Advent resources raise money for Church of Scotland HIV Programme

Published on 1 September 2023 1 minute read

A new biblical resource for Advent aims to help burdened ministers and worship leaders while raising funds for the Church of Scotland HIV Programme.

The story-based document, titled 'Illuminating Christmas', can be adapted as a resource for Bible study groups, Sunday services, school assemblies and other settings, with materials which can be helpful for congregations which run worship teams.

Parish Nativity Scene By Katie Hill
A parish nativity scene by Katie Hill featured within the document.

It is free to use for any congregation and can be accessed from Longniddry Church's parish website.

The creator of the resources, Rev Dr Robin Hill, minister at Gladsmuir linked with Longniddry, said the pack aims to see congregations 'through every Sunday in December and into January' to help worship leaders struggling with the busyness of the season.

"Advent is always hectic," he said.

Dr Hill said the document 'helps users to think about Advent but also where it's leading,' with two additional stories for Christmas Day and Epiphany.

Each week's material is supported by an accompanying image by Katie Hill, a theology graduate and illustrator.

Her pictures can be downloaded by churches for presentations and printouts, all free of charge.

Nativity Illustration By Katie Hill
A nativity illustration by Katie Hill.

Each of the stories within the document was inspired by a different vintage Christmas stamp.

Though the resource is free, congregations who use it are invited to donate to the Church of Scotland HIV Programme, which supports a variety of project partners throughout the world.

Dr Hill, who was the convener of the Programme from 2007 to 2014 and represented the Church of Scotland at the World AIDS Conference in Melbourne, said he hoped the resource might be appreciated by congregations, but also that it could 'raise some money for a good cause.'

If you find the resource helpful, donations can be made:

- By bank transfer through contacting hiv@churchofscotland.org.uk for details.

- By cheque payable to 'The Church of Scotland HIV Programme'. This should be sent to The Church of Scotland HIV Programme, 121 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4YN.