Ugly Sweater Sunday

On Sunday, December 17, 2023, Encounter Church got a whole lot brighter, bolder, and... itchier as we celebrated our very first Ugly Christmas Sweater Sunday! From blinking lights to jingle bells and tinsel galore, our church family showed up ready to laugh, connect, and spread a little extra Christmas cheer.

There were sweaters with reindeer, snowmen, and even a few with built-in sound effects. But behind every tacky cardigan and over-the-top pullover was a heart ready to worship and celebrate the season of hope, joy, and togetherness.

Ugly Sweater Sunday gave us the perfect excuse to not take ourselves too seriously—to laugh, take silly photos, and simply enjoy one another. Whether it was your first Sunday with us or your tenth, it was hard not to feel the warmth of community (and possibly the itch of wool).

Though it was a fun and festive day, Ugly Sweater Sunday reminded us of something important: church can be both sacred and joyful. We can laugh together, dress a little ridiculous, and still come with hearts wide open to encounter God.

It was a small way to live out the joy of the season and make room for everyone to feel included—silly sweaters and all.

Same time next year? We’ll bring the hot cocoa.