First Pres Digest 11/28/17

11/28/2017

Dear Friends in Christ:
I hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving with family or at the least, someone you have adopted as your family.

It has been such a whirlwind of events in our church, I think that is why I got sick - and apparently am still sick as I write this email. Fortunately, I am getting better, but it's taking a lot longer than I expected, probably because there hasn't been time to just rest and get better.

I promise to just rest today and tomorrow, so that I can think clearly and speak well before the First Sunday in Advent! By the way, that is this Sunday, December 3rd, also Communion Sunday. If memory serves, I believe Richard is our December Deacon!

We had a very good Saturday, when we let go and remembered Marjorie McKenzie (also known by many as "Mrs. McKenzie"). If you had trouble locating her obituary online, here is a link and photo of her here. Many many thanks to Robin, the Deacon who really got us organized for a fellowship meal which would have made Marge proud. Thanks to all who pitched in and donated their time and the food!

Don't forget the two big events this Saturday:
Men's Breakfast at 8:00AM in Fellowship Hall
Hanging of the Greens at 9:00AM - let's meet in Fellowship Hall for our assignments

Watch Out! If you happen to be hanging out in the Sanctuary this week, please take care to avoid the choir loft. There are some boxes up there which should be gone before Saturday. They have to do with the "Special Surprise!"

Calling all Musicians and Readers!
I'm getting a late start this year, but I will be asking for your help with music and readings for this special season of Advent.

The First Sunday of Advent always starts off with a bang. The lectionary is usually filled with apocalyptic imagery and the admonition to believers to "keep watch" and be expectant of the Lord's coming. Here's a link to this Sunday's readings:  First Sunday of Advent

Upcoming Dates
Saturday, Dec 9th noon - PW Christmas Party - prayer partners revealed
Friday, Dec 15th 7:00PM - Christmas Cantata at Center Street United Methodist.
Saturday, Dec 16th 6:00PM - White Elephant Christmas Party at our church - bring a gift to share and some nibbly food to share

Prayers:
Please note that the prayer list is short, since we were a bit light on attendance this past Sunday.
Families in grief during the holiday season
Reese Goldston - sports injury
Robert and Mona (Betty Ragan's family) who have moved to out of the country
Thanksgiving that prayers are answered!

This past Sunday's sermon and scripture readings are attached. May God bless you and keep you this week.
Much love,
Rev. Amy