Friends,
Christmas is the time to celebrate the miracle of the incarnation – God with us. And indeed, especially this year, I have felt that God is with us, even though we cannot be with each other.
Our Christmas Eve service was filled with beautiful music and the retelling of the story of the birth of Christ. Thanks to all who participated and made that evening service so special. Our worship service on Sunday, December 27th, was a particular delight for me to be able to share worship with three of my pastor colleagues from Lectio Jubilate (a group that has been meeting together annually for 20 years!). I hope that you were touched by the experience of hearing hymn reflections and worshipping with Christians in three other congregations across the country. This coming Sunday, January 3rd, we will again worship with these three other congregations. We will hear reflections on ‘Star Words’ and celebrate Epiphany – the revelation of the Christ child to the Magi.
Lots will be happening in the life of our congregation in the month of January – ordination and installation of new elders for Session, our annual congregational meeting, a virtual chili cook-off, and other exciting things. But I’ll wait until next week to start telling you about those plans.
For now, I am thankful that vaccines have arrived, and people in our community are starting to receive their first round of vaccinations. I look forward to the day when we all have been vaccinated and can feel comfortable gathering again for worship and study and fellowship.
See you in the new year!
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Jack