Presbyterian Publishing launches a new Advent book on hospitality

‘Stay Awhile’ reminds us to take time for the season’s necessary preparations

by Westminster John Knox Press | Special to Presbyterian News Service

While the world tries to rush us into Christmas, decorating the day after Halloween and packing it all up once the gifts are opened on December 25, Advent is a season of preparation that — like our holiday gatherings themselves — takes time and care.

Think of the anticipation that comes with hosting loved ones for Christmas dinner: We begin by extending an invitation. We make plans, and as the event draws closer, we begin our preparations. Ultimately, we open the door and welcome our guests, and that is when, finally, we celebrate. Advent should feel the same way, a time to make ready for the long-awaited event of Christ’s birth.

In “Stay Awhile: Advent Lessons in Divine Hospitality,” pastor Kara Eidson presents a banquet table of inspiration for Advent, including weekly reflections for personal and small group use, brief daily devotions, and ideas to involve the whole congregation. Congregational resources include liturgies, sermon starters, children’s moments, and even a no-rehearsals-needed Christmas pageant.

Early praise for the book

“Kara Eidson brings a scholar’s insight, a pastor’s heart, and a storyteller’s gift to the task of writing. Through the lens of hospitality, Kara invites us to hear anew the powerful themes and scriptures of Advent, and to spend time daily reflecting upon them.” — Adam Hamilton, pastor and author of “Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith”

“Kara Eidson’s ‘Stay Awhile’ is an invitation that comes at just the right time. With daily devotions, questions for reflection, liturgical guides, and even a pop-up pageant, this Advent study is a rich resource for individuals, small groups, and congregations, alike. Eidson’s focus on hospitality reminds us of the importance of preparing for Jesus — physically, materially, and spiritually. Like a balm for our frenzy-filled lives, “Stay Awhile” offers restoration, shifting our focus and deepening our experience of the Advent season.” — Christine Coy Fohr, co-author of “Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study”

Press Contact: Natalie Smith Nsmith@wjkbooks.com