Advent 2021: The Heart That Grew Three SizesNovember 28, 2021

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! was originally published as a stand-alone story in 1957. Dr. Seuss, also known as Ted Geisel, set out to tell a Christmas story that pushed against the mainstream. He tried to avoid kitschy and sentimental moralisms, and in the process, developed a character synonymous with greed, mischief, and an irrational distaste for all things Christmas. Interestingly, Geisel quickly began to realize his story was autobiographical. His personal disdain for sleigh bells, sappy music, and garish decorations was more than enough fodder for the Grinch to be endearing. Should we hate the Grinch? Is he worthy of our sympathy? What might his story help us learn about our own traditions and stories? What images immediately cross your mind as you ponder the Christmas season? Do you feel trapped by the commercialism of Christmas? Let’s explore all of this as we take a journey together learning the true meaning of the Christmas season. Let’s prepare our hearts and minds for the Advent of Jesus in our world. Come and see!