Holiday traditions at All Saints require special celebrations, sometimes joyful, sometimes solemn.
September
Backpack Blessing
This annual celebration of education in our community features blessings for all students, teachers, administrators, and parents—oh, and backpacks! In addition, each year we set a goal to collect “A Ton of Paper” – literally, 2,000 pounds of paper! – which we use to make a paper altar for our service, and then donate to neighborhood public schools.
October
Pet Blessing
Every year in early October the furry and feathered are invited inside the church for a special blessing. A great service to observe or participate! Check out a recent pet blessing featured in the Chicago Tribune.
November
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day is celebrated with Day of the Dead traditions, a New Orleans style brass band, and a sanctuary full of prayer flags inscribed with names and remembrances of those loved and lost by members of our community.
December
Christmas Pageant
The children are the stars of All Saints’ slightly non-traditional version of the Christmas story, known in some households as “The Donkey (and Jesus).” The Christmas Pageant experience happens once a year in early December and allows our children to share with the congregation some of the joy they have in their relationship with God.
Dates may vary
Advent and Lent Mid-Week Services
Advent and Lent are occasions for Taize or other sung prayer services on weekday evenings. While different, each service features reading, time for reflection, and song. These contemplative breaks in the week help those who attend find space and meaning in these unique seasons.
