For more than four decades, Augsburg University has ushered in the Advent and Christmas seasons with Advent Vespers, a magnificent experience of music and liturgy focusing on the theme of preparation and culminating in the joyful celebration of the Incarnation.
47th Annual Advent Vespers
As it was in Jesus’ time, we live in a world in which there is much to fear. God, who knows the human heart, is constantly sending us messengers who announce, “Do not be afraid!” making it among the most repeated pronouncements in all of Scripture. The angel Gabriel brings this message three times in the opening chapters of Luke’s gospel: first to Zechariah, then to Mary, and finally to the shepherds. We all have fears, but the power of love that is born to us on this holy night promises to free us from our fears so that we might magnify God’s liberating love to a weary world.
Dates and Times
Friday, December 4, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 5, 2:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m
Location
Central Lutheran Church
333 South 12th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Cost
Advent Vespers is free to the public with a suggested donation of $30 per person. Please consider giving online through the donation portal below, or when you reserve your seats. Donation envelopes will also be available at the church for each service.
Reservations and Seating
Reservations for Advent Vespers are strongly suggested and must be made online through the link below. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Make your reservations now, and we’ll see you in December!
Reservation links coming soon!
Live Stream: December 6, 2 p.m.
Streaming will begin at approximately 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025. You may need to refresh your page to access the stream if you launch before 1:15 p.m. A recording of the service will be available at a later date on the Advent Vespers Collection playlist by the Augsburg University Archives.
Parking
Parking is free at Central Lutheran Church. There will be signs and people with flags to help guide you to each of the various entrances. Visit Central Lutheran's Parking & Directions page for more information.
Accessibility
If you need disability-related accommodations in order to attend this event, please email vespers@augsburg.edu.
Advent Vespers Devotional
As part of Advent Vespers, we offer a digital daily devotional throughout Advent tied to our Vespers theme using scripture texts and hymn stanzas with reflections by members of the Augsburg community.
Support Vespers
Augsburg University’s Advent Vespers services are funded solely by generous individual contributions. Your donation today will directly support students, staff, and faculty in continuing this majestic tradition. Make your contribution today.
Volunteer with Us
Interested in volunteering at this year’s Advent Vespers? We would love for any Augsburg staff, alumni, or current students to help support in handing out programs, collecting seating envelopes, and greeting guests as they arrive for each of the services.
Email the team at vespers@augsburg.edu with questions.