Dear Friends,
Do you have time for a quick thought? One of my dear memories is a Christmas night after we had opened all the presents. That night my grandfather took us, the three grandchildren, to the back room and read to us the Christmas story from the Bible. It probably lasted all of five minutes, but those five minutes were a quiet time in the midst of all the “happenings” of the day. I have never spoken to my brother and sister about that night. I don’t know if it meant anything to them. For all I know, Grandpa was trying to give the other adults in the house a few moments of quiet, but for me it remains a good memory and instructive. Perhaps your grandchildren won’t be interested, but it might be something good for you in the midst of the “happenings” of Christmas to sit once again and find the peace of Christmas. Here are a few scripture passages:
Luke 2:1 to 20
Matthew 1:18 to 25
Matthew 2:1 to 12
John 1:1 to 18
Peace on earth and good will to all.
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Worship with us at 7:30 p.m. on CHRISTMAS EVE. Our service will tell the story of Jesus’ birth through special music, Scripture, and the singing of best-loved Christmas carols. We will celebrate communion and conclude with the traditional lighting of the Christ candle and individual candles. Child care will be available for our smallest children, but we invite families to share Christmas Eve worship with even the youngest members of their family
We hope you are aware that the Mission Committee has two separate offerings this Christmas.
1. CHRISTMAS LOCAL MISSION OFFERING: Please place this offering in the envelope decorated with red poinsettias and marked “Southminster Local Mission.” This offering will be divided as follows: 75% to the Local Mission budget for 2010 and 25% to this year’s special designee, Family Shelter Services. SPC has always generously supported the Mission budget by giving at this time of the year.
2. CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING: Please place this offering in the white envelope with the red Christmas star marked “Christmas Joy Offering.” This offering is divided between the national denomination’s Board of Pensions for assistance to retired pastors and Presbyterian-supported racial/ethnic schools.
Envelopes for both offerings are in the pews now; both offerings will be dedicated on Christmas Eve. We thank you for your support of these special offerings.
We have received a holiday message from Cuba: “From the Presbytery of Havana we greet you and wish the greatest blessings of the Lord for all His creation.”
-Pastor Abel Mirabal Padilla
Winter weather has arrived, which means an even greater need for VALET PARKING. Each Sunday, we would like a “Valet” (or two) at the front door around 9:00 a.m. and then again for 15 minutes after the service to do any or all of these services: walk people to and from their cars, park cars (owners keep the keys during the service), and provide an extra arm at the front door. We need volunteers to make this possible, so please serve as a valet one Sunday. Sign-up on the sheet on the bulletin board as you enter the church.
And, as these E-Notes are going out, there’s nobody signed up to help with Valet Parking on Christmas Eve! If you want to volunteer, reply to this email.
2010 OFFERING ENVELOPES are now available in the narthex. Be sure to pick up your own, and if there are some you could deliver (for family members, friends or neighbors), please get theirs too. If you would like envelopes but there is no box prepared for you, please let the church office know or contact Ron Birchall, Co-Moderator of the Finance Ministry.
COLLEGE STUDENT BRUNCH - Tuesday, December 29, in the parlor at 11:00 a.m.
The 2009 CHURCH FINANCIAL RECORDS must be closed promptly at the end of this month. Any deposits, donations or pledges that need to be recorded in calendar year 2009 or bills to be paid from the 2009 budget must be into the church office no later than 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 31. If you have any questions, please contact either Treasurer Pat Muehl or Tom Frey. (Please note that Barb will be on vacation the week following Christmas. If you need a Check Request or any other form, please request it before December 24. Someone will check the mail daily through 12/31, and even when the office is closed you can drop things through the mail slot to the right of the front door.
There will be no E-Notes next Wednesday, December 30, while Barb is on vacation.
The FLOWER CHART FOR 2010 is now posted in the narthex. There are lots of dates available! Sunday arrangements will be $20 each. We ask that you pay for your arrangements in advance; please write “Flowers” on your check memo line.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM: DVDs of the Christmas Program are available at no cost. Please let Laura Baer know if you are interested either by phoning the church office or by email at smpcce@ameritech.net
Meet the PRIMARY CLASS! The primary class, K-2nd graders, is a very lively and large class! We have been blessed with a lot of children who like to participate. We spent the fall learning about Moses and the incredible journey that his life took. The children have done a lot of crafts, a lot of coloring, and even got to play instruments inside a tabernacle! The winter session has just started with the good news that the angel Gabriel gave to Mary about the very special baby she was going to have and will then be moving on to learn how Jesus touched many lives. Russell, Alexandria, Cori, Kayla, Kevin, Noah, Max, Elizabeth, and Ellie are a great group to be able to learn with! -Andrea Schmidt and Melissa Nachman
ROTATION UNIT: To supplement the curriculum, we will have a rotation format for grades K-middle school the weeks of January 17, 24, and 31. The purpose of having a rotation is to give the children an opportunity to experience the Word of God using various learning styles through media such as art, drama, music, etc. The Bible stories we will be using are from the New Testament times of Jesus. If you have any items that might visually aid our rotation such as rugs, pottery, wall hangings, etc. and do not mind them being used (but not handled), please contact someone in Christian Ed or one of the Sunday School teachers. Thank you.
