Hello there,
It is that time of the year when there are many activities going on. The Rockwell Chorus will be performing their Christmas concert on this Saturday at 1:00 in our sanctuary. Later on that afternoon will be our “Parents Night Out” event from 3:00 to 8:00, when our youth will be watching children, ages 4 to 11, to give parents the chance to do some Christmas shopping or just have a break.
Our Angel Tree is set up in the social room with opportunities to provide some Christmas joy to needy children in our community. Unfortunately we are on a tight schedule this year. Take a paper angel, and buy the gift, returning it to the church by next Thursday, December 10. It should not be wrapped. Please help out bringing a little joy to a child.
It is indeed the season of joy, but that grief and sorrow are easily swept aside. This Sunday and next, our parish associate, Pastor Nancy, will be offering a special adult forum, between worship service, that we are calling “What to Say When There is Nothing to Say.” It is hard to know the right thing to say when someone suffers a loss, and often we say and do nothing. Pastor Nancy will be helping us understand some of the grieving process and what is and is not helpful to someone who is going through a difficult time.
Along with this class, we will be offering a special “Blue Christmas” service on Sunday evening, December 20th at 6:00 in this sanctuary. This will be a time for those who have suffered any kind of loss, offering prayer, scripture and music, acknowledging God’s presence for those who mourn and for those who long for a little light in their lives. Rides will be available for those who need one.
In worship, we will be continuing our Advent series focusing on the four gospels. This week we will focus on the Gospel of Luke. The text will be Luke 1:46-55 and my sermon title is “Luke: Scattering the Proud—Lifting the Lowly”. The Chancel Choir will be singing at the first service.
Finally, the December First Press is available. Click here to download. Paper copies are available around the church building.
Stay in One Peace,
Howard