I’m writing this on a beautiful, sunny, 60 degree day at the beginning of November. The election is tomorrow. By the time you read this the decision will be made and I pray the country will have begun to heal and come together after the contentious campaign season.
In spite of the decorations that are already up in the stores, it’s challenging for me to think about Christmas, much less the new year, but I’m going to give it a try.
Advent, the season of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s coming, begins on Sunday, Nov. 27 with the Hanging of the Greens in both morning services, followed by a dish-to-pass luncheon at noon.
On Saturday, Dec. 10 at 11 AM there will be a worship service for any who are struggling during this holiday season. We call it our “Blue Christmas Service.” It’s a time to join with others to support one another and to hear the message of hope. Jesus Christ is the light of the world. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
The annual Christmas Cantata will be offered at both morning services on December 18.
Three Candlelight Christmas Eve services will be held on Saturday, December 24:
- 5:00 PM is the children’s service led by the children and the contemporary worship team.
- 7:30 PM is the traditional service with the chancel choir.
- 11:00 PM will include Holy Communion.
On Christmas Day there will only be one service and it will be at 11 AM. Children are invited to wear their PJs and to bring a gift they have received to be blessed.
We will hold both morning worship services on New Year’s Day. That day we will have a traditional Wesleyan Covenant Service and share in Holy Communion at both services.
January 8 is our celebration of Epiphany and the coming of the Magi to Bethlehem.
On January 15, I will begin a 4-week sermon series, based on Adam Hamilton’s book, Half Truths.
There is a lot planned to enhance our celebration of Christmas and the new year. I pray you’ll be a part of it and experience the Savior’s birth in a way the refreshes your soul and brings you lasting joy in Christ Jesus.
Christmas blessings to you and yours,
Pastor Anne
PS. Save the date! Bishop Mark Webb will be preaching at Aldersgate at the 11 AM service on February 12. You won’t want to miss it!