ACOLYTE Schedule:
January 3 Maddie Frey
January 17 Dakota Dolister
January 31 Haley Jablonski
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
December 27 - No Sunday School.
January 17 - Second Helpings and all-church lunch.
January 17, 24, 31 - Rotation units for K-middle school.
Our ADULT BIBLE STUDY CLASS will not meet this coming Sunday, December 27. If you would like to read the lectionary passages for that date, they are: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26; Colossians 3:12-17; Luke 2:41-52. We will resume class on Sunday, January 3, with the following passages: Jeremiah 31:7-14; Ephesians 1:3-14; John 1:(1-9) 10-18. Join us and we’ll learn together. -Blair
YOUTH: The youth groups will not meet on December 27 or January 3. But the high school class will meet on Sunday mornings both dates with Pastor Wendy.
LADIES’ BREAKFAST PARTICIPANTS: After doing dishes at the recent Women’s Circle cookie exchange, it was noted that we could use some new dish towels for the church kitchens. How about we each bring a dish towel to our Ladies’ Breakfast on January 4, 2010? This collection of towels can then be donated to the church. Thanks. See you at breakfast, 8:00 a.m. at IHOP in Danada East!
COMMITTEE MODERATORS AND STAFF: The due date for narrative reports for the Annual Reports packets is Tuesday, January 5. Financial reports are due as soon as the figures are available. Session has called the ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION for Sunday, January 24, 2010, immediately after worship. Annual Reports packets will be available the previous week: Sunday, January 17.
PAINTING THE HALLWAY: The Property Ministry asks that members whose work is on display in the entry hall plan to remove it by Sunday, January 10, in preparation for painting. Committee members will begin taping and painting the hallway on Tuesday, January 12, at 9:00 a.m. and expect to be finished on January 13. New artwork is scheduled to be hung January 18.
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS: Barb is scheduled to have knee surgery on Friday, January 22, and will need to be out of the office for several days. If you would like to spend a few hours in the office answering the phone, greeting visitors, talking with the staff, running the copier, etc., please let us know.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
December 16, 2009
Dear Friends,
While I was standing at the pharmacy counter at Walgreen’s one of the techs said to a woman customer, “It will be only one more minute.” He was on the phone trying to sort out her insurance. The woman replied, “Is that real time or telephone time?” I had to laugh, and I said to her, “That sounds a lot like Advent.” She smiled, “You are right! Except we know that Christmas will come whether we are ready or not.” I said that I was waiting for Christ to return and for that, unlike with Christmas, there is no calendar. She said she liked that, too. Do you ever feel like you are dealing with telephone time?
Einstein said that time is relative, that the minute spent with a hot coal in your hand is longer than the minute spent holding a beautiful woman. Einstein had a way with words. Even so, he is right. As part of our devotional time at session, we each shared a small thing that had been beautiful, joyful, or funny during this season of Advent. Many shared notes of encouragement, responses to Christmas programs, memories of the past, and surprises, as when a spouse decorated the house without help. In the midst of the “one more minute” of Advent time, take a minute to consider small graces in your life and thank God.
I am thankful for you all; your faithfulness in stewardship, our shared joy in the Christmas program, the beauty of our music together, the hugs of our children, and so much more. Grace and peace in the minutes of waiting for all to be ready for receiving our Lord. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
PRESBYTERIAN READERS: Several people discussed it, and we decided not to meet tonight because we’re all too busy. Join us when we resume meeting the third Wednesday in January.
The DEADLINE FOR THE JANUARY DIALOG is early this month: it’s tomorrow, January 17!
The Women’s Circle annual CHRISTMAS SALAD LUNCHEON AND COOKIE EXCHANGE is this Friday, December 18, at 11:00 a.m. in the parlor and narthex. Program: Pat Muehl, “Christmas Art.” Salads will be provided by the members of the circle. Guests are always welcome. The cookie exchange is optional; feel free to come for lunch even if you don’t wish to participate in the exchange. If you want to exchange, bring a plate or container of your special holiday cookies and take home an equal number.
We’re looking for ANYBODY INTERESTED IN PLAYING THE NEW CHOIR CHIMES FOR THE CHRISTMAS EVE service. Must have at least a limited knowledge of note reading and be able to stay for rehearsal this Sunday right after worship. We’ll meet in the choir room.
This Sunday is our CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-ALONG SUPPER! Soup and sandwiches will start off the event on Sunday, December 20, at 5:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Participants are asked to bring a plate of cookies to provide dessert for all. Following the meal we will “break into song'” singing Christmas favorites. We promise a fun time for all! All families and friends are welcome, whatever size “family” you are. Sign up in the narthex or show up that night. It will be great fun!
