The Advent bible study is based on a program called "The Texts Behind the Tunes" by Rev. Dr. Patricia Dutcher-Walls
Each week we will study 1 well known Advent hymn and the scriptures that make up the basis for those hymns. From my course in Hebrew Bible at Vancouver School of Theology, I will share a little about the context of the ancient Israelites in the time of the scripture that we study. The aim is to acknowledge the background of the early Christians, who knew the Hebrew scriptures well. I will start the session by playing a rendition of the hymn, and we will talk a little about our own pre existing feelings about the hymn. Then, we will read a section of the Hebrew Bible and discuss how that both changes and affirms our understanding of the hymn and of our hopes and expectations in the season of Advent.
Folks can attend all or just one session as they like. I am excited to join everyone in a time of music, bible study, and reflection on God's work in our lives this Advent!