December 2, 2022
Dear Saints,
Advent Greetings in the name of our crucified, risen, and ascended Lord and coming Savior Jesus Christ!
With the New Year less than a month away, I am writing to bring to your attention our responsibility for a constitution update. Following the Churchwide Assembly in August 2022, we received editorial amendments to the Model Constitution for ELCA congregations. In compliance with the update, copies of Messiah’s Constitution reflecting these changes are available for your review. You will find said copies in the narthex and in the church office. Please take a moment to review the highlighted changes. The Church Council will present the said amendments in accordance with C16.04 of Messiah’s Constitution at the Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 22, 2023, for approval by majority vote.
On another note, I extend to you an opportunity to host a meal for the staff, children, and families of our Daycare. On Thursday, December 15 at 6:00 p.m., the Daycare will have a festive program and we will provide and serve a meal to approximately 65 individuals. Please let me know of your intention to contribute and serve the meal. Think of this as a wonderful opportunity to get to know the staff and families and share Christmas cheer with them.
During the Advent/Christmas season, we would like you to join us for special services. On Saturday, December 17 at 5:30 p.m., there will be a festive service complete with Christmas Cantata and the Eucharist. Then, return on Sunday, December 18 at 9:30 a.m. for the Christmas Program by the Sunday School and youth of our congregation. Also, it is my hope and prayer that you will stay for the Christmas dinner immediately following the Christmas program in the Fellowship Hall.
On Christmas Eve, we will worship at 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The first of these will be a family friendly service. You should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before these services to receive festive music by members of our community. I assure you that you will not be disappointed because the offerings of music at both services will fill your hearts with joy, hope and peace at Christmastide. Also, at the late service, we will celebrate the Light of Christmas. So, plan to attend these celebratory services and receive the promised wonderful gift of God’s redeeming love fulfilled in the Christ Child.
Finally, there will be NO worship services on Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, and New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1. A blessed Advent, Merry Christmas, and Spirit-filled New Year to you!
In Christ’s service,
Pastor Orin