Worship with us at 7:30 p.m. on CHRISTMAS EVE. Our service will tell the story of Jesus’ birth through special music, Scripture, and the singing of best-loved Christmas carols. We will celebrate communion and conclude with the traditional lighting of the Christ candle and individual candles. Child care will be available for our smallest children, but we invite families to share Christmas Eve worship with even the youngest members of their family
Head usher Lanny Russell is looking for VOLUNTEERS TO USHER ON CHRISTMAS EVE. Please let him know if you’d like to help.
Winter weather has arrived, which means an even greater need for VALET PARKING. Each Sunday, we would like a “Valet” (or two) at the front door around 9:00 a.m. and then again for 15 minutes after the service to do any or all of these services: walk people to and from their cars, park cars (owners keep the keys during the service), and provide an extra arm at the front door. We need volunteers to make this possible, so please serve as a valet one Sunday (and don’t forget Christmas Eve!). Sign-up on the sheet on the bulletin board as you enter the church.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM: Thank you to everyone who helped to make this year’s Christmas program a truly delightful and worshipful event. A special thank you to Pastor Wendy for her spiritual guidance, Suzanne Tennyson for directing the children, Peter Davidson for set design, John Sundquist for sound/equipment, Darlene Crilly for music accompaniment, Roxanne Johnson for lighting, Dan Bohi for video taping, and Barb Doppelt for providing us with the program insert. And of course, a big thank you to all the children, youth and adults who gave their time and talents to participate in the program.
DVDs of the Christmas Program are available at no cost. Please let Laura Baer know if you are interested either by phoning the church office or by email at smpcce@ameritech.net
Christian Ed will be cleaning out the supply closet during the Christmas/New Year holiday, and we are in need of SMALL AND LARGE CLEAR PLASTIC TUBS (TOTES) WITH LIDS. If you would like to donate one or more tubs, please leave them on one of the tables in the narthex and mark “Christian Ed” on it. Thank you for your help.
ROTATION UNIT: We will have a rotation format for grades K-middle school the weeks of January 17, 24, and 31. Our regular teachers, for the most part, will enjoy these three weeks off from teaching. If you have thought about teaching, this would be an excellent (and short-term) opportunity to explore your gifts. Please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net if you are interested.
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
December 27 - No Sunday School.
January 17 - Second Helpings and all-church lunch.
January 17, 24, 31 - Rotation units for K-middle school.
Our ADULT BIBLE STUDY CLASS will continue this Sunday with the following passages: Micah 5:2-5a; Luke 1:47-55; Hebrews 10:5-10; and Luke 1:39-45. Join us and we’ll learn together. -Blair
YOUTH: Be at church at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday to help with the Soup & Sandwich Sing-Along Supper, then School is almost out (!), and Christmas is coming, so we’re gonna have a LOCK IN beginning as soon has we have cleaned up from the dinner. Bring your sleeping bag, pillow, tooth brush, snacks, games, and $5 for late night pizza. Watch your facebook for the invite and let Blair know what kinds of snacks you like. We may go ice skating: Blair is looking for a location.
We hope you are aware that the Mission Committee has two separate offerings this Christmas.
1. CHRISTMAS LOCAL MISSION OFFERING: Please place this offering in the envelope decorated with red poinsettias and marked “Southminster Local Mission.” This offering will be divided as follows: 75% to the Local Mission budget for 2010 and 25% to this year’s special designee, Family Shelter Services. SPC has always generously supported the Mission budget by giving at this time of the year.
2. CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING: Please place this offering in the white envelope with the red Christmas star marked “Christmas Joy Offering.” This offering is divided between the national denomination’s Board of Pensions for assistance to retired pastors and Presbyterian-supported racial/ethnic schools.
Envelopes for both offerings are in the pews now; both offerings will be dedicated on Christmas Eve. We thank you for your support of these special offerings.
SOUTHMINSTER CHRISTMAS CARDS: Do you have a relative or friend who has everything, and you do not know what to give to them for Christmas? How about a gift to one of Southminster’s special Christmas offerings in the name of that special someone on your Christmas list? A special card with the image of Southminster’s Advent Banner on the front and a special inscription on the inside honoring the person you name and you as the gift giver is now available. For complete information, please open the attachment “Southminster Christmas Cards” that came with these E-Notes.
COLLEGE STUDENT BRUNCH - Tuesday, December 29, in the parlor at 11:00 a.m. Invitations have been mailed to students.
2010 OFFERING ENVELOPES are now available in the narthex. Be sure to pick up your own, and if there are some you could deliver (for family members, friends or neighbors), please get theirs too. If you would like envelopes but there is no box prepared for you, please let the church office know or contact Ron Birchall, Co-Moderator of the Finance Ministry.
The 2009 CHURCH FINANCIAL RECORDS must be closed promptly at the end of this month. Any deposits, donations or pledges that need to be recorded in calendar year 2009 or bills to be paid from the 2009 budget must be into the church office no later than 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 31. If you have any questions, please contact either Treasurer Pat Muehl or Tom Frey. (Please note that Barb will be on vacation the week following Christmas. If you need a Check Request or any other form, please request it before December 24. Someone will check the mail daily through 12/31, and even when the office is closed you can drop things through the mail slot to the right of the front door.
