The imagery of the Isaiah passage is one of idyllic harmony and peace. If only we could exist like this today. There is a Christmas song which says, "why can't this Christmas feeling exist among all people through the year." Thank goodness we have a baby who will usher in peace, a peace which surpasses all understanding and calms our hearts. Please join us as we light the second candle of Advent - The Candle of Peace.
Readings
Isaiah 11:1-10 - The Old Testament Reading
Psalm 72:1-7. 18-19
Romans 15:4-13 - The New Testament Reading
Matthew 3:1-12 - The Gospel
The liturgy, readings and hymns of the day can be found in the bulletin link below.
I know I long for the day when our world will be at peace. Several parts of the world face a peak Christmas with war in their cities and towns. Let us remember them this Christmas as we meet the new born baby Jesus Christ who will be the Prince of Peace. Pray for them to receive the hope and peace He will bring.
Announcements
We are pleased to welcome all visitors to in person worship. Thank you for joining us! Welcome to those people watching online. Each Sunday there are a number of people who join us on the web and we want to acknowledge how grateful we are to have you worshiping with us. If this is your first time watching us virtually, Christ Church is located in the historic downtown area in Longwood. For more information visit - www.christchurchlongwood.com.
Or come visit us, we would love to welcome you in person.
Ann Cooper a former member of the church who provides us with those beautiful quilts for the fall festival, called to say she loves you and misses you especially at holiday time.
The Stewardship Campaign ends today as we bring forward our pledges to the Lord and His mission for the church. Your pledge is a signal that you understand God's vision and mission for His church. You will have the opportunity to present your pledge during the service.
The vestry needs you! If you are interested in being on the vestry, please make an appointment to meet with Mother Michelle to discuss your participation in the vestry.
The God at Work Capital Campaign will continue as there is so much to be repaired on the buildings.
The Advent Series - The Case for Christmas continues.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to The Sharing Centers Christmas Food Bags. Your generosity will touch many families this Christmas. A total of 38 bags were collected with several gift cards. Thank you to Lee, her granddaughter and Ginger for getting the bags ready and to Sandy who delivered the bags on Thursday.
We would like to wish God's blessings and safe travels to Elaine Dyson as she prepares to relocate to Chicago. Elaine will be missed not only for her involvement in several ministries but also as a friend, a helper in sickness and a confidant to us all. Elaine Godspeed until we meet again. Elaine will be returning to the area as she finishes up her business here and for vacation.
Help us to decorate the altar area with poinsettia! Poinsettia can be given in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for someone or something. Please fill out the sheet at the back of the church. Cost for each poinsettia is $10.00.
After much prayer and deliberation and in consultation with the vestry, I have made the decision to cancel service on Sunday Dec 25- Christmas Day. Please make every effort to attend the Christmas Eve Service which begins at 10pm Dec 24. Invite and bring your family and friends to this family service in our charming historic sanctuary.
Dates to mark on your calendar:
Dec 4 - Return Pledge Cards - attached pledge card forms
Dec 11 - Christmas Caroling to Nursing Homes - CarPool 3:30pm
Dec 24 - Christmas Eve Service 10pm Caroling, 10:30 pm Service
Dec 25 - Christmas Day - NO SUNDAY SERVICE
Dec 26 - Christmas Day Observed - Church Office Closed
Jan 1 - Sunday Service - 10am
Jan 2- New Year's Day Observed - Church Office Closed
Jan 15 - First Responders Service - See flyer attached
Jan 22 - Annual Parish Meeting - 11:45am during fellowship hour
Do you have updates on those we have been praying for? How may we pray for you?