Greetings to all!
Well Christmas is upon us once again. Consider the following
reading for your Christmas Eve use and reflection.
This, tonight,
is the meeting place
of heaven and earth.
For this, tonight,
is the stable
in which God keeps his appointment
to meet his people.
Not many high are here ,
not many holy;
not many innocent children,
not many worldly wise;
not all familiar faces,
not all frequent visitors.
But if tonight
only strangers met
that would be enough.
For Bethlehem was not the hub of the universe,
nor was the stable a platform for famous folk.
In an out-of-the-way place
which folk never thought to visit -
there God kept and keeps his promise;
there God sends the Beloved One.
(adapted from Cloth for the Cradle)
Christmas Eve Schedule:
*5pm, Lessons and Carols: All ages invited to attend this family
celebration of the birth of Jesus. We will read the Christmas story,
sing traditional carols, assemble the manger scene, and finish with
candle light. Flameless candles will be used at this service, so that
all ages might participate with concern for fire safety.
*9pm, Evening Prayer Fireside: We will gather around the
fireplace in Trinity Hall for a quieter time of reflection and prayer to
open our hearts and lives to the love of God. Arrive a bit early to
enjoy some hot cider and cookies.
The Innkeeper's Offering will be received on Christmas Eve to
support the work of the Salvation Army in providing shelter to homeless
women, children, and families in Lexington. Cash and checks payable
to Walnut Hill Church are welcome.
*****
The schedule for Sunday, December 29...
*Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall: This Sunday's
conversation focus will be the Gospel of John's reflection on the
Incarnation.
*Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary. Nursery care and Sunday
School for children will be available during the worship hour.
*After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall. Bring a plate
of your leftover holiday treats to share.
*****
The Church's Seven Deadly Secrets is the title of a new book
by Prof Paul Jones, of Transylvania University, in which Prof Jones
explores seven "secrets" that have contributed to a case of "identity
theft" of the church's nature and purpose. Join us in Jan/Feb as
we read, reflect on, and discuss Dr. Jones' book.
*Copies of the book are available through Walnut Hill Church
for a discount price of $18.75/copy. Use reply email to reserve a
copy, or pick one up on Sunday morning. A kindle version is
available through Amazon.com.
*Join us for Dinner and Conversation with Prof Jones on
Sun, Jan 12, 6pm, at the Bronte Bistro at Joseph-Beth.
*Join us for a series of four book discussion sessions beginning
Sun, Jan 19, 4pm - 5:30pm.
*****
End of Year Giving:
Don't forget Walnut Hill in your "end-of-year"giving. Special
gifts can be placed in the Sunday offering on Sun, December 29.
Special gifts can also be mailed to the church office, and must be
postmarked by Dec 31 to count for 2013.
Also, you might want to consult your tax advisor regarding gifts
of stock or charitable IRA distributions.
Thanks to all who have supported Walnut Hill Church during
2013!
Merry Christmas!
Mike Ward
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