BONUS BLOG: love, serve, lead

Council of Bishops’

Advent message:

Embrace, Live our Vision

The Council of Bishops are calling on United Methodists to embrace the denomination’s new Vision during this Advent Season.

Council of Bishops’ President, Bishop Tracy Smith Malone, writes:

“Advent is a time of expectation and renewal—a season when we prepare for Christ’s coming as we live into our shared Vision in tangible ways as disciples of Jesus Christ. 

• Love Boldly: As Christ’s love breaks into the world, we are called to extend grace and compassion to neighbors near and far.
• Serve Joyfully: Advent reminds us that service is a gift. Every act of kindness becomes a sign of God’s kingdom breaking into our communities.
• Lead Courageously: In times of fear and despair, we lead with faith—proclaiming the good news that Christ comes to dwell among us.

“So, as we light the candles of hope, peace, joy, and love, let us embody these gifts in our homes, churches, and communities. Advent is not passive waiting; it is active preparation. It is living our vision so that the world may know Emmanuel—God with us.”