The FLOWER CHART FOR 2010 is now posted in the narthex. Sunday arrangements will be $20 each. We ask that you pay for your arrangements in advance; please write “Flowers” on your check memo line.
If you SHOP ONLINE for holiday gifts, it is now possible for a portion of what you spend to BENEFIT SOUTHMINSTER. When you buy online through the iGive.com network of over 700 online stores, Southminster will receive a percentage of every dollar you spend. For more information, including a list of online stores, just go to www.iGive.com/Southminsterpc, complete the registration form, and start shopping. All funds received by Southminster from iGive.com will be added to Southminster’s Mission Fund.
While I was standing at the pharmacy counter at Walgreen’s one of the techs said to a woman customer, “It will be only one more minute.” He was on the phone trying to sort out her insurance. The woman replied, “Is that real time or telephone time?” I had to laugh, and I said to her, “That sounds a lot like Advent.” She smiled, “You are right! Except we know that Christmas will come whether we are ready or not.” I said that I was waiting for Christ to return and for that, unlike with Christmas, there is no calendar. She said she liked that, too. Do you ever feel like you are dealing with telephone time?
Einstein said that time is relative, that the minute spent with a hot coal in your hand is longer than the minute spent holding a beautiful woman. Einstein had a way with words. Even so, he is right. As part of our devotional time at session, we each shared a small thing that had been beautiful, joyful, or funny during this season of Advent. Many shared notes of encouragement, responses to Christmas programs, memories of the past, and surprises, as when a spouse decorated the house without help. In the midst of the “one more minute” of Advent time, take a minute to consider small graces in your life and thank God.
I am thankful for you all; your faithfulness in stewardship, our shared joy in the Christmas program, the beauty of our music together, the hugs of our children, and so much more. Grace and peace in the minutes of waiting for all to be ready for receiving our Lord. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
PRESBYTERIAN READERS: Several people discussed it, and we decided not to meet tonight because we’re all too busy. Join us when we resume meeting the third Wednesday in January.
The DEADLINE FOR THE JANUARY DIALOG is early this month: it’s tomorrow, January 17!
The Women’s Circle annual CHRISTMAS SALAD LUNCHEON AND COOKIE EXCHANGE is this Friday, December 18, at 11:00 a.m. in the parlor and narthex. Program: Pat Muehl, “Christmas Art.” Salads will be provided by the members of the circle. Guests are always welcome. The cookie exchange is optional; feel free to come for lunch even if you don’t wish to participate in the exchange. If you want to exchange, bring a plate or container of your special holiday cookies and take home an equal number.
We’re looking for ANYBODY INTERESTED IN PLAYING THE NEW CHOIR CHIMES FOR THE CHRISTMAS EVE service. Must have at least a limited knowledge of note reading and be able to stay for rehearsal this Sunday right after worship. We’ll meet in the choir room.
This Sunday is our CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-ALONG SUPPER! Soup and sandwiches will start off the event on Sunday, December 20, at 5:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Participants are asked to bring a plate of cookies to provide dessert for all. Following the meal we will “break into song'” singing Christmas favorites. We promise a fun time for all! All families and friends are welcome, whatever size “family” you are. Sign up in the narthex or show up that night. It will be great fun!
Worship with us at 7:30 p.m. on CHRISTMAS EVE. Our service will tell the story of Jesus’ birth through special music, Scripture, and the singing of best-loved Christmas carols. We will celebrate communion and conclude with the traditional lighting of the Christ candle and individual candles. Child care will be available for our smallest children, but we invite families to share Christmas Eve worship with even the youngest members of their family
Head usher Lanny Russell is looking for VOLUNTEERS TO USHER ON CHRISTMAS EVE. Please let him know if you’d like to help.
Winter weather has arrived, which means an even greater need for VALET PARKING. Each Sunday, we would like a “Valet” (or two) at the front door around 9:00 a.m. and then again for 15 minutes after the service to do any or all of these services: walk people to and from their cars, park cars (owners keep the keys during the service), and provide an extra arm at the front door. We need volunteers to make this possible, so please serve as a valet one Sunday (and don’t forget Christmas Eve!). Sign-up on the sheet on the bulletin board as you enter the church.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM: Thank you to everyone who helped to make this year’s Christmas program a truly delightful and worshipful event. A special thank you to Pastor Wendy for her spiritual guidance, Suzanne Tennyson for directing the children, Peter Davidson for set design, John Sundquist for sound/equipment, Darlene Crilly for music accompaniment, Roxanne Johnson for lighting, Dan Bohi for video taping, and Barb Doppelt for providing us with the program insert. And of course, a big thank you to all the children, youth and adults who gave their time and talents to participate in the program.
DVDs of the Christmas Program are available at no cost. Please let Laura Baer know if you are interested either by phoning the church office or by email at smpcce@ameritech.net
Christian Ed will be cleaning out the supply closet during the Christmas/New Year holiday, and we are in need of SMALL AND LARGE CLEAR PLASTIC TUBS (TOTES) WITH LIDS. If you would like to donate one or more tubs, please leave them on one of the tables in the narthex and mark “Christian Ed” on it. Thank you for your help.
