Dear Peace members and friends,
The excitement and festivities of Christmas are largely over. Even some of those Christmas decorations are already put away! Now is a good time for us to ponder the meaning of the coming of God in the flesh, Jesus Christ. Christ has been born in Bethlehem. But what has changed? We go back to our routines. And yet, in the world, it’s New Year’s Eve weekend. As the old year ends and the new year begins, what’s Christmas got to do with God’s newness among us?
On Sunday in worship (9:30am) we will get an idea. We will hear Luke’s Gospel story of Simeon and Anna in the Temple and their encounter with Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. Our past and future with God and with one another are somehow summarized in this old man, Simeon, holding in his arms a baby who will change the course of human history. I’ll say more in the message, “Beginning Where We Left Off.” We’ll continue to rejoice and sing carols of Christmas—Joy to the World(!)—and share in Holy Communion.
And, along with Pastor Joe and his wife, Reilly, we will welcome their son, Cameron Orner, into the life of Christian faith and the church in Holy Baptism. A joyous Sunday ahead!
One note: there will be no Education Hour (Sunday School or Adult) on Sunday. Join us in the Parish Hall following worship for fellowship and refreshments.
My gratitude and affection to all of you and I look forward to what God has in store for our congregation and in our lives in 2024!
Grace and Peace,
Mark