Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” - 2 Corinthians 9:15
Dear Friends in Christ,
The blessed season of Advent will be ending this Sunday. And the day will soon be upon us when friends and family celebrate the love and joy of Christmas. And gifts will be given to commemorate that amazing love that came among us one fated night so long ago.
This wonderful gift given to the world was one that the Apostle Paul called "indescribable!" The idea of God Almighty, Holy and Divine, coming to earth wrapped in swaddling clothes seemed simultaneously unfathomable and awe inspiring. It truly is one of the most beloved stories of all times. Throughout the centuries, the story of Jesus’ birth has taken on many forms but the indescribable gift always remains. Because at its core – it is a story of Holy love that breaks through all barriers and leaves us changed forever.
As we approach Christmas day, we are reminded of that gift of love that is born into the world once again. As community, we will observe the coming of the Messiah in a few different ways this season – so be sure to mark your calendar for the following services:
This Christmas Season, as I reflect on the greatest gift we could ever receive - the gift of eternal love- I am struck by the many gifts that each of you bring to this community of faith. It is with a full heart that I continue with you all on this adventure of being God’s people – loved and beloved – here in the community of Nanoose Bay and beyond.
May the truly indescribable gift of God be made known to you and yours this Christmas, and may God be with you in countless ways as we journey though the new year together.
Love and Blessings,
Kirsten +
The Church Office is Closed Between Christmas and the New Year
It will be re-open on Wednesday, January 3rd at 9 am.
The 2024 Church Calendars have Arrived
You can pick one up this Sunday, Sunday December 31st or from the office during the first week of January. They are $10 each.
The 2024 Church giving envelopes are ready for pickup at the back of the church.
We are finding quite a few sets of envelopes left over every year and they are not cheap! If you no longer require them, please let Malcolm know. Just a regular envelope can be used with your offering number. If you don’t know it, call KAT. You can always sign up for the electronic plate PAR program too. We must order a whole year in advance, so if not picked up this year, they will not be reordered. If you have any questions, please call Kirsten or KAT.
JANUARY 2024 READINGS
January 7 – Baptism of Our Lord
Genesis 1:1-5 Psalm 29 Acts 19:1-7 Mark 1:4-11
January 14 – 2nd Sunday after Epiphany
1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) Psalm 139:1-5, 12-17 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 John 1:43-51
January 21 – 3rd Sunday after Epiphany
Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Psalm 62:6-14 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 Mark 1:14-20
January 28 – 4th Sunday after Epiphany
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Psalm 111 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Mark 1:21-28
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
January 10 Margaret N
January 22 Dagny N
January 29 John S
January 30 Fred H
January 31 Will L
JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES
January 15 Shirley & Alan B
January 26 Sue F & Will L