Our Mission Statement

Transcription

1 1501 University Avenue, Lubbock, Texas Phone: (806) Fax: (806) facebook.com/st.johnslubbock Our Mission Statement The mission of St. John s United Methodist Church is to worship and serve God with open hearts, open arms, and open minds. To respond to this calling, we will nurture each other in the Christian faith, we will work so that all people can experience God s love, and we will examine critically and respond prayerfully to the difficult issues that face us.

2 Welcome to All Welcome to St. John s United Methodist Church. If you are a first time attendee or a long-time member, you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. If you are black, brown, white or anything in between, you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. If you are gay, straight, bisexual, lesbian, or transgender you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. If you are a Native American or an immigrant friend, you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. If you are lay or clergy, male or female, gender neutral or non-binary, young or old, abled or differently-abled, rich or poor, you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. No matter what you believe or what you doubt, no matter what you count on, or what you question, you are not only welcome here, you are celebrated here. In this space we acknowledge that you are a gift of the Creator, and an individual wonder of God s creation. Together, we are family of God, because we are gathered in the name of the One who makes us one. Thank you for being here. Please make yourself at home. We are so happy to share this time of worship with you. Please feel welcome to attend St. John s 101, our informational class for visitors at 9:15 a.m., located in room 219. Information about upcoming events is located in the back of this bulletin. For more information about ministries or membership at St. John s, please: Visit our website at Facebook.com/ St.JohnsLubbock Contact our office at openminds@stjohnslubbock.org Call us at (806) Bulletin Notes: Items marked in bold print are spoken by the congregation. *Indicates the congregation is invited to stand as able. Bulletins may be recycled in the baskets located near each entrance to the sanctuary. Children in Worship We welcome children in worship and have children s worship kits available at each entrance to the sanctuary. As you leave, please return the kits to their racks. A Friendly Reminder Please silence your cell phones and other electronic devices. Special Assistance Hearing devices and large print hymnals are available from the ushers at each entrance to the sanctuary. Information for our Guests Welcome! We are grateful that you ve chosen to worship with us this week. Please let us know who you are by signing the Fellowship Pad that will be distributed by the ushers during the Gathering.

3 Christmas Eve Candlelight/Communion Service December 24, 2016 Preservice Music Gathering The Worship of God - 5:30 p.m. Service ENTRANCE Christmas Eve Reflection Prelude Rejoice, A Savior Comes Julie Wyrick Rev. Daniel Echols Rev. Daniel Echols Joyful Noise Handbell Choir Bill Ingram *Call to Worship Jamie Biggers On Christmas Eve we are offered the gift of salvation.... Let us come to the light of Christ... Let us sing a new song, bless his name, and tell of his works from day to day.... Let us offer our reverence to Emmanuel.... Let us be moved to live lives that are faithful and righteous. May Christ be born in us this night, and forevermore. The Advent Wreath Prumer Family "Bethlehem though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel." (Micah 5:2) The season of Advent, which comes comes from the Latin word adventus meaning coming or visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Advent is the beginning of the liturgical year for Christians, when we start over in a year-long cycle of telling the stories of Jesus, beginning with the longings that preceded his birth. During Advent, we prepare for, and anticipate, the celebration of the birth of Jesus, remembering that many of who lived then believed that he was the fulfillment of the longing of Jews for a Messiah and the world's own longing for, and need of, forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward to what Christians refer to as his "second coming," meaning the complete fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming. (Light all four candles of the Advent wreath.) The Christ Candle Prumer Family Episcopalian priest Phillips Brooks in 1868 wrote O Little Town of Bethlehem, the beautiful carol that captures the wonder of the infant Child. Lewis Redner added the melody which has the feel of a lullaby. Together they allow us to approach the baby's manger and take a peek inside. The third verse describes the mystery of the moment we celebrate tonight. "How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given; so God imparts to human hearts, the blessing of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin; where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in." As we light the candle of Christ, may we carry the light of all God s redeeming works into the world that all darkness may be overcome with light. (Light the center white Christ candle.) Let us pray. Jesus our Light, we celebrate your arrival with gratitude. Our lives are marked by your light, even when our circumstance seems to prove the contrary. May we hold this light in our heart and reflect it to a darkened world in the year to come. Amen. *Processional Hymn, No. 230 O Little Town of Bethlehem ST. LOUIS 2

4 PROCLAMATION AND RESPONSE Witness with our Children Sherida Hibbard Hymn, No. 206 I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light HOUSTON Verse 1 sung as the children gather. Verse 3 sung as the children depart. Verse 1: I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus. God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. Verse 3: I m looking for the coming of Christ. I want to be with Jesus. When we have run with patience the race, we shall know the joy of Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. Prayer for Illumination LesLee Taylor Holy God, send out your light and your truth to lead us to the places where new birth stirs hope. We welcome the dawn of your holy light in the world. Amen. *Gospel Lesson LesLee Taylor Luke 2:1-20 N.T. p. 58 The good news of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God. Act of Praise SyLinda Evans, piano O Holy Night Adolphe Adam ( ) Sermon *Hymn of Response, No. 234 O Come, All Ye Faithful Sending the Right Message Rev. Kevin Young ADESTE FIDELES Online Giving is possible through our website at online-giving Or scan the QR code below: Offering Prayer of Dedication THANKSGIVING AND COMMUNION Rev. Daniel Echols Offertory Anthem The Blessed Son of God Ralph Vaughan Williams ( ) Karisma Mendoza, Stephanie Council, Rob Rodgers, Daniel Patrick Hogan The blessed son of God only In a crib full poor did lie; With our poor flesh and our poor blood Was clothed that everlasting good. Kyrie eleison. (Lord have mercy.) The Lord Christ Jesu, God's son dear, Was a guest and a stranger here; Us for to bring from misery, That we might live eternally. Kyrie eleison. (Lord have mercy.) 3 All this did he for us freely, For to declare his great mercy; All Christendom be merry therefore, And give him thanks for evermore. Kyrie eleison. (Lord have mercy.)

5 *Doxology and Presentation of Gifts Hymn, No. 94 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow LASST UNS ERFREUEN The Great Thanksgiving, No. 15 The Lord s Prayer Our Father who art in Heaven hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. Giving the Bread and Cup Music for Communion Communion Solo O Tannenbaum Hymn, No. 217 Away in a Manger Hymn, No. 218 It Came upon the Midnight Clear Hymn, No. 240 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing SENDING FORTH Phillip Cammack, euphonium arr. Anschultz AWAY IN A MANGER CAROL MENDELSSOHN Communion Please approach the altar using the center aisle. You may kneel or stand at the communion rail. Please speak your name to the servers so that you may receive the bread and cup by name. We receive by intinction. (As you receive the bread, hold it until the cup is offered. Dip the bread into the cup and then eat.) When you are ready, you may return to your seat using the side aisles. If you are unable to come to the altar, please tell an usher so that we may serve you in your seat. Our communion bread is free of both gluten and egg. All people gathered to worship God are invited to receive the bread and the cup. Sharing God s Holy Light Rev. Daniel Echols For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (While the hymn is sung, the pastors will bring light from the Christ candle to persons sitting on the inner aisles who will pass the light down the pew.) *Hymn of Light, No. 239 Silent Night, Holy Night STILLE NACHT Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace. Silent night, holy night, shepherds quake at the sight; glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born! Silent night, holy night, Son of God, love s pure light; radiant beams from thy holy face with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth. Silent night, holy night, wondrous star, lend thy light; with the angels let us sing, Alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born! 4

6 *Benediction Rev. Kevin Young May the stars be extra bright, may the song of the angels be extra clear, may the love of God fill you tonight and bring joy to you and all who are near. May you hear the angelic message as though it were spoken directly to you. Do not be afraid; for see I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. The gospel says that suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace. Go in peace. Amen. (As you leave, please extinguish candles and place them in the receptacles at the exits.) WORSHIP LEADERS & ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF 5 Senior Pastor: Kevin Young Associate Pastors: Daniel Echols & Ann Akin Associate Pastor of Student Ministries: Shiloh Morris Director of Music Ministries: Justine Halamicek Communion Stewards: Nancy Krebbs, Elyse Kahler, & Sandra Oringderff Director of Children s Ministries: Sherida Hibbard Director of Youth Ministries: Lindsey Sobehrad Director of University Ministries: Alexandra Mindiola Organist: Julie Wyrick Finance Manager: Emily Johnson Office Administrator: Amy Aiello Receptionist: Bailey Skinner Facilities Supervisor: David Cranford Facilities Assistant: John Dotts Childcare Director: Trisha Castillo

7 Christmas Eve Candlelight/Communion Service December 24, 2016 Preservice Music Gathering Christmas Eve Reflection Prelude Rejoice, A Savior Comes The Worship of God - 10:45 p.m. Service ENTRANCE Julie Wyrick Rev. Ann Akin Rev. Ann Akin Joyful Noise Handbell Choir Bill Ingram *Call to Worship Leilani Fillhard On Christmas Eve we are offered the gift of salvation.... Let us come to the light of Christ... Let us sing a new song, bless his name, and tell of his works from day to day.... Let us offer our reverence to Emmanuel.... Let us be moved to live lives that are faithful and righteous. May Christ be born in us this night, and forevermore. The Advent Wreath Nuckolls Family "Bethlehem though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel." (Micah 5:2) (Light all four candles of the Advent wreath.) The Christ Candle Nuckolls Family Episcopalian priest Phillips Brooks in 1868 wrote O Little Town of Bethlehem, the beautiful carol that captures the wonder of the infant Child. Lewis Redner added the melody which has the feel of a lullaby. Together they allow us to approach the baby's manger and take a peek inside. The third verse describes the mystery of the moment we celebrate tonight. "How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given; so God imparts to human hearts, the blessing of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin; where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in." As we light the candle of Christ, may we carry the light of all God s redeeming works into the world that all darkness may be overcome with light. (Light the center white Christ candle.) Let us pray. Jesus our Light, we celebrate your arrival with gratitude. Our lives are marked by your light, even when our circumstance seems to prove the contrary. May we hold this light in our heart and reflect it to a darkened world in the year to come. Amen. The season of Advent, which comes comes from the Latin word adventus meaning coming or visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Advent is the beginning of the liturgical year for Christians, when we start over in a year-long cycle of telling the stories of Jesus, beginning with the longings that preceded his birth. During Advent, we prepare for, and anticipate, the celebration of the birth of Jesus, remembering that many of who lived then believed that he was the fulfillment of the longing of Jews for a Messiah and the world's own longing for, and need of, forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward to what Christians refer to as his "second coming," meaning the complete fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming. Digital Bulletin You can view a digital version of the worship bulletin on your tablet or smart phone. Download a free QR code reading app, then scan the QR code below, or visit: bulletins to access this and past bulletins. *Processional Hymn, No. 230 O Little Town of Bethlehem ST. LOUIS 6

8 PROCLAMATION AND RESPONSE Witness with our Children Hymn, No. 206 I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light Sherida Hibbard HOUSTON Verse 1 sung as the children gather. Verse 3 sung as the children depart. Verse 1: I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus. God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. Verse 3: I m looking for the coming of Christ. I want to be with Jesus. When we have run with patience the race, we shall know the joy of Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. Prayer for Illumination Leslie Cranford Holy God, send out your light and your truth to lead us to the places where new birth stirs hope. We welcome the dawn of your holy light in the world. Amen. *Gospel Lesson Leslie Cranford Luke 2:1-20 N.T. p. 58 The good news of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God. Act of Praise SyLinda Evans, piano O Holy Night Adolphe Adam ( ) Sermon Sending the Right Message Rev. Kevin Young *Hymn of Response, No. 234 O Come, All Ye Faithful ADESTE FIDELES Online Giving is possible through our website at online-giving Or scan the QR code below: Offering Prayer of Dedication THANKSGIVING AND COMMUNION Rev. Ann Akin Offertory Anthem Chancel Choir Candlelight Carol John Rutter (b. 1945) How do you capture the wind on the water? How do you count all the stars in the sky? How can you measure the love of a mother, or how can you write down a baby's first cry? Candlelight, angel light, firelight and starglow shine on his cradle till breaking of dawn. Gloria, Gloria in excelsis deo! Angels are singing; the Christ Child is born. Shepherds and wisemen will kneel and adore him, Seraphim round him their vigil will keep; Nations proclaim him their Lord and their Savior, but Mary will hold him and sing him to sleep. 7

9 Candlelight, angel light, firelight and starglow shine on his cradle till breaking of dawn. Gloria, Gloria in excelsis deo! Angels are singing; the Christ Child is born. Find him at Bethlehem laid in a manger: Christ our Redeemer asleep in the hay. Godhead incarnate and hope of salvation: A child with his mother that first Christmas Day. Candlelight, angel light, firelight and starglow shine on his cradle till breaking of dawn. Gloria, Gloria in excelsis deo! Angels are singing; the Christ Child is born. *Doxology and Presentation of Gifts Hymn, No. 94 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow LASST UNS ERFREUEN The Great Thanksgiving, No. 15 The Lord s Prayer Our Father who art in Heaven hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. Giving the Bread and Cup Music for Communion Communion Solo O Tannenbaum Hymn, No. 217 Away in a Manger Hymn, No. 218 It Came upon the Midnight Clear Hymn, No. 240 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Sharing God s Holy Light SENDING FORTH Phillip Cammack, euphonium arr. Anschultz AWAY IN A MANGER CAROL MENDELSSOHN Rev. Ann Akin For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (While the hymn is sung, the pastors will bring light from the Christ candle to persons sitting on the inner aisles who will pass the light down the pew.) Communion Please approach the altar using the center aisle. You may kneel or stand at the communion rail. Please speak your name to the servers so that you may receive the bread and cup by name. We receive by intinction. (As you receive the bread, hold it until the cup is offered. Dip the bread into the cup and then eat.) When you are ready, you may return to your seat using the side aisles. If you are unable to come to the altar, please tell an usher so that we may serve you in your seat. Our communion bread is free of both gluten and egg. All people gathered to worship God are invited to receive the bread and the cup. 8

10 *Hymn of Light, No. 239 Silent Night, Holy Night STILLE NACHT Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace. Silent night, holy night, shepherds quake at the sight; glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born! Silent night, holy night, Son of God, love s pure light; radiant beams from thy holy face with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth. Silent night, holy night, wondrous star, lend thy light; with the angels let us sing, Alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born! *Benediction Rev. Kevin Young May the stars be extra bright, may the song of the angels be extra clear, may the love of God fill you tonight and bring joy to you and all who are near. May you hear the angelic message as though it were spoken directly to you. Do not be afraid; for see I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. The gospel says that suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace. Go in peace. Amen. (As you leave, please extinguish candles and place them in the receptacles at the exits.) The altar flowers are given in honor of the clergy, staff, congregation, and friends of St. John s United Methodist Church by Robby Vestal. WORSHIP LEADERS & ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF 9 Senior Pastor: Associate Pastors: Associate Pastor of Student Ministries: Director of Music Ministries: Communion Steward: Director of Children s Ministries: Director of Youth Ministries: Director of University Ministries: Organist: Finance Manager: Office Administrator: Receptionist: Facilities Supervisor: Facilities Assistant: Childcare Director: Kevin Young Daniel Echols & Ann Akin Shiloh Morris Justine Halamicek Jeff Watson Sherida Hibbard Lindsey Sobehrad Alexandra Mindiola Julie Wyrick Emily Johnson Amy Aiello Bailey Skinner David Cranford John Dotts Trisha Castillo

11 ANNOUNCEMENTS New Years Day Service There will only be one service at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 1, Christmas Service Join us on Sunday, December 25 at 10:30 a.m. for a family-oriented "Happy Birthday Jesus" celebration! Dress comfortably or even come in your pajamas. Please note that there will only be one service that day. Music Rehearsals There will be no Chancel Choir, Cherub Choir or Joyful Noise handbell rehearsals for the next two weeks. Office Closure The church office will be closed Monday, December 26 - Monday, January 2. The office will reopen on Tuesday, January 3, The St. John s office staff wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season! Poinsettias Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the poinsettia fundraiser for the sanctuary. You are invited to take your poinsettias home after the Christmas Eve services tonight. Please hold the following people in prayer: Members: Family of Catherine Crawford April Baker-Padilla St. John's Homebound Friends and Family: Law Enforcement Officers Raymond Davis David Guy and Family Food Voucher Clients 10

12 Poinsettia Memorials and Honoraria In memory of: Jenny Tate, Gary, & Becky Schwintz Ginny Riggs Iris & Edwin Symonette, Josephine Holmes Alice & Wiley Hilton, Marlene Wellman T. D. & Bessie Lee Evans, C. D. & Rudy Oringderff Ray & Bernice Watson Betty Anderson Our parents: Sibyl & Palmer Biggers, Myrtle Hough & Jim Hough Charles & Louise Saathoff Robert Haynes & Mabel Adams Sue Ellen McClellan & Oliver McClellan Virginia (Ginny) Riggs, David & Billie Pillans, Parker & Johnnye Goodloe Kenneth & Mozelle Vestal Vera Perkins James & Betty Baker Rollin & Helenoire Herald Johnny & Alura Spikes Jaycene & Chancellor Vuicich My parents-alda & Violet Finckbone & my Uncle Bruce Finckbone-KIA My Mother- Charlotte MacIver. My grandparents - Alda & Violet Finckbone, John & Jackie Vassar Our parents: Zade & Dorothy Hooper & C.S. & Ora Stephenson Our Parents: Lynn & Joanna Shubet & Don & Pat Krebbs Our Parents Larry Taylor In loving memory of Scott Rickman Given by: Austin & Kim Jones, & Ainsley Schwintz Sally Abbe Jim & Margie Sorley Jim & Margie Sorley Sandra Oringderff & Sylinda Evans Jeff Watson Cindy Martin Jamie & Sammy Biggers Saathoff Family Bob & Jane Haynes Nancy & Richard Koenig Roy & Sandy Goodloe Robby Vestal Dwight Finckbone VelvetLee Finckbone Sammy & Denise Stephenson Rod & Nancy Krebbs Charles & DeAnn Britton LesLee Taylor Melba Rickman 11

13 Poinsettia Memorials and Honoraria In honor of: Given by: Rev. Archie & Donna Echols Husband Joe Nuckolls, Mary Crites, and David Cranford Rob & Monica Cowie Gloria Hille-your faithfulness is inspiring Bill Warren Cantrell's 3 sons Gene & Imogene Sorley, Jim & Margie Sorley St. John's Staff, Chancel Choir Sine Nomine Our children & grandchildren: Cecilee & Daniel Echols, Isaac & Luke, Mandy & Caiter Biggers, Palmer, Harrison, & Annabelle Janelle & Paul Jones Lora, Becky, & Jack St. John's Clergy & families, St. John's Staff Rev. Daniel & Cecilee Echols & Issac & Luke Sammy & Jamie Biggers Lynn & Ann Akin Roy & Mary Turner Jeff Watson & Michael Mitchell March/July/November Usher Team: Sally, Sarah, Miranda, & Jeff My children-velvetlee, Matt, Tim & my grandchildren My Father-