Greetings Everyone
Greetings Everyone.
His name was Homer Smith. Homer was a public school teacher at the fourth grade level. Before teaching 4th grade, he had served as a high school music teacher and was the first music teacher to organize a guitar choir. The fifty-instrument choir was invited to and played for the National Association of High School Music Teachers (I believe that was the organizational title). Because of his background and expertise, Homer was invited to become the music director at the church I was serving.
It was in a discussion with Homer that a question was raised which I had never considered. The question was, “Do Angels Sing?” “Of Course,” was my answer. “What do you think they did when they met the Shepherds on the night Jesus was born?” His response was, “That is not what the Bible says. Go back and read it.” So, I did and here is what it says:
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God…” Luke 2:13-14
Boy, was I embarrassed. I had known the text so well. I had read it for years. I may have even preached some sermons on the angelic proclamation. (For you who want a bit larger discussion on this question, go to the internet and search Do angels sing? | GotQuestions.org)
With wounded pride I wisely asked Homer, “So what’s your point?” Homer’s response was something I have never forgotten and I think is a valid observation which we ought to consider. He said, “There are some things that only we who are human beings can offer the Lord. One gift we can offer the Lord is our gratitude for his grace in forgiving our sins. Another is offering the Lord our praise in song, even if that praise falls into the category of “Make a joyful NOISE to the Lord…” as it says in Psalm 100:1. For Homer, song was a unique gift human beings give to the Lord.
The Advent and Christmas Season is filled with music. It lifts our spirit and is the river upon which much of our praise flows. We know the lyrics and the melodies and so we can sing each song from our hearts since we do not need to focus as much on the written page. Song can be a great way to worship the Lord.
This Sunday our time of worship will be filled with music and song. The Alpine Ringers will set the stage as they do our prelude. We will sing a few of the Carols of Christmas. The choir will present some special Christmas music accompanied by the spoken word as we remember and celebrate the birth of our Lord. It will be a wonderful time as we present a unique offering to the Lord, our praises of gratitude in SONG. I hope you can come and share the joy.
Preparing for Jesus’ birth with you,
Pastor Paul
News & Events
Sunday, December 10th
9:00 a.m. Bible Study
10:00 a.m. Worship Service with Pastor Paul Hayden
Monday, December 11th
5:30 p.m. Handbells practice
7:00 p.m. Choir practice
Tuesday, December 12th
7:00 a.m. Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
1:00 p.m. PW Christmas Party, see info below
Wednesday, December 13th
10:00 a.m. LAMBS
5:30 p.m. FPC Youth Night, see info below
Thursday, December 14th
10:00 a.m. Bible Babes
We would like to thank Jean Petersen and Karen Rosenberg for purchansing and hanging the exterior church greens. This is something they have done over the last several years and we appreciate their beautiful contribution.
Check out the Events Calendar for more upcoming events.
Cookies For The Christmas Stroll
We are in need of cookies! Dozens upon dozens. Cookies can be dropped off at the church Dec 5th – Dec. 8th between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. If you would like to take part in handing out cookies look for the sign up sheet in Fellowship Hall.
PW Christmas Party!
Presbyterian Women would like to invite you to their annual Christmas party on Tuesday, December 12th at 1:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Please come and join us for a time of fellowship, Christmas carols, delicious desserts, and of course door prizes. All women and guests are welcome but we would like you to Rsvp so we can be prepared. Please respond to Merri Williamson or Susan Tate. Our program will be the opportunity to share the story of a Christmas memory, a Christmas recipe, a special Christmas program or present ,or a Christmas family tradition. It will be enjoyable to hear your special memories. Come and fellowship with us.
Blessings, Susan and Merri.
Joyful Kickoff to our Church Youth Program – Making a Difference Together!
Our message this week was filled with the joy that comes from spreading love and kindness. We’re excited to share some highlights from the inaugural night of our Church Youth Program, which was nothing short of amazing!
**Fun-Filled Fellowship:**
Our first night brought together a vibrant group of 14 enthusiastic kids and six dedicated adults. Laughter echoed through the halls as we bonded over games, shared stories, and enjoyed a delicious spread of pizza. The energy in the room was contagious, setting the perfect tone for the incredible journey ahead.
**Spreading Christmas Cheer:**
One of the highlights of the evening was when we divided into teams and embarked on a special mission. Our destination? Walmart! The purpose? To select and purchase gifts for the children at the Abbie Shelter. Each team approached the task with creativity and compassion, envisioning the joy these gifts would bring to the recipients.
**Community Support:**
We are immensely grateful for the support we’ve received from YOU, our church community. Your encouragement and prayers have been instrumental in making this youth program a reality. Together, we are creating an environment where our youth can grow spiritually, socially, and make a positive impact in the world around them.
**Thank You!**
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in making our first night so memorable. Whether you were there in person, supported us through prayer, or contributed in any other way, your involvement is deeply appreciated. It truly takes a village, and we are blessed to have such a supportive and loving community.
**Praises to God:**
As we reflect on the joyous beginning of our youth program, we offer praises to God for His guidance and grace. We trust that this program will be a source of inspiration and growth for our youth, fostering a deeper connection with their faith and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
**Looking Ahead:**
The success of our first night has set the stage for an exciting journey ahead. Wednesday, December 13th 5:30 – 7pm, we meet in Fellowship Hall for Dinner and a Wrapping/Rapping party!
**How Can You Help?**
We need donations of wrapping paper THIS SUNDAY! Please place your extra rolls of wrapping paper (they don’t have to be new!) by the tree in Fellowship Hall!
Blessings, Shelle
Be aware of internet email scams
It has come to our attention that many of you received an email that looked like it was coming from Pastor Paul. This email asked for a private favor to purchase gift cards for a church member in need. Please note that this was NOT Pastor Paul. Do not purchase any gift cards or send money if asked. If you have any questions about your correspondence with Paul please call the church office at (406)862-2802.
