ICF - Professions of Faith

Sunday 13th December 2026 - 3rd Sunday in Advent

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8,19-28; Psalm 126

The words of the prophet Isaiah present a picture of the coming of Christ that will impact lived realities, especially those of the oppressed, imprisoned, broken and wounded. This offers an opportunity to affirm and celebrate those workplace professions that provide support and advocacy for those impacted by these realities in today's world. This might also be more generally applied to consider how the coming of Christ impacts the workplaces and professions with which members of a congregation engage in their own daily lives. This connection is further emphasised through the invitation in the New Testament Epistle to 'pray without ceasing - give thanks in all circumstances.' A congregation might usefully reflect on the places they might go in coming days where they are encouraged to be prayerful and thankful.

The Isaiah prophecy develops into a more communal picture of restoration, with the language of rebuilding ruins and restoring devastated communities. The theme is echoed in the Psalm which expressed both celebration and aspiration of community renewal and restoration. This offers an opportunity to celebrate and draw parallels with the work of those who are engaged in regeneration, neighbourhood and other place strategies. This might include areas like town planning, civil engineering, architecture and other technical roles along with a recognition of those who physically construct and renovate buildings and public spaces.