A Writing Workshop with Davyne Verstandig.

ABOUT DAVYNE VERSTANDIG:

Davyne Verstandig was a lecturer in English and Creative Writing at the University of Connecticut. (retired June 2020 after 25 years, where she was the Director of The Litchfield County Writers Project.)

Its archives can be found at: https://collections.ctdigitalarchive.org/islandora/object/20002%3A860453746)

She has given writing workshops throughout New England.

She is Poet Laureate Emerita of Washington and has performed her work throughout New England and New York. She is a Justice of the Peace. As a writing advisor she has helped many writers with their novels, memoirs and poetry collections. She can be found at mymindisintheink@gmail.com.

Her website is www.davyneverstandig.com

Her work is included in the following anthologies:

Sex and Sexuality if a Feminist World

Laureates of Connecticut, An Anthology of Contemporary Poetry

Waking Up to the Earth, Connecticut Poets in a Time of Global Climate Crisis

Her books include Pieces of the Whole and Provisions.

A peaceful, contemplative liturgy awaits those for whom the holidays are hard or who are simply seeking some quiet space during the rush of the Christmas season.

We invite you to let the music wash over you, to be inspired by readings, to light a candle, to receive a prayer for healing, or simply to sit and look and listen. The longest night of the year points in one direction – the light is returning.

Invite a friend or neighbor – all are welcome.

Candlelight service of Lessons and Carols

We are told, by the culture that surrounds us, that the Christmas season is supposed to be a time of good cheer, replete with parties, festivities and merriment. Yet for many, this season is not all it is cracked up to be. It is a time of great stress and high anxiety, and the forced merriment just makes things worse. For some, the season is a time of great sadness, as we struggle with loneliness, loss, despair, or grief.

At this Blue Christmas jazz Communion service, we will bring into sacred space all that we are and all that we feel, and we will lift up our concerns to the One who created us, redeemed us, and sustains us even now. On this holy night, we will remember that God dwells wherever we dwell, in our going out and in our returning, in our joys and in our sorrows. During the dark night of the soul or of the season, God will light the way for us.

Ahavah tells a story of hope in the midst of despair.  An imaginative retelling of the story of Jesus’ birth, this production has been running for 19 years, and is now becoming a local Christmas tradition. Ahavah explores the mystery of  Christmas, demonstrating how love can shine brightly even in the darkest of times.  This is a magical show for the whole family that will surely lift your spirit!

Taking you back in time to experience the astonishing true story behind Christmas, Ahavah is a delight for the whole family. The joy and enchantment of the season are palpable in this telling of a timeless story. Ekklesia Contemporary Ballet and Ekklesia School of Ballet join together once more to present the twentieth year of Ahavah!

Sister Monica Clare shocked everyone—herself included—by leaving behind a high-stress advertising career, a failing marriage, and a life of celebrity parties. Her epiphany came at Jimmy Fallon’s Birthday Party and realized she yearned for a more meaningful life. Monica traded red carpets for robes, joining an Episcopal convent where silence, simplicity, and sisterhood reshaped her life.

Christ Church Greenwich warmly invites the community to get into the Christmas spirit with this beloved and inspiring Christmas tradition weaving together scripture readings, carols, and hymns, celebrating the story of the birth of Christ in a deeply moving and joyful way. Featuring the Choir of Men and Boys, the St. Cecilia Choir of Girls, and the Christ Church Singers, the music is magnificent, led by Music Director Jamie Hitel and Associate Music Director, Jonathan Vaughn. This is famous for being sung every year at the King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, England. With the glorious acoustics of the Christ Church Greenwich Main Sanctuary, the evening promises to inspire and uplift all who attend. Admission is free, and all are welcome to join us as we prepare our hearts for the beauty and wonder of Christmas. Seating is General Admission and no tickets are required.

Christmas Concert

Christ Church in Bethlehem (18 Main St. South)

Saturday, December 21st ~ 5 to 6:00 pm

Featuring : Cleveland Alexander Williams, Margaret Evans Cosgrove, Stephanie Biello

Reception with Food & Refreshments (including: Artisanal Pizza from Oliva’s, Salad & Beverages & Dessert)

Suggested Donation ~ $30

860.567.8838

(*flyer attached)

The annual tradition of Advent Lessons & Carols will be presented on Sunday, December 8, at 10:15 am. The service will include music sung by the Adult Choir and guest singers, especially music by women authors and composers. Holy Eucharist will be celebrated by the Rev. Matt Handi.