weekly letter

December 3, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

We move into the church season of Advent even as we move into the more popular "holiday season" with its endless activities, some of which delight us, others of which overwhelm us.  Joyce Rupp offers a helpful reminder.

 

     Could there be any better time than Advent to focus on and remember that God dwells in our midst?  I find it particularly necessary to be aware of God's nearness when I am zooming through December, busy about too many things.  It is easy to get swallowed up by my anxiety or discouragement, knowing that I am unable to do all the planning and preparations I would like to do before Christmas comes.

     I draw inspiration and encouragement when I recognize that the one whose birth I am preparing to celebrate, dwells in the midst of all my activities and relationships.  I have only to open my inner eyes and recognize the presence of God in the love, joy, care, concern, honesty and peace of those around me.  I also need to be mindful of how God is present in those who have very little joy because of their physical or mental condition, financial deprivation, or the violence of their political situation.  It is here that I meet the suffering Christ. Busyness dulls my awareness of the presence of Emmanuel.  Excessive attention to material things lessens my bond with God.  God is with me, if only I slow down long enough to look and see.

(from Inviting God In)

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 7, 2nd Sunday of Advent, Holy Communion:

     Isaiah 40:1-11

     2 Peter 3:8-15

     Mark 1:1-8

 

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, December 6, 8am, at Paneras (Richmond Road).  Feel free to stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows.  No rsvp required.

 

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 7, with our series, The Christmas Stories.  This Sunday we will focus on "Joseph's Dream" (Matthew 1:18-25).  Feel free to join the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

CHRISTMAS SEASON POTLUCK- Our traditional congregational potluck to celebrate the Christmas season will be held on Sunday, December 7, immediately after worship, in Trinity Hall.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert.  Don't miss this festive occasion for all ages. 

 

Annual Christmas Party - Our annual Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, December 14, 3 - 5pm, at the home of Irene and Alan Bloomfield, 1202 Delong Place.  This traditional gathering is an opportunity for adults to share Christmas cheer.  Bring an hors-d'oeuvre or dessert item. 

 

ATTENTION Walnut Hill Women:  Natalie Watt and Dorothy Brockopp invite all Walnut Hill women to a dinner and conversation at Buddy's restaurant on Wednesday, December 10, 6:30 p.m.  Each attendee will purchase her own meal.  The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss future women's programs/meetings, including possible dates, topics, speakers, etc.  Please rsvp to Natalie or to the church office (Walnut.hillchurch@verizon.net or 263-5304) before December 3.  You may also rsvp via the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer. 

 

Youth Christmas Party - Youth, their families (parents too!), and other guests are invited to a Christmas Season gathering at the home of Mike, Barb, and William Ward, on Sunday, December 21, 6:30 - 8:00pm.  Youth (and any youth guests or siblings present) should bring a fun gift (under $5 value) for a random gift exchange and a household cleaning item (or two) for donation to KY Refugee Ministries. Rsvp to Mike and Barb (276-4285).

 

Thanks, news, etc...

     *Thanks to...Carol and Norman Drury for lighting the Advent candle this past Sunday; Ruth Sharrard for crafting the Advent wreath; the Talbott family for crafting the ornaments for the "Giving Tree" and to all those who picked up ornaments; Dave Sharrard and Gene Brockopp for some needed repair on the big screen t.v.

     *We continue to receive donations toward the Athens-Chilesburg Elementary School 5th Grade class trip to Washington, DC.  So far we have received $1,688 toward the total $5,885 required to underwrite the participation of 11 children who otherwise would be unable to participate.  Gifts of any size are welcome.  Thanks to all who have donated so far.

     *The Presbytery of Transylvania will be meeting this Friday and Saturday at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington.  Mike Ward will be attending this meeting.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward