Written by: United Theological Seminary December 12, 2025

Images of Hope: Advent in Art

Art has the tremendous power to restore us in a time when our world seems to make no sense and we need a moment of respite and encouragement from our daily struggles. A single photograph of a flower or a laughing child can buoy our spirit to carry on.

In the Christian tradition, the season of Advent urges us to look for Hope, Peace, Joy and Love, and we’d like to open a space for you to share photos that speak to you in those ways.

Add Your Image of Hope
Throughout Advent, we will be publishing submissions received from United students, alums, faculty, and staff. There’s still time to add yours! To submit your image, click here.

Pieces are published in the order in which they are received. Last updated: December 12, 2025.

6528470811733732734 - Ryan Currens

“Feed for the winter.” by Ryan Currens (student, Institutional Major Gifts Officer)

This picture from our family farm in Iowa of fall fields reminds me of the hope for plenty during the winter months to come.

“Enduring Hope” by Rev. Dr. Cindi Beth Johnson (Vice President for Advancement)

My nephew Erik took this photo in the late days of fall. The remaining beautiful red blossom, still holding court, is for me a sign of hope and determination.

“Children’s Creation” by April Knight (student)

When I was growing up in church—a church I loved—children’s art would have never been allowed front and center displayed as Peace Church in Duluth celebrates children! This is the “Hope” of my Advent season this year.

“puddle no filter” by Mike Coyne (student)

Neither the limits nor the beauty of a physical form can negate its essence, or capture its true nature.

“Waterfall Cross” by Tami Glasbrenner (Accountant)

Photo taken while hiking Hocking Hills Ohio State Park.

“Tiny Tracks” by Sheryl Schwyhart (’20)

IMG_0005 - Babs Allen

“Chapel in the Trees” by Babs Allen (student)

Sign as you enter into the Chapel in the Trees in Funk’s Grove, IL.

“Annunciation (by Julia Barkley)” by Rev. Dr. Cindi Beth Johnson (Vice President for Advancement)

During chapel, we were in a circle, and I realized I was facing The Annunciation. A reminder of hope in the Christian tradition.

“The United Chapel during Advent” by Ryan Currens (student, Institutional Major Gifts Officer)

I took this picture during the second week of Advent after the final chapel for this semester.

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