ROTATION UNIT: We will have a rotation format for grades K-middle school the weeks of January 17, 24, and 31. Our regular teachers, for the most part, will enjoy these three weeks off from teaching. If you have thought about teaching, this would be an excellent (and short-term) opportunity to explore your gifts. Please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net if you are interested.
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
December 27 - No Sunday School.
January 17 - Second Helpings and all-church lunch.
January 17, 24, 31 - Rotation units for K-middle school.
Our ADULT BIBLE STUDY CLASS will continue this Sunday with the following passages: Micah 5:2-5a; Luke 1:47-55; Hebrews 10:5-10; and Luke 1:39-45. Join us and we’ll learn together. -Blair
YOUTH: Be at church at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday to help with the Soup & Sandwich Sing-Along Supper, then School is almost out (!), and Christmas is coming, so we’re gonna have a LOCK IN beginning as soon has we have cleaned up from the dinner. Bring your sleeping bag, pillow, tooth brush, snacks, games, and $5 for late night pizza. Watch your facebook for the invite and let Blair know what kinds of snacks you like. We may go ice skating: Blair is looking for a location.
We hope you are aware that the Mission Committee has two separate offerings this Christmas.
1. CHRISTMAS LOCAL MISSION OFFERING: Please place this offering in the envelope decorated with red poinsettias and marked “Southminster Local Mission.” This offering will be divided as follows: 75% to the Local Mission budget for 2010 and 25% to this year’s special designee, Family Shelter Services. SPC has always generously supported the Mission budget by giving at this time of the year.
2. CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING: Please place this offering in the white envelope with the red Christmas star marked “Christmas Joy Offering.” This offering is divided between the national denomination’s Board of Pensions for assistance to retired pastors and Presbyterian-supported racial/ethnic schools.
Envelopes for both offerings are in the pews now; both offerings will be dedicated on Christmas Eve. We thank you for your support of these special offerings.
SOUTHMINSTER CHRISTMAS CARDS: Do you have a relative or friend who has everything, and you do not know what to give to them for Christmas? How about a gift to one of Southminster’s special Christmas offerings in the name of that special someone on your Christmas list? A special card with the image of Southminster’s Advent Banner on the front and a special inscription on the inside honoring the person you name and you as the gift giver is now available. For complete information, please open the attachment “Southminster Christmas Cards” that came with these E-Notes.
COLLEGE STUDENT BRUNCH - Tuesday, December 29, in the parlor at 11:00 a.m. Invitations have been mailed to students.
2010 OFFERING ENVELOPES are now available in the narthex. Be sure to pick up your own, and if there are some you could deliver (for family members, friends or neighbors), please get theirs too. If you would like envelopes but there is no box prepared for you, please let the church office know or contact Ron Birchall, Co-Moderator of the Finance Ministry.
The 2009 CHURCH FINANCIAL RECORDS must be closed promptly at the end of this month. Any deposits, donations or pledges that need to be recorded in calendar year 2009 or bills to be paid from the 2009 budget must be into the church office no later than 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 31. If you have any questions, please contact either Treasurer Pat Muehl or Tom Frey. (Please note that Barb will be on vacation the week following Christmas. If you need a Check Request or any other form, please request it before December 24. Someone will check the mail daily through 12/31, and even when the office is closed you can drop things through the mail slot to the right of the front door.
The FLOWER CHART FOR 2010 is now posted in the narthex. Sunday arrangements will be $20 each. We ask that you pay for your arrangements in advance; please write “Flowers” on your check memo line.
If you SHOP ONLINE for holiday gifts, it is now possible for a portion of what you spend to BENEFIT SOUTHMINSTER. When you buy online through the iGive.com network of over 700 online stores, Southminster will receive a percentage of every dollar you spend. For more information, including a list of online stores, just go to www.iGive.com/Southminsterpc, complete the registration form, and start shopping. All funds received by Southminster from iGive.com will be added to Southminster’s Mission Fund.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
December 2, 2009
Isaiah 11: 1-9
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse;
from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him―
the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and of power,
the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD -
and he will delight in the fear of the LORD.
He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears;
but with righteousness he will judge the needy,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth;
with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.
Righteousness will be his belt
and faithfulness the sash around his waist.
The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.
The cow will feed with the bear,
their young will lie down together,
and the lion will eat straw like the ox.
The infant will play near the hole of the cobra,
and the young child put his hand into the viper's nest.
They will neither harm nor destroy
on all my holy mountain,
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD
as the waters cover the sea.
Dear Friends,
The year I turned twenty-one I lived alone in Connecticut. My family had moved, and with the move I lost my church. I lost my church because I was too embarrassed by my parent’s divorce and no one from the congregation knew how to say hello to a young twenty-something woman on her own. I think I was the one who was lost.
