Advent: Poems for the Waiting
Advent is a season of waiting, longing, and holding on to hope. And sometimes, we need words that help us make room for all three.
This free Advent pack includes five spoken word videos, each written specifically for the Church to help congregations embrace the beauty and tension of this season—the ache of waiting, the hope of what is to come, and the promise that God is with us in it all.
My hope is that these poems would create space for reflection, stir hope, and help your church enter more deeply into the story of Advent.
These videos are yours to use freely throughout the season—whether in Sunday services, small groups, Advent gatherings, or wherever they might serve your community.
It's a small gift from me to your church and I hope these words are a meaningful companion as you wait, wonder, and prepare for the coming of Christ.
Please read through the FAQ section before downloading and using.
Below is a link where you can download all the videos and lyrics for your use.
By clicking the button you’ll be directed to a Google Drive Folder where you’ll be able to download the videos and poems.
If you have any questions, please e-mail me at writtentospeak@gmail.com
FAQ
Do we need to pay you to use these videos?
You do not. This is a gift.
However, if you’d like to support this ministry become a paid subscriber to my Substack.
Click the link and select Annual.
This is the best way to make a donation to my work.
Can we share these poems and videos on our social media/email list?
You can, but please share them from Tanner’s Youtube or Facebook page. Do not upload the files yourself.
If you would like to share them on your social media or within your email please share the following links:
Can we put the poems in our bulletin or share them on our socials?
Yes, but please credit Tanner Olson and writtentospeak.com
You can find the poems here.
Can we tell other churches and ministries about this?
Uhhh … of course! Please do.
Would you be willing to speak at our church?
Yes! Check the PDF that is included in the Google Drive for more information. Or you can visit writtentospeak.com/speaking.
Where can we buy your books?
You can grab my books from writtentospeak.com/books.
What’s your background?
I am a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin. I graduated in 2012 with a degree in Ministry and Theology. I served full-time as Program Director at Camp Luther in Three Lakes, Wisconsin for several years. From 2016-2019 I worked for the ACTS Church Network in Austin, Texas. There I had the opportunity to teach and lead community groups. Since 2019 I have been a full-time author, poet, and speaker. These days I get to share poetry and deliver messages of hope across the country at churches, conferences, and community gatherings.
How can we contact you?
Writtentospeak@gmail.com or writtentospeak.com
About Tanner
Tanner Olson is an author, spoken word poet, speaker, and humorist whose work explores hope, grief, faith, and the everyday moments of life.
Often described as a “stand-up poet-theologian,” Tanner blends poetry, storytelling, and humor to remind audiences to slow down, pay attention, and find beauty and hope in the ordinary.
He is an award-winning children’s book author, and his latest collection of poems and essays, Getting Through What You’re Going Through, was a bestseller; he lives in Nashville with his wife, Sarah, their son, Judah, and their golden doodle, Pancake.
You can follow Tanner Olson on Instagram (@writtentospeak) and Facebook where you’ll daily find encouraging words of faith and hope.
