Christmas is a special time of joy as we look forward to the birth of our Savior. Jesus’ birth fulfilled the coming of the promised Messiah for God’s chosen people as foretold in the Old Testament. Sometimes the holiday season can bring some sadness as we remember people no longer with us or experience loss of family who went to our heavenly home at Christmas time, but we can still have God’s comforting presence with us, and reach out to share his love with others who really need some extra help.
The Christmas Joy offering is a wonderful way to share God’s love with others. The offering is divided evenly between retired and current pastors and their families experiencing unusual hardship and students of color who need some financial help while attending Presbyterian-related schools.
On December 7th, 14th and 21st readers will read true stories telling how people have been helped by this offering. On December 21st we will have the opportunity to give our gifts to help people who really need some assistance. Offerings can still be given through the 11th of January, either in the collection plate clearly marked for “Christmas Joy, in the mail, or online.
Readers for Advent will be: Margaret K on the 7th, Linda R on the 14th, and Ruth R on the 21st.