That Christmas season was difficult for me. I didn’t know how to have Christmas on my own, and I hadn’t developed a healthy habit of worship yet. Neither did I know how to get around in the Bible very well. But I did want to pray. I had a vague memory of Christmas involving the prophet Isaiah. What a surprise! I was looking for words of comfort, and instead I found judgment. The first chapters of Isaiah were all about judgment; in fact they were terrifying passages about how angry God was. I gave up and tired Matthew. I didn’t get past the genealogy in chapter one.
It’s too bad. If I had pushed past the tenth chapter of Isaiah I would have found chapter 11, a real message of hope. If I had even pushed past to the second chapter of Matthew, I would have been much happier.
Sometimes we stop looking when the answer is right nearby. In this season of advent, please keep your eyes open for what God is doing. Perhaps you won’t see God doing anything. It may that you will see something that God is calling you to. Perhaps there is someone without family who would love to hear a simple, “Hello” and invitation to worship. Each week till Christmas I will be highlighting a scripture passage that may bring you “tidings of comfort and joy.” Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Don’t you just love Christmas music? Join our FESTIVAL CHOIR! Plan to join us on Thursday nights in December at 7:30 in the choir room. If you like to sing but don’t feel you can commit to choir for the entire year, here’s a short-term “fix.” We’ll sing for Sunday services and on Christmas Eve (one service that evening at 7:30), and we always follow the Christmas Eve service with a party. We’d love to have you join us for this season!
“SHARE THE SPIRIT” deadline is this Sunday. If you have selected an ornament from our giving tree, bring your gift - unwrapped! - to the narthex any time up to Sunday, December 6. If you haven’t chosen an ornament, here are some suggested gifts: activity toys, push/pull toys for toddlers, stuffed toys, dolls, building blocks, puzzles, arts/crafts kits, sports equipment, cars/trucks, gift certificates for $20 or $25 from Target, Wal-Mart, Kohl’s, or TJMaxx, or food gift cards for $20 or $25 from Jewel, Dominick’s, Ultra, or Aldi. Or, help the Sunday school collection for “Share the Spirit” by bringing warm children’s hats, gloves, and mittens.
The LADIES BREAKFAST GROUP has decided not to exchange Christmas socks in December. Instead we agreed to bring mittens or gloves for the “Share the Spirit” collection. You can bring these items to church on Sunday, December 6, or to our breakfast on Monday, December 7 (8:00 a.m. at IHOP in Danada), and we will make sure they get to the People’s Resource Center. Thanks!
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
This Sunday, December 6, is the FINAL REHEARSAL FOR THE CHRISTMAS PROGRAM! If your child has a speaking part, please practice with him/her at home to reinforce the part.
Schedule for December 6:
10:45-11:00 a.m. - Costume fittings - Sanctuary.
11:00 a.m. - Final practice/dress rehearsal. We will begin rehearsal promptly after costume fittings.
11:45 a.m. - Baked potato bar with trimmings for entire church family – Fellowship Hall
DECEMBER “SECOND HELPINGS”: Due to the Christmas program rehearsal, we will have “Second Helpings” on December 6. After adult Bible study and youth and children program rehearsal, the entire church family will enjoy a special “loaded” baked potato bar in Fellowship Hall.
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM, December 13 - “Too-oo-oo-oo Busy”
Parents, please have your child/children in the sanctuary by 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, December 13, so we can run through last minute preparations.
“SHARE THE SPIRIT” - A vision for missions: This is the last Sunday that Youth and Sunday School classes will be collecting hats and mittens. Please bring these items in any time this week and drop them off in the narthex.
ROTATION UNIT: We will have a rotation format for grades K-middle school the weeks of January 17, 24, and 31. Our regular teachers, for the most part, will enjoy these three weeks off from teaching. If you have thought about teaching, this would be an excellent opportunity to explore your gifts. Please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net if you are interested.
WHAT’S COMING UP IN CHRISTIAN ED.?
December 6 - Christmas Program Dress Rehearsal and baked potato bar lunch
December 13 - Christmas Program
No “Second Helpings” third Sunday in December (activities on Dec. 6 will be our “Second Helpings” for this month)
December 27 - No Sunday School
January 17, 24, 31 - Rotation units for K-middle school
Our ADULT BIBLE STUDY CLASS will continue this Sunday with the following passages: Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6. Join us and we’ll learn together. -Blair (There was a lectionary bookmark attached to last week’s E-Notes. If you need another copy, please email the office.)
YOUTH: At SNL this Sunday, we will be doing some planning for special events, i.e. lasertag or ???, so bring your ideas and check your school, sports, concert, etc. calendars so we can plan around the other big events in your busy lives.
S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES are invited to come hear the Singing Men of Oak Brook in their annual Christmas concert on Sunday, December 20, at 3:00 p.m. at Christ Church of Oak Brook. Tickets are $20 each. Call Lois Stevenson (630-858-9315) by December 10 to reserve your ticket.
POINSETTIAS: Order Christmas poinsettias by signing up on the chart in the narthex by Sunday, December 13. Poinsettias are $18.50 each (please write “poinsettia” on the memo line of your check) and may be taken home after the Christmas Eve service. If you choose, your poinsettia may be donated to someone who is homebound.
