This bulletin can become a warm, reflective blog post highlighting the first Sunday of Advent and inviting people into YUC’s life. Here is a draft in blog form you can copy and edit as needed:
Hope in Waiting – First Sunday of Advent at YUC
This Sunday at Yokohama Union Church marked the beginning of Advent, a season of waiting, watching, and hoping for the coming of Christ. The sanctuary was filled with quiet expectation as the prelude, “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” invited everyone into stillness and prayer.
Worship Centered on Hope
The service opened with a call to worship drawn from Isaiah 9:2 and Mark 13:32–37, reminding the congregation that God’s promises are sure and that Christ’s light shines even in deep darkness. The congregation joined in singing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” voicing a shared longing for God’s presence in a troubled world.
Being the first Sunday of Advent, the Candle of Hope was lit by Julyca and Banli Kato. The simple act of lighting this candle proclaimed that God’s faithfulness outlasts every shadow, and that followers of Jesus are people who watch, wait, and hope.
Confession, Assurance, and Community
Together the congregation prayed a prayer of confession, honestly naming how easy it is to feel hopeless when surrounded by the world’s despair. Words of assurance then declared the heart of the Gospel: in Jesus Christ, sins are forgiven and lives are made new.
Newcomers and returning friends were welcomed and invited to introduce themselves, emphasizing that YUC is a community where all are encouraged to belong and participate. The passing of the peace allowed people to share Christ’s peace with one another, expressing love and unity in tangible ways.
Word, Sermon, and Prayer
Children gathered at the front for a special time led by Alisha Yamamori while “Jesus Loves Me” played, reminding everyone that the message of Advent is for all ages. Bilingual scripture readings from Isaiah 9:2 and Mark 13:32–37, in English and Japanese, connected prophecy with Christ’s call to “keep watch.”
Rev. Claudia Genung-Yamamoto preached a sermon titled “Hope in Waiting,” reflecting on what it means to stay awake spiritually when the timing of God’s work is unknown. The congregation responded in song with “All Earth Is Hopeful,” and then moved into a time of offering, prayer over pledge and commitment cards, and intercession in the Prayers of the People led by Rev. Debbie Umipig-Julian.
Music of the Season
Music wove through the entire service as a thread of worship. Piano pieces by Yoko Irie, including the prelude and postlude “What Child Is This?,” framed the time together with familiar Advent and Christmas melodies. Special music featured “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” on recorder and piano, drawing hearts deeper into the mystery of Christ’s coming.
The congregation closed in song with “Lift Up Your Heads, O Mighty Gates,” an Advent hymn based on Psalm 24, before receiving the benediction. As the acolyte carried the light of Christ out of the sanctuary, it symbolized taking that light into the world beyond the church doors.
Serving, Giving, and Upcoming Events
Many people served in worship—from ushers and fellowship hosts to musicians, pastors, and board members—embodying YUC’s belief that ministry belongs to all of God’s people. The bulletin also highlighted several opportunities to grow, serve, and celebrate together in the coming weeks:
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Youth Group (middle school, high school, and young adults) meeting after worship with Pastor Debbie, including a pizza lunch.
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December 7: Communion Sunday and second Sunday of Advent, with Christmas pageant rehearsal during Sunday School (starting at 9:00 a.m.).
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December 14: YUC Sunday School Christmas Pageant during the 10:30 a.m. worship service, with an early rehearsal and a request for parents to bring snacks for children and fellowship.
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December 14 evening: Tri-church choir participation in “Lessons and Carols” at Christ Church, starting at 6:00 p.m.
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December 21: Fourth Sunday of Advent, with Christmas gifts for the orphanage due so they can be delivered on December 23.
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December 24: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:00 p.m., with everyone invited to bring cookies and snacks to share afterward.
Caring Beyond the Church Walls
This season, YUC is collecting presents for an orphanage, with details available on a poster at church. Members are also invited into ongoing weekday classes, prayer groups, and Bible studies, and can request to receive the weekly email newsletter from Pastor Claudia.
The Homeless Ministry continues to gather non-perishable food and to distribute it on Thursday nights from 7–8 p.m. near the Kannai area and Yokohama Stadium, offering practical support and dignity to neighbors in need. Those interested in serving can speak with Etsuko.
Offering and Church Life
YUC offers both in-person and online giving, including direct deposit via Bank of Yokohama and credit card donations through goyuc.com/give. On Sunday, November 23, 2025, the in-person offering totaled 86,400 yen, with 68 people in attendance (56 adults and 12 children), reflecting a generous and engaged congregation.