Greetings to all!
If the path to Christmas might be thought of as a "spiritual pilgrimage" to
Bethlehem, then this year's journey seems to be taking us through some
challenging territory. We need only mention places like Ferguson, Sydney,
Manila, and Peshawar (Pakistan) to think of the troubles facing the human
community, and these not even to mention the local "places" of our own
lives that might make us abandon the journey. As we travel, let us not forget
that such "places" do not contradict the Christmas story, but rather remind us
that its message of peace, hope, joy, and love are as needed today as they
were 2,000 years ago. I am reminded of a poem by Ann Weems.
In each heart lies a Bethlehem,
an inn where we must ultimately answer
whether there is room or not.
When we are Bethlehem-bound
we experience our own advent in his.
When we are Bethlehem-bound
we can no longer look the other way
conveniently not seeing stars
not hearing angel voices.
We can no longer excuse ourselves by busily
tending our sheep or our kingdoms.
This Advent let's go to Bethlehem
and see this thing that the Lord has made known to us...
This Advent, let's go to Bethlehem
and find our kneeling places.
(from "The Search for Our Kneeling Places," as found in Kneeling in
Bethlehem)
The scripture lessons for Sunday, Dec 21, the Fourth Sunday of Advent...
Isaiah 9:2-7
Titus 2:11-14
Luke 2:1-20
Sunday Conversations continue this Sun, Dec 21, 10am, in Trinity Hall.
Our topic for this Sunday is Isaiah:The Voice of Advent, focusing on
Isaiah 9:2-7. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the conversation, or just listen in.
Christmas Communion - The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be
celebrated this Sunday, December 21, 11am, the beginning of our Christmas
week observance.
WALNUT HILL CHRISTMAS PARTY - The annual Walnut Hill Christmas
Party is scheduled for this Sunday, December 21, 3pm -5pm, at the Davis
residence. Bring an hors-d'oeuvre or dessert item. This party is intended for
adults.
The Giving Tree - Giving Tree gifts and ornaments are due back at
Walnut Hill by this Sunday, December 21, so that they might be distributed
to the children and youth before Christmas Day. Let us know by reply email
if you would like to help deliver gifts to the families receiving them
CHRISTMAS EVE, DEC 24, AT WALNUT HILL CHURCH
*5:00pm - Lessons and Carols - All ages are invited to gather for
this special service of scripture readings and Christmas carols to make
our hearts ready to welcome the Christ-child. Flameless candles will be
used to allow safe participation by all ages.
*9:00pm - Evening Prayer Fireside - This quiet service around the
fireplace in Trinity Hall will include scripture, carols, prayer, and candle-
light. Arrive a bit early to enjoy some hot cider and cookies.
Exodus: Gods and Kings is the title of a recently released movie inspired
by the biblical story of the Exodus. Youth (middle and high school) are
invited to view and discuss the film together during the holiday break. Use
reply email to request more details.
2015 Stewardship - As you might be aware, our recent stewardship letter
included a response card that was misprinted and possibly confusing.
You may access a corrected response card at the following link:
Walnut Hill Can Count on Me! . Thanks to all those who support
Walnut Hill with their time, talents, and resources.
"Deck the Halls" - This Saturday, December 20, we will be decorating
the Sanctuary for Christmas. Use reply email if you would like to help,
and we will provide you more details.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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