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Dear Friend in Christ,

Second helpings, twinkle lights, warm cookies, snow angels, whipped cream, mistletoe, vintage finds, slow Sundays.

These are words that Panera uses to describe the Holiday Season that is now upon us.

Even as we enjoy many of the things mentioned by Panera, our list is a little different from theirs: Advent candles, Christmas carols, the Mini-Apocalypse, Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds with their flocks, cold nights with stars that lead the way.

Our Sundays are not slow.  A better word might be deliberate.  We prepare for the coming of the Christ child by lighting, first, one candle on the first Sunday of Advent and then the next Sunday, two.  Then three, then four.  We read familiar stories and consider what they might mean for us today.   Along the way we drink hot chocolate with whipped cream, enjoy the festive lights and eat way too many holiday treats.

Our calendar of events for Advent and Christmas is now complete, and you will see it in your bulletins, the Tickertape and midweek mailing.  There are opportunities for reflection, fellowship and helping our neighbors in need.  Please participate as you are able.

The beginning of the church year and the end of the calendar year is stewardship season.  As you listen to people speak about your church and pick up and fill out your pledge card, please consider 

  • how important our Christian witness is in these days of turmoil and uncertainty
  • the blessings of our 4-church multicultural community
  • and how to answer the question, where would we be without Jesus in our lives?

Faithfully yours,

Rebecca