Advent
You Belong Here!
This Advent, join us in a journey where questions are valued and community is cherished. Together, let’s find joy and meaning in the anticipation of the season, building a community that resonates with inclusivity, justice, and faith. Your story, your identity, your doubts, and your beliefs are all welcome and celebrated here at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church. Come, be a part of our community this Advent season!
Christmas Eve Services
You’re invited to Christmas Eve at NYAPC! Our services are filled with music, community, and warmth, perfect for embracing the season’s true spirit. Whether you are a long-time member or a first-time visitor, you’ll find a welcoming space to reflect, rejoice, and renew your spirit.
4 pm | Candlelight Worship
Celebrate Christmas Eve at our 4 pm Candlelight Worship with festive carols by our Sanctuary Choir and Brass Quartet and an extended Children’s Time. Arrive early to enjoy an extended carol prelude with brass starting at 3:50 pm.
7 pm | Candlelight and Communion Worship
Celebrate Christmas Eve at our 7 pm Candlelight and Communion Worship with a quiet, reflective atmosphere and an extended prelude beginning at 6:50 pm.
Christmas Eve FAQ
We are located in the triangle formed by New York Avenue NW, H Street NW, and 13th Street NW, two blocks east of the White House, close to McPherson Square and Metro Center stations.
Free self-parking is available in the garage next to the church at 1399 New York Avenue NW. Please park in any non-reserved space.
There is also a bike share station right around the corner!
There are two ways to get to the Sanctuary. If you come up the outside stairs, you will enter in the back of the Sanctuary. You are also welcome to come through the entrance on the New York Avenue side and take the elevator or stairs to the second floor, where you then enter at the front of the Sanctuary, on either side of the pulpit.
Our Christmas Eve Worship Service lasts about an hour.
While our nursery, located on the 3rd floor, will not be staffed, you are welcome to use this as a quiet space.
We understand the importance of privacy and comfort. While our worship services are livestreamed, we have a designated off-camera section for those who prefer not to be shown on the livestream. Your choice is respected, and we want you to be able to fully engage in the worship experience. If you have any concerns, please speak with our staff. Your comfort is important to us!
Yes! Everyone’s welcome, and not only that, everyone’s celebrated just the way they are. NYAPC is a part of the More Light Presbyterians, “working toward the full participation of LGBTQIA+ people in the life, ministry and witness of the Presbyterian Church (USA) – and in society,” and part of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians.
For those seeking a gender–neutral restroom, there is one on the 2nd floor, just outside the Sanctuary doors on the New York Avenue side of the building.
Absolutely! At NYAPC, we warmly welcome individuals from all walks of life, including those experiencing homelessness. Our church community is a place of inclusivity and compassion, where everyone is valued and respected. We recognize that homelessness is a challenging circumstance that some members of our community may face, and we are committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all. You can expect to see individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who are currently unhoused, as we strive to create a community where everyone feels accepted and embraced. If you have any specific questions or would like to learn more about the resources and support we offer, please feel free to reach out to our church staff. We are here to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors feels a sense of belonging and finds the love and care they deserve.
Up to you! Our members and visitors dress in a variety of ways, from “Sunday Best” to blue jeans and T-shirts.
Children are welcome, including all their excitement and noises. There is a dedicated children’s space in the back of the sanctuary with supplies and space for kids to wiggle. At each sanctuary entrance, there are brightly colored worship kits that children may borrow and use throughout worship at their seats. During 4 pm worship, there is a children’s moment when children are invited forward to the front pew.
An accessible entrance is located on the New York Ave side of the building. There is elevator access to all floors of the building.
Assisted Listening Devices are available at the back of the sanctuary. The system consists of a small wireless receiver and headphones. You may also connect your t-coil equipped hearing aid to the receiver using an adapter. Please ask an usher for assistance.
Advent Sermon Series
We all have unique definitions of home and where we belong. Some may find home in physical spaces. Others find home among people who celebrate and treasure us for the beautiful and beloved person God created us to be. Advent and Christmas are a sort of homecoming. At Christmas, we are reminded that God found a new home among us in Jesus.
Join us this Advent season as we explore the theme “Where You Belong,” reflecting on our identity and place within God’s story. Through the powerful readings from the Prophet Isaiah and Gospels, we will uncover God’s profound message of belonging.
Advent Events
Connect With Us This Advent
Have questions or need guidance?
We’re here to help you navigate this special season. Reach out to us anytime!