weekly letter

December 10, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

Several women play prominent roles in the Nativity story including Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, Mary the mother of Jesus, and Anna the prophetess (see Luke 1 & 2).  These gospel characters remind us of the unique role of women as they embody and proclaim the good news of God's love.  Consider the following:

 

     For centuries, women have proclaimed mercy and comfort, nurture and life-giving peace.  In each era and culture, the role of women changes, but the strength of their proclamation continues.  The blessings and the hope of the women of Christmas are important for our era and culture.  Whatever pathway a woman chooses to follow, her calling in Christ is the proclamation and blessing of Christ's presence in the world.  Through the incarnation, God cradled creation in the womb of God's Word and brought forth mercy and comfort to all peoples of the earth - indeed, to all creation.

(from These Twelve Days by James Kasperson & Marina Lachecki)

 

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 14, Third Sunday of Advent:

     Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

     1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

     Luke 1:46-55

 

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 14, with our ongoing series The Christmas Stories.  Our focus on Sunday will be The Stable at Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7).  Feel free to join in the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

Children's Presentation - The children will be presenting their interpretation of Christmas through music, word, and sign this Sunday, December 14, during morning worship.  Don't miss this wonderful presentation of the Christmas story.

 

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.  The Bloomfields remind us that easy entry (without steps) into the house can be found through the garage, so feel free to enter that way if you would like.

 

Walnut Hill Women will gather for dinner this evening, December 10, at Buddy's restaurant.  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.  Contact the Natalie Watt or Dorothy Brockopp, or call the church office (263-5304), for more information.

 

The Giving Tree - All those participating in the "Giving Tree" program are asked to return their gift items by Sunday, December 21.  Place your gifts around the "Giving Tree" in Trinity Hall.

 

Another Giving Opportunity: This is the season of giving, and another giving opportunity has arisen, namely to present some simple holiday gifts to our new Iraqi neighbors Raghad, Rania, and Zahra.  Use reply email or contact the church office if you would like to help with this giving opportunity.

 

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 the Wards or to the church office (263-5304).

 

CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE:

     Sunday, December 21, 11am - Christmas Worship and Holy Communion - This service will include a formal Christmas liturgy (with choir) and Holy Communion.

     Wednesday, December 24, Christmas Eve 

                    *5pm - Carols and Candlelight - This service of lessons and carols is intended for all ages and will include a candlelight ceremony.

                    *9pm - Evening Prayer Fireside - For those who would like a quieter Christmas Eve experience, we will gather around the fireplace in Trinity Hall for a guided reflection on the meaning of Christmas.  This service is intended for adults and older youth.

 

Thanks, news, etc....

     *Thanks to...Meredith, Katie, and Gary Swim for lighting the Advent Candles last Sunday; the Choir, JR & Elaine Horn, Ron Johnston, Aaron and Cory Sharrard for their leadership and assistance during worship; the Bohmers and the Hilliards for coordinating our Christmas potluck; Nell Horman, Amy Trail, Jo Wallen, Derek Vaughan, and other volunteers for their work with children and youth last Sunday.

     *Poinsettias for decorating the sanctuary may be sponsored by contacting Lee Tucker.  Sponsors are welcome to take their plants home after the Christmas holiday.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward