December Newsletter
December Newsletter
PREACHER'S PART
A Season of Hope and Anticipation
As the air cools and autumn gives way to winter, we begin to seek light in the
midst of the growing darkness. The Christmas season draws near, and it’s tempting to leap straight into the celebrations—eager to stand at the side of the manger, ready to welcome the Christ Child into our hearts and homes.
Typically, I’m someone who waits for the “right time” to sing Christmas carols or put up decorations, often holding off until Thanksgiving has passed. But this year feels different. Life feels heavier, with more demands and stresses than usual. In the midst of it all, I’ve found myself reaching for hope sooner than expected.
This year, our Christmas tree went up on November 15th—a little early for us. But those sparkling lights now brighten our home, pushing back the darkness that seems to creep in earlier each day (at what feels like 4 in the afternoon!). That glow has become a beacon of warmth and hope, inviting me to reflect on the season not as one of immediate arrival but as one of anticipation.
Advent is just that: a time of preparation, of journeying, of waiting. This year, I’ll journey through this season for a bit longer than usual. My prayer is that the path will be one of meaning, filled with moments that remind us of the hope we have in Christ.
Wherever you find yourself this Advent season—whether you are brimming with hope or weighed down by despair—I invite you to join me on this journey. In worship, we will explore the places that shape the Christmas story, each offering a deeper understanding of the season:
• Rome – A Place of Longing
• Jerusalem – A Place of Waiting
• Nazareth – A Place of Simplicity
• Bethlehem – A Place of Humility
And finally, together, we will arrive at the manger—the birthplace of the greatest hope humanity has ever known.
May this season be one of light, warmth, and renewal for you and your family.
In Christ,
Pastor David
midst of the growing darkness. The Christmas season draws near, and it’s tempting to leap straight into the celebrations—eager to stand at the side of the manger, ready to welcome the Christ Child into our hearts and homes.
Typically, I’m someone who waits for the “right time” to sing Christmas carols or put up decorations, often holding off until Thanksgiving has passed. But this year feels different. Life feels heavier, with more demands and stresses than usual. In the midst of it all, I’ve found myself reaching for hope sooner than expected.
This year, our Christmas tree went up on November 15th—a little early for us. But those sparkling lights now brighten our home, pushing back the darkness that seems to creep in earlier each day (at what feels like 4 in the afternoon!). That glow has become a beacon of warmth and hope, inviting me to reflect on the season not as one of immediate arrival but as one of anticipation.
Advent is just that: a time of preparation, of journeying, of waiting. This year, I’ll journey through this season for a bit longer than usual. My prayer is that the path will be one of meaning, filled with moments that remind us of the hope we have in Christ.
Wherever you find yourself this Advent season—whether you are brimming with hope or weighed down by despair—I invite you to join me on this journey. In worship, we will explore the places that shape the Christmas story, each offering a deeper understanding of the season:
• Rome – A Place of Longing
• Jerusalem – A Place of Waiting
• Nazareth – A Place of Simplicity
• Bethlehem – A Place of Humility
And finally, together, we will arrive at the manger—the birthplace of the greatest hope humanity has ever known.
May this season be one of light, warmth, and renewal for you and your family.
In Christ,
Pastor David
A Note From Pastor Donnie
Christmas is around the corner. Most of us begin preparing early for our various Christmas traditions. There are family traditions, our own personal traditions, and, as Christians, we have our Christmas traditions which for many ultimately peak when attending a Christmas Eve service.
As we, sometimes frantically, shop for Christmas presents and prepare meals for family and friend gatherings, we will sometimes hear, “remember the reason for the season.” What is the reason for the season? I believe most would respond, “To celebrate the birth of Jesus.” Some traditions are to have a birthday cake for Jesus and sing Happy Birthday.
It is good many Christians are intentional about remembering Jesus throughout the Christmas season, but Christmas was totally different on the day Jesus was born. I don’t know how many times I have referred to the day Jesus was born as, “That first Christmas day,” forgetting Jesus wasn’t born on Christmas day.
What? Christmas didn’t exist when Jesus was born. Within the Jewish culture, birthdays weren’t even celebrated. It wasn’t until 336 AD that, without explanation, Rome declared Jesus was born on December 25. Knowing this is helpful to understand the significance of the birth narratives found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke that were written late in the first century, before Christmas.
When the first gospel, the Gospel of Mark was written, it began with the baptism of Jesus. Mark had no interest in writing about the birth of Jesus. Likely, due to the belief Jesus would be returning sooner than later, Mark was more interested in having the good news of Jesus Christ spread both far and near as quickly as possible.
Whether the author of Mark intended it or not, when he began his gospel with the baptism of Jesus, some felt the need to proclaim Jesus had been the Son of God from His birth. For this reason, it is believed by many to be the reason the authors of Matthew and Luke added birth narratives within their gospels. It could be argued that the writer of the Gospel of John wasn’t satisfied with either Matthew’s or Luke’s proclamation that God’s Son came into existence when He was born. Therefore, John placed the existence of God’s Son at the time of creation.
Back to the birth narratives found in Matthew and Luke. Though there are practically no similarities in the two accounts, they both share one message, on the day Jesus was born, whatever the year or day of the year, the God who had been invisible for centuries, paid a visit to earth so that we could see and experience the essence of God, who possessed love beyond imagination.
God loved the world so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to be born as a vulnerable baby for the salvation of the world; a baby who would grow up to be, not a conquering king who would restore Israel’s sovereignty from Rome, but a suffering king who would conquer sin and death, once and for all for believers.
What is the reason for the season? Maybe it’s more than celebrating Jesus’ birthday. Maybe we are to see Jesus’ birth as the beginning of a new era in human history that will never end, a season where the power of God’s ways is shown superior than those of humankind.
I pray, regardless of how you celebrate Christmas, you will remember you have always been a child of God. From the moment you came into existence you have been loved, and were created to love for your entire life. May the birth of Jesus 2,000 years ago remind you that on that day, the world was turned upside down, never to be the same.
“Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and[ in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
~Pastor Donnie
As we, sometimes frantically, shop for Christmas presents and prepare meals for family and friend gatherings, we will sometimes hear, “remember the reason for the season.” What is the reason for the season? I believe most would respond, “To celebrate the birth of Jesus.” Some traditions are to have a birthday cake for Jesus and sing Happy Birthday.
It is good many Christians are intentional about remembering Jesus throughout the Christmas season, but Christmas was totally different on the day Jesus was born. I don’t know how many times I have referred to the day Jesus was born as, “That first Christmas day,” forgetting Jesus wasn’t born on Christmas day.
What? Christmas didn’t exist when Jesus was born. Within the Jewish culture, birthdays weren’t even celebrated. It wasn’t until 336 AD that, without explanation, Rome declared Jesus was born on December 25. Knowing this is helpful to understand the significance of the birth narratives found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke that were written late in the first century, before Christmas.
When the first gospel, the Gospel of Mark was written, it began with the baptism of Jesus. Mark had no interest in writing about the birth of Jesus. Likely, due to the belief Jesus would be returning sooner than later, Mark was more interested in having the good news of Jesus Christ spread both far and near as quickly as possible.
Whether the author of Mark intended it or not, when he began his gospel with the baptism of Jesus, some felt the need to proclaim Jesus had been the Son of God from His birth. For this reason, it is believed by many to be the reason the authors of Matthew and Luke added birth narratives within their gospels. It could be argued that the writer of the Gospel of John wasn’t satisfied with either Matthew’s or Luke’s proclamation that God’s Son came into existence when He was born. Therefore, John placed the existence of God’s Son at the time of creation.
Back to the birth narratives found in Matthew and Luke. Though there are practically no similarities in the two accounts, they both share one message, on the day Jesus was born, whatever the year or day of the year, the God who had been invisible for centuries, paid a visit to earth so that we could see and experience the essence of God, who possessed love beyond imagination.
God loved the world so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to be born as a vulnerable baby for the salvation of the world; a baby who would grow up to be, not a conquering king who would restore Israel’s sovereignty from Rome, but a suffering king who would conquer sin and death, once and for all for believers.
What is the reason for the season? Maybe it’s more than celebrating Jesus’ birthday. Maybe we are to see Jesus’ birth as the beginning of a new era in human history that will never end, a season where the power of God’s ways is shown superior than those of humankind.
I pray, regardless of how you celebrate Christmas, you will remember you have always been a child of God. From the moment you came into existence you have been loved, and were created to love for your entire life. May the birth of Jesus 2,000 years ago remind you that on that day, the world was turned upside down, never to be the same.
“Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and[ in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
~Pastor Donnie
Streaming services
Advent Services
Christmas Services
Blue Christmas
December 18, 2024 6:00 pm
We all know that our Christmas experience isn’t always the joyful time of year our culture, both religious and societal, expects us to have. Sometimes, the loss of someone we love saps the joy out of the season. Other times, life just isn’t going as well as we would like. Join us for our Blue Christmas service on December 18 at 6 p.m. This service is a time when we are given “permission” to acknowledge our sorrow in a time when we are often expected to feel joy. This service is intended to help make a space for both grief and joy during this Christmas season. The service will be in the sanctuary and on Zoom.
We all know that our Christmas experience isn’t always the joyful time of year our culture, both religious and societal, expects us to have. Sometimes, the loss of someone we love saps the joy out of the season. Other times, life just isn’t going as well as we would like. Join us for our Blue Christmas service on December 18 at 6 p.m. This service is a time when we are given “permission” to acknowledge our sorrow in a time when we are often expected to feel joy. This service is intended to help make a space for both grief and joy during this Christmas season. The service will be in the sanctuary and on Zoom.
Family and Children's Christmas Eve Service
December 24, 2024
5:00pm - Family and Children's Service:
Come All Ye Families of all shapes and sizes. Join us for a fun, family-friendly Christmas Eve service. Every element of this service has been designed with families and kids in mind (whether you’re 1 or 99). We will sing familiar Christmas songs, watch a video or two explaining the Christmas story. Crying babies and kids running up and down the aisles are welcome. The more the merrier.
5:00pm - Family and Children's Service:
Come All Ye Families of all shapes and sizes. Join us for a fun, family-friendly Christmas Eve service. Every element of this service has been designed with families and kids in mind (whether you’re 1 or 99). We will sing familiar Christmas songs, watch a video or two explaining the Christmas story. Crying babies and kids running up and down the aisles are welcome. The more the merrier.
Come all for the service where we pull out all the stops! We will have the organ, piano, choir, bells, and more! This traditional Christmas Eve service consists of scripture, music, and a message of hope. We will end the service by lighting candles and lifting them high as we celebrate that the light of Christ has come into the world at Christmas. If you are looking for the "Classic" Christmas Eve Service, this is for you.
Hospitality
Hospitality will be providing cider and hot chocolate for the Stories with Santa Event on December 6th.
Our big event for December is Christmas Eve. There will be cider and coffee plus lots of goodies to welcome all to our Christmas Eve services. We will be serving between the two services. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO FILL OUR TABLE WITH GOODIES. You can bring your donation to the church on Sunday, Dec. 22nd or take them to the kitchen on the 23rd. This will give us time to plate them for the 24th. Thank YOU for helping us to provide a warm welcome to all who come to worship with us.
Our big event for December is Christmas Eve. There will be cider and coffee plus lots of goodies to welcome all to our Christmas Eve services. We will be serving between the two services. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO FILL OUR TABLE WITH GOODIES. You can bring your donation to the church on Sunday, Dec. 22nd or take them to the kitchen on the 23rd. This will give us time to plate them for the 24th. Thank YOU for helping us to provide a warm welcome to all who come to worship with us.
Adult Advent Sunday School
“An Unlikely Advent” our Advent Bible Study will begin on Sunday Dec. 1,2024 at 11 am.
Perhaps more than any other holiday, Christmas is heavy on the decorations. Many homes and church feature a Nativity scene: a re-creation of Jesus’ birth consisting of figurines representing people who were present for Jesus’ birth or who arrived shortly after.
A typical Nativity includes baby Jesus in a manger, Mary and Joseph, some shepherds, one or more angels, three wise men, and assorted animals. Not only do shepherds and magi surround Jesus in our Nativity scenes, but they also are the subject of the songs we sing and the stories we tell to the children.
In addition to these well-known Nativity scene figures, there are other people we meet in the story of Jesus’ birth whom we rarely, if ever, see in our Christmas decorations. Before we meet Mary and Joseph, the Gospel of Luke introduces us to Elizabeth and Zechariah, parents of John the Baptist. During Matthew’s story of the magi or wise men, we run into King Herod, the villain in the Christmas story. Like the shepherds and magi, these other figures can teach us important lessons about who we are as children of God and followers of Christ.
Our four week study will take a closer look at some of the unlikely people we encounter in the stories about Jesus’ birth.
These will be open sessions so don’t worry if you cannot make all 4 Sundays. Join us when you can. Please bring a bible. We will also have bibles available.
Perhaps more than any other holiday, Christmas is heavy on the decorations. Many homes and church feature a Nativity scene: a re-creation of Jesus’ birth consisting of figurines representing people who were present for Jesus’ birth or who arrived shortly after.
A typical Nativity includes baby Jesus in a manger, Mary and Joseph, some shepherds, one or more angels, three wise men, and assorted animals. Not only do shepherds and magi surround Jesus in our Nativity scenes, but they also are the subject of the songs we sing and the stories we tell to the children.
In addition to these well-known Nativity scene figures, there are other people we meet in the story of Jesus’ birth whom we rarely, if ever, see in our Christmas decorations. Before we meet Mary and Joseph, the Gospel of Luke introduces us to Elizabeth and Zechariah, parents of John the Baptist. During Matthew’s story of the magi or wise men, we run into King Herod, the villain in the Christmas story. Like the shepherds and magi, these other figures can teach us important lessons about who we are as children of God and followers of Christ.
Our four week study will take a closer look at some of the unlikely people we encounter in the stories about Jesus’ birth.
These will be open sessions so don’t worry if you cannot make all 4 Sundays. Join us when you can. Please bring a bible. We will also have bibles available.
Pastor's Discretionary Fund
Each communion Sunday we have a basket for those who feel called to give above and beyond their pledge. This "second-mile" giving will help fund the pastor's discretionary fund, which helps meet community needs as they arise, such as gas, lodging, clothing, etc. Feel free to bring your spare cash and change to help make a change in the lives of those in need.
The Church Mouse
The Church Mouse
The Church Mouse
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men.”
Luke 2:14
Sing His Glories
Music is a vital part of Christmas. From sacred hymns and carols to popular and historical favorites, everyone enjoys the sounds of the season. We go caroling to share our joy and holiday spirit with friends and neighbors. We download classics from beloved performers and tune in to radio stations devoted to playing nothing but Christmas music around the clock. We sing in choirs and perform classical cantatas and sacred music that has been sung for many years.
But none of it can compare to the sounds of the heavenly host as they announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds and rejoiced in songs of jubilation, the likes of which have never been heard. We’re privileged to enjoy beautiful music this time of year, and to use it to worship the birth of our newborn King.
Today, let the song in your heart emerge from your lips in praise of Christ’s birth! Hallelujah!
Merry Christmas to All!
~The Church Mouse
Luke 2:14
Sing His Glories
Music is a vital part of Christmas. From sacred hymns and carols to popular and historical favorites, everyone enjoys the sounds of the season. We go caroling to share our joy and holiday spirit with friends and neighbors. We download classics from beloved performers and tune in to radio stations devoted to playing nothing but Christmas music around the clock. We sing in choirs and perform classical cantatas and sacred music that has been sung for many years.
But none of it can compare to the sounds of the heavenly host as they announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds and rejoiced in songs of jubilation, the likes of which have never been heard. We’re privileged to enjoy beautiful music this time of year, and to use it to worship the birth of our newborn King.
Today, let the song in your heart emerge from your lips in praise of Christ’s birth! Hallelujah!
Merry Christmas to All!
~The Church Mouse
Missions
Mission Committee introduced a new Mission Focus for November…Rocky Mountain Kids. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to working with teenagers who have experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect. There are two girl’s and two boy’s houses. There 24 kids between the 4 houses, at this time.
We support these kids throughout the year with Valentines, Easter baskets, Back to School supplies, Halloween goodies (They are not able to go Trick-or-Treating) and Christmas stockings. We will be decorating the stockings on Sunday, December 8th during Fellowship Time.
We support these kids throughout the year with Valentines, Easter baskets, Back to School supplies, Halloween goodies (They are not able to go Trick-or-Treating) and Christmas stockings. We will be decorating the stockings on Sunday, December 8th during Fellowship Time.
December Monthly Mission
December: Mission Focus is Christmas Unlimited, which is a mission the church has supported for many years. It is dedicated to serving families in the Pikes Peak Region with year round programs. Last year Christmas Unlimited served over 2,100 families and 5,100 children through their programs. There is a list of requested items in this newsletter. There will be a box in the Narthex for your donation.
From Christmas Unlimited:
“Please donate now - the holiday season is almost here and Christmas Unlimited needs your financial support! Unfortunately, inflation has decreased the number of donations we have received. Without additional funding, we may not be able to continue our 102-year-old mission of providing new Christmas gifts and school supplies to children and families who are less fortunate throughout the Pikes Peak Region.
Established in 1923, Christmas Unlimited is one of the region’s oldest 501 (c) 3 non-profit charities in Colorado Springs. Last year, we served 8,756 children from 2,500 families. Because we are a completely volunteer run organization, we rely on the community’s financial assistance to help cover essential operating expenses which have increased dramatically in recent years.
We have been helping families celebrate the beauty of Christmas gift-giving by enabling parents or caregivers to select toys for their children in a store-like setting. Parents “shop” without their children so the youngsters will be surprised by their gifts on Christmas morning. The entire process is festive, friendly, and fun; all in the spirit of helping a child experience the magic of Christmas.
Christmas Unlimited greatly appreciates any and all donations. Thank you so much for your consideration and support.”
Monetary donations should denote December Monthly Mission or Christmas Unlimited.
They are especially in need of:
Toys for 0-5 years old including: Fisher Price toys and Little People sets, Littlest Pet Shop, Bluey, Cocomelon, Paw Patrol, PJ Mask, anything Disney, Farm animals, zoo animals, dinosaurs, military men, little girls makeup, Lincoln Logs, Nail polish sets, Legos, Duplos, building sets, large toy cars, trucks, trains, motorcycles, Games, craft activity sets and art classes, LOL Dols and baby dolls, Barbie and Barbie clothes, kitchen play sets: toy food, dishes, tea sets, Nerf Guns and balls, Play-Doh sets, toy musical instruments, remote control vehicles, hats, scarfs, mittens, holiday pj’s
Please denote in your check memo line: monthly mission or Christmas Unlimited or put on the offering envelope. If you are donating on line select Monthly mission: December.
From Christmas Unlimited:
“Please donate now - the holiday season is almost here and Christmas Unlimited needs your financial support! Unfortunately, inflation has decreased the number of donations we have received. Without additional funding, we may not be able to continue our 102-year-old mission of providing new Christmas gifts and school supplies to children and families who are less fortunate throughout the Pikes Peak Region.
Established in 1923, Christmas Unlimited is one of the region’s oldest 501 (c) 3 non-profit charities in Colorado Springs. Last year, we served 8,756 children from 2,500 families. Because we are a completely volunteer run organization, we rely on the community’s financial assistance to help cover essential operating expenses which have increased dramatically in recent years.
We have been helping families celebrate the beauty of Christmas gift-giving by enabling parents or caregivers to select toys for their children in a store-like setting. Parents “shop” without their children so the youngsters will be surprised by their gifts on Christmas morning. The entire process is festive, friendly, and fun; all in the spirit of helping a child experience the magic of Christmas.
Christmas Unlimited greatly appreciates any and all donations. Thank you so much for your consideration and support.”
Monetary donations should denote December Monthly Mission or Christmas Unlimited.
They are especially in need of:
Toys for 0-5 years old including: Fisher Price toys and Little People sets, Littlest Pet Shop, Bluey, Cocomelon, Paw Patrol, PJ Mask, anything Disney, Farm animals, zoo animals, dinosaurs, military men, little girls makeup, Lincoln Logs, Nail polish sets, Legos, Duplos, building sets, large toy cars, trucks, trains, motorcycles, Games, craft activity sets and art classes, LOL Dols and baby dolls, Barbie and Barbie clothes, kitchen play sets: toy food, dishes, tea sets, Nerf Guns and balls, Play-Doh sets, toy musical instruments, remote control vehicles, hats, scarfs, mittens, holiday pj’s
Please denote in your check memo line: monthly mission or Christmas Unlimited or put on the offering envelope. If you are donating on line select Monthly mission: December.
Rent-A-Poinsettia
Transforming our beautiful sanctuary into a beautiful sacred Christmas space is something we look forward to every year. In the past, you have had the opportunity to purchase a poinsettia for the sanctuary décor in memory or honor of a loved one.
St. Paul’s transitioned to silk poinsettias to use for church decorations during the Christmas season. You can now choose to donate to RENT-A-POINSETTIA this holiday season.(Suggested donation is $20.) Your donation will help support St. Paul’s December Mission Focus, Christmas Unlimited, and help one of the oldest charitable organizations in the Pikes Peak region fulfill their mission: To provide material and emotional support to families in need through our school supply and holiday gift programs, while assisting youth to achieve a positive self-image through our mentoring and work skills opportunities.
With your donation, complete a RENT-A-POINSETTIA form. Your loved one will be mentioned in the December 22nd bulletin. Turn your donation and form into the offering plate during worship, or in the church office, no later than December 15th.
Order Form
Your Name:______________________________________________________
Phone Number:____________________________________________________
Color and Number of Silk Poinsettias: _________Red _________ White
In Memory of:___________________________________________________________
In Honor of:____________________________________________________________
Amount enclosed:__________________
St. Paul’s transitioned to silk poinsettias to use for church decorations during the Christmas season. You can now choose to donate to RENT-A-POINSETTIA this holiday season.(Suggested donation is $20.) Your donation will help support St. Paul’s December Mission Focus, Christmas Unlimited, and help one of the oldest charitable organizations in the Pikes Peak region fulfill their mission: To provide material and emotional support to families in need through our school supply and holiday gift programs, while assisting youth to achieve a positive self-image through our mentoring and work skills opportunities.
With your donation, complete a RENT-A-POINSETTIA form. Your loved one will be mentioned in the December 22nd bulletin. Turn your donation and form into the offering plate during worship, or in the church office, no later than December 15th.
Order Form
Your Name:______________________________________________________
Phone Number:____________________________________________________
Color and Number of Silk Poinsettias: _________Red _________ White
In Memory of:___________________________________________________________
In Honor of:____________________________________________________________
Amount enclosed:__________________
Ronald McDonald House
The Children’s Ministry has been called to collect Pop Tabs to donate to the Ronald McDonald House.
A jar will be placed in the Narthex on the information table.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Valerie Cox @ 660-2446 or Valerie.cox29@outlook.com
A jar will be placed in the Narthex on the information table.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Valerie Cox @ 660-2446 or Valerie.cox29@outlook.com
Crossfire Ministries
A big THANK YOU to all of the St. Paul’s members for contributing so many turkeys and also monetary donations to help Crossfire Ministries feed some of the needy in our community. We have such a generous congregation.
Thanks again. Lu Petersen
Thanks again. Lu Petersen
Mitten Tree
There will be a Christmas Tree placed in the Narthex for your offerings of hats, scarves and gloves. We are also collecting socks. Please bring in new socks of every size (preferable wool as they keep feet warmer and dryer).
Coat Box
We will be collecting coats for Springs Rescue Mission. A box is located in the Narthex.
TESLA
A number of students attending the TESLA school across the street from the church have some needs that you can help supply. They need deodorant (boys and girls scents), hairbrushes, toothpaste/toothbrushes, hoodies/sweaters (all adult sizes), and boys’ and girls’ t-shirts and long sleeve t-shirts (all adult sizes).
You can also donate grocery cards or money that will be used to purchase some of the above items. Any assistance you can provide will let the young people know that people care about them.
You can also donate grocery cards or money that will be used to purchase some of the above items. Any assistance you can provide will let the young people know that people care about them.
Grocery Cards
As the holidays approach, it’s never been a better time to purchase grocery cards from the church. They can be used at all Safeway and Kings Soopers stores. In addition to using them for your own grocery shopping, they make great gifts and stocking stuffers. They are as simple to use as a credit or debit card. You can purchase grocery cards for $25, $50, or $100. The cards never expire and you can use them multiple times until the entire balance on the card has been sent. Best of all, the church makes 5% of the face value of each card sold.
January Mission Focus
January: Mission Focus will be Marian House. It is a program through Catholic Charities but with an Ecumenical support base. One of its most popular programs is a soup kitchen. Last year they served 79,934 meals, gave out 300,765 lbs. of food, served 4,267 people through Family Services and served an additional 14,570 people through other services. As part of the focus on Marian House we will hope to be doing a soup lunch after a Sunday morning’s worship in January. Keep an eye on your bulletins for more information.
Communion for the Homebound
St. Paul’s members- we need your help. If you know of anyone in our St. Paul’s family who is homebound, in a nursing home, or unable to come to church for a while, please let me know their name and phone number. I will be happy to contact them and see if they would appreciate having communion brought to them. Lu Petersen, 597-2824.
December Special Days
December Birthdays
Gerry Cooper 12/1
Janice Day 12/1
Bobby Fowler 12/1
Norma Pardun 12/6
Tom Porter 12/8
Aidan Couitt 12/9
Patrick Ford 12/9
Janet Seegar 12/12
Wayne Mowery 12/12
Sue Hilty 12/13
Jaymie Pfahl 12/15
Gayle Myers 12/18
Doris Carroll 12/19
Amy Kruse 12/19
Dick Woods 12/23
Ginny Fredell 12/24
Erin Couitt 12/31
Janice Day 12/1
Bobby Fowler 12/1
Norma Pardun 12/6
Tom Porter 12/8
Aidan Couitt 12/9
Patrick Ford 12/9
Janet Seegar 12/12
Wayne Mowery 12/12
Sue Hilty 12/13
Jaymie Pfahl 12/15
Gayle Myers 12/18
Doris Carroll 12/19
Amy Kruse 12/19
Dick Woods 12/23
Ginny Fredell 12/24
Erin Couitt 12/31
December Anniversaries
Michael & Barbara Newberry
December 19, 1964
60 Years
Doug & Sharon Johnson
December 19, 1970
54 Years
John & Jackie Fletcher
December 20, 1970
54 Years
James & Beth Ford
December 21, 2017
7 Years
Bob & Sue Hilty
December 28, 1963
61 Years
Bob & Donna Rickett
December 27, 2019
5 Years
December 19, 1964
60 Years
Doug & Sharon Johnson
December 19, 1970
54 Years
John & Jackie Fletcher
December 20, 1970
54 Years
James & Beth Ford
December 21, 2017
7 Years
Bob & Sue Hilty
December 28, 1963
61 Years
Bob & Donna Rickett
December 27, 2019
5 Years
Schedule of Weekly Online & In-Person Events
View our calendar online
Sunday
9:30a Worship & Youth Sunday School
9:45a Children’s Sunday School
10:30a Fellowship Time
10:45a Exalt!
11:00a Adult Sunday School
5:00p Youth Group at St. Paul's UMC
Monday
6:30p Jubilee Bells7:00p Vocal Fusion
7:30p Barbershop
Tuesday
11:00a Line Dancing
Wednesday
8:30a Wednesday Morning Bible Study
6:30p Sanctuary Choir
Thursday
9:30a Friendship Bible Study
5:00p Brewing Faith
Upcoming Events
December Events
12/1 First Sunday of Advent
12/7 9:00a Cookie Walk
12/8 Second Sunday of Advent
12/10 5:00 p DKG in Waddill Hall
12/12 6:00p Finance Meeting
12/14 11:00a Woody Woods Celebration of Life
12/15 Third Sunday of Advent
12/17 5:30 Potluck supper
6:00p Annual Charge Conference
12/18 6:00p Blue Christmas
12/19 11:30a Worship Committee
12/19 6:00p Trustees Meeting
12/22 Fourth Sunday of Advent
Christmas Cantata
12/24 Christmas Eve
5:00p Children’s Service
7:00p Candlelight and Carols Service
12/25-12/26 Office is closed
12/29 Pastor Donnie Preaching
12/18 6:00p Blue Christmas
12/19 11:30a Worship Committee
12/19 6:00p Trustees Meeting
12/22 Fourth Sunday of Advent
Christmas Cantata
12/24 Christmas Eve
5:00p Children’s Service
7:00p Candlelight and Carols Service
12/25-12/26 Office is closed
12/29 Pastor Donnie Preaching
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