Dear Friends,
I hope all of you are experiencing a joyous Advent season as we prepare our hearts to celebrate Christmas in just a few days. Of course, to do so, we have to overcome a whole lot distractions. From my perspective, one of those distractions is the energy that some of us are tempted to expend worrying about the so-called “war on Christmas.” We are told that we should be offended that some businesses or individuals greet people with the words “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” Jim Wallis, author and editor of Sojourner’s Magazine offers a different take on this issue that I found thought provoking–check it out at http://sojo.net/blogs/2011/12/15/real-war-christmas-fox-news#.TuqcvqAgsaU.facebook. I would have preferred for Wallis to have left out what seems to me to be some gratuitous shots at Fox News, but otherwise I think he gives us some powerful food for thought.
This Sunday at MUMC, we come closer to drawing Jesus’ family circle to a close as we turn our attention to Mary–faithful, brave, and courageous Mary. We will be turning to Luke 1:26-37 for insight into the heart and mind of this amazing hero of our faith. Take a look at this passage before Sunday morning to enrich your worship experience. Also, don’t forget that as part of our church’s participation in the Advent Conspiracy, we’ve been encouraging our members and friends to spend less on gifts, and to take some of the money they haven’t spent and give it to the poor. This effort will culminate this Sunday as we will be taking a special offering during both services. This year, we are giving you the opportunity to give to two different ministries that are helping the poor, one of them local (SHARE Outreach of Milford) and the other global (Living Water International). You will be able to decide how you want your gift to be allocated–you can give it all to one or the other ministry, or split your gift between the two in whatever way you would like. You can learn more about SHARE at http://www.water.cc/. Please pray about what you are being called to do in response to this opportunity to celebrate Jesus’ birthday by reaching out to the people that Jesus spent so much of his time when he was here on earth.
I look forward to seeing you all this Sunday!
Still discovering the joy,
Pastor Tom
TIMELY REMINDERS
CHRISTMAS CONCERT this Sunday, 7:00 p.m.
One of the highlights of the year is MUMC’s annual Christmas Concert. You already know that there is a whole lot of musical talent at our church, so you can imagine what its like when all of our talented musicians (and dancers!) come together to sing and play and dance their hearts out in celebration of Christmas. Don’t miss this Christmas extravaganza, and don’t forget to invite your family, friends, and neighbors!
BLUE CHRISTMAS service this Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” or so we are told. But for many people, Christmas is not so merry. If you or someone you know is having a difficult time during this holiday season, whether because of the loss of a loved one, being out of work, or just feeling down, this service is especially created for you. Come join us for a time of quiet reflection and healing.
BONE MARROW DRIVE Many of us have been praying for Julie Spicer, a friend of MUMC who is battling an aggressive form of cancer. Doctors have informed her that her survival depends on a bone marrow transplant. Her daughters have organized a bone marrow drive in hopes of finding a match. All that is needed is for folks to show up at one of three locations on Saturday, December 23, and get a cheek swab done to determine if you are a possible match. Please continue to pray for Julie and her family, but it would be great if a whole bunch of MUMC folks showed up to support her by registering as a potential donor; who knows, you may be giving her the gift of life this Christmas! Specific details are available at http://www.wmur.com/health/30005986/detail.html
SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGING As of yesterday, there were still a few slots available this weekend for those who might be able to ring the bells for the Salvation Army at area grocery stores. The available times are
Saturday
Shaws 3-4 p.m.
Market Basket 3-4 p.m.
Sunday
Shaws 2-3 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.
Market Basket 3-4 p.m.
Stop & Shop 12-1 p.m. and 1-2p.m.
If you are available and willing, please contact Liane Wright