MUSIC NOTE FOR YOUTH AND TEENS: We’re seeking students of all ages and talents to play a verse of a hymn or Christmas carol for Prelude Music on Sunday, December 20. If interested in playing, please call the office or talk to Darlene Crilly for details.
Add this to your calendar: Friday, December 18, will be the Women’s Circle annual CHRISTMAS SALAD LUNCHEON AND COOKIE EXCHANGE at 11:00 a.m. in the parlor and narthex. Program: Pat Muehl, “Christmas Art.” Salads will be provided by the members of the circle. Guests are always welcome. The cookie exchange is optional; feel free to come for lunch even if you don’t wish to participate in the exchange. If you want to exchange, bring a plate or container of your special holiday cookies and take home an equal number.
And save this date, too! Come one, come all to a CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-ALONG SUPPER! Soup and sandwiches will start off the event on Sunday, December 20, at 5:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Participants are asked to bring a plate of cookies to provide dessert for all. Following the meal we will “break into song'” singing Christmas favorites. We promise a fun time for all! All families and friends are welcome, whatever size “family” you are. Sign up in the narthex or show up that night. It will be great fun!
Here’s one reason why we need to be able to reach our college students: COLLEGE STUDENT BRUNCH – Tuesday, December 29, in the parlor at 11:00 a.m. Invitations will be mailed to students.
VALET PARKING is available on Sundays for anyone who would like that service. In order for that offer to work, we need volunteers to assist with the parking! If you would like to volunteer to help with valet parking, there is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board as you enter the church.
If you SHOP ONLINE for holiday gifts, it is now possible for a portion of what you spend to BENEFIT SOUTHMINSTER. When you buy online through the iGive.com network of over 700 online stores, Southminster will receive a percentage of every dollar you spend. For more information, including a list of online stores, just go to www.iGive.com/Southminsterpc, complete the registration form, and start shopping. All funds received by Southminster from iGive.com will be added to Southminster’s Mission Fund.
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse;
from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him―
the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and of power,
the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD -
and he will delight in the fear of the LORD.
He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears;
but with righteousness he will judge the needy,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth;
with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.
Righteousness will be his belt
and faithfulness the sash around his waist.
The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling together;
and a little child will lead them.
The cow will feed with the bear,
their young will lie down together,
and the lion will eat straw like the ox.
The infant will play near the hole of the cobra,
and the young child put his hand into the viper's nest.
They will neither harm nor destroy
on all my holy mountain,
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD
as the waters cover the sea.
Dear Friends,
The year I turned twenty-one I lived alone in Connecticut. My family had moved, and with the move I lost my church. I lost my church because I was too embarrassed by my parent’s divorce and no one from the congregation knew how to say hello to a young twenty-something woman on her own. I think I was the one who was lost.
That Christmas season was difficult for me. I didn’t know how to have Christmas on my own, and I hadn’t developed a healthy habit of worship yet. Neither did I know how to get around in the Bible very well. But I did want to pray. I had a vague memory of Christmas involving the prophet Isaiah. What a surprise! I was looking for words of comfort, and instead I found judgment. The first chapters of Isaiah were all about judgment; in fact they were terrifying passages about how angry God was. I gave up and tired Matthew. I didn’t get past the genealogy in chapter one.
It’s too bad. If I had pushed past the tenth chapter of Isaiah I would have found chapter 11, a real message of hope. If I had even pushed past to the second chapter of Matthew, I would have been much happier.
Sometimes we stop looking when the answer is right nearby. In this season of advent, please keep your eyes open for what God is doing. Perhaps you won’t see God doing anything. It may that you will see something that God is calling you to. Perhaps there is someone without family who would love to hear a simple, “Hello” and invitation to worship. Each week till Christmas I will be highlighting a scripture passage that may bring you “tidings of comfort and joy.” Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Don’t you just love Christmas music? Join our FESTIVAL CHOIR! Plan to join us on Thursday nights in December at 7:30 in the choir room. If you like to sing but don’t feel you can commit to choir for the entire year, here’s a short-term “fix.” We’ll sing for Sunday services and on Christmas Eve (one service that evening at 7:30), and we always follow the Christmas Eve service with a party. We’d love to have you join us for this season!
“SHARE THE SPIRIT” deadline is this Sunday. If you have selected an ornament from our giving tree, bring your gift - unwrapped! - to the narthex any time up to Sunday, December 6. If you haven’t chosen an ornament, here are some suggested gifts: activity toys, push/pull toys for toddlers, stuffed toys, dolls, building blocks, puzzles, arts/crafts kits, sports equipment, cars/trucks, gift certificates for $20 or $25 from Target, Wal-Mart, Kohl’s, or TJMaxx, or food gift cards for $20 or $25 from Jewel, Dominick’s, Ultra, or Aldi. Or, help the Sunday school collection for “Share the Spirit” by bringing warm children’s hats, gloves, and mittens.
The LADIES BREAKFAST GROUP has decided not to exchange Christmas socks in December. Instead we agreed to bring mittens or gloves for the “Share the Spirit” collection. You can bring these items to church on Sunday, December 6, or to our breakfast on Monday, December 7 (8:00 a.m. at IHOP in Danada), and we will make sure they get to the People’s Resource Center. Thanks!
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
This Sunday, December 6, is the FINAL REHEARSAL FOR THE CHRISTMAS PROGRAM! If your child has a speaking part, please practice with him/her at home to reinforce the part.
Schedule for December 6:
10:45-11:00 a.m. - Costume fittings - Sanctuary.
11:00 a.m. - Final practice/dress rehearsal. We will begin rehearsal promptly after costume fittings.
11:45 a.m. - Baked potato bar with trimmings for entire church family – Fellowship Hall
DECEMBER “SECOND HELPINGS”: Due to the Christmas program rehearsal, we will have “Second Helpings” on December 6. After adult Bible study and youth and children program rehearsal, the entire church family will enjoy a special “loaded” baked potato bar in Fellowship Hall.
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM, December 13 - “Too-oo-oo-oo Busy”
Parents, please have your child/children in the sanctuary by 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, December 13, so we can run through last minute preparations.
“SHARE THE SPIRIT” - A vision for missions: This is the last Sunday that Youth and Sunday School classes will be collecting hats and mittens. Please bring these items in any time this week and drop them off in the narthex.
ROTATION UNIT: We will have a rotation format for grades K-middle school the weeks of January 17, 24, and 31. Our regular teachers, for the most part, will enjoy these three weeks off from teaching. If you have thought about teaching, this would be an excellent opportunity to explore your gifts. Please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net if you are interested.
WHAT’S COMING UP IN CHRISTIAN ED.?
December 6 - Christmas Program Dress Rehearsal and baked potato bar lunch
December 13 - Christmas Program
No “Second Helpings” third Sunday in December (activities on Dec. 6 will be our “Second Helpings” for this month)
December 27 - No Sunday School
January 17, 24, 31 - Rotation units for K-middle school
Our ADULT BIBLE STUDY CLASS will continue this Sunday with the following passages: Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6. Join us and we’ll learn together. -Blair (There was a lectionary bookmark attached to last week’s E-Notes. If you need another copy, please email the office.)
YOUTH: At SNL this Sunday, we will be doing some planning for special events, i.e. lasertag or ???, so bring your ideas and check your school, sports, concert, etc. calendars so we can plan around the other big events in your busy lives.
S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES are invited to come hear the Singing Men of Oak Brook in their annual Christmas concert on Sunday, December 20, at 3:00 p.m. at Christ Church of Oak Brook. Tickets are $20 each. Call Lois Stevenson (630-858-9315) by December 10 to reserve your ticket.
POINSETTIAS: Order Christmas poinsettias by signing up on the chart in the narthex by Sunday, December 13. Poinsettias are $18.50 each (please write “poinsettia” on the memo line of your check) and may be taken home after the Christmas Eve service. If you choose, your poinsettia may be donated to someone who is homebound.
MUSIC NOTE FOR YOUTH AND TEENS: We’re seeking students of all ages and talents to play a verse of a hymn or Christmas carol for Prelude Music on Sunday, December 20. If interested in playing, please call the office or talk to Darlene Crilly for details.
Add this to your calendar: Friday, December 18, will be the Women’s Circle annual CHRISTMAS SALAD LUNCHEON AND COOKIE EXCHANGE at 11:00 a.m. in the parlor and narthex. Program: Pat Muehl, “Christmas Art.” Salads will be provided by the members of the circle. Guests are always welcome. The cookie exchange is optional; feel free to come for lunch even if you don’t wish to participate in the exchange. If you want to exchange, bring a plate or container of your special holiday cookies and take home an equal number.
And save this date, too! Come one, come all to a CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-ALONG SUPPER! Soup and sandwiches will start off the event on Sunday, December 20, at 5:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Participants are asked to bring a plate of cookies to provide dessert for all. Following the meal we will “break into song'” singing Christmas favorites. We promise a fun time for all! All families and friends are welcome, whatever size “family” you are. Sign up in the narthex or show up that night. It will be great fun!
Here’s one reason why we need to be able to reach our college students: COLLEGE STUDENT BRUNCH – Tuesday, December 29, in the parlor at 11:00 a.m. Invitations will be mailed to students.
VALET PARKING is available on Sundays for anyone who would like that service. In order for that offer to work, we need volunteers to assist with the parking! If you would like to volunteer to help with valet parking, there is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board as you enter the church.
If you SHOP ONLINE for holiday gifts, it is now possible for a portion of what you spend to BENEFIT SOUTHMINSTER. When you buy online through the iGive.com network of over 700 online stores, Southminster will receive a percentage of every dollar you spend. For more information, including a list of online stores, just go to www.iGive.com/Southminsterpc, complete the registration form, and start shopping. All funds received by Southminster from iGive.com will be added to Southminster’s Mission Fund.
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