Greetings parish,
December has arrived, with Christmas ever nearer; advent calls us to slow down, to see the journey clearer. This Sunday, we will combine peace with belief, revisiting Isaiah’s vision of the peaceable kingdom, a psalmist’s cry for justice, John the Baptist’s call to repentance, and Paul’s embrace of Gentile believers. Like the questioning Virginia, who asked a newspaper editor if Santa is real, we, too, seek assurance that the prophetic promises of restoration are real. Join us Sunday, as we light two advent candles, renew our faith, and share the gift of holy communion.
Our men’s fellowship breakfast will gather tomorrow morning at 7:30 am, and the youth group will join me for our fourth Confirmation encounter (10 am to 2 pm). Following Rev. Russ Peppe’s Sunday advent class, I invite you to a special candlelight, Blue Christmas worship service (5 pm), especially designed to facilitate healing for those who have sustained loss and find celebration difficult at this time of year.
On Saturday, December 10th, 4 pm, I invite you to our ‘Sounds of the Season’ Christmas Concert featuring the Wesleyan Singers, UMCA Handbell Choir, Park Avenue Pickers, Mitch Thomas and Friends, and our gifted organist, Ryan Slocum. Homemade cookies to follow! There is no charge, but a free-will donation will be collected to support winter programs with the homeless through City Mission.
- Please note other upcoming opportunities:
- Christmas Pageant, 12/18. 10:30 am
- Christmas Eve Services, 12/24, 5:30 pm & 9 pm
- ONE Christmas Day service at 10:30 am
- Youth Group Overnight at Camp Mechuwana, New Year’s Eve/Day
RESPITE CARE NEEDED: Karen Dionne, who lives with and cares for Pastor Kay Webb, is looking for a Respite Care provider, 15-20 hours per week, (207) 998-5343.
Advent grace,
Pastor Steve Bascom