver Messiaen’s The Birth of Our Lord • Sunday, December 21 • 7:00 p.m.  • Sanctuary
Come and rest in the quiet beauty of the season. Messiaen’s La Nativité du Seigneur, played by Tate Addis, and Auden’s For the Time Being, read by Rev. Tambi Swiney, invite us to ponder the mystery of the Incarnation with music and words full of light. Share in a contemplative celebration of Christmas hope and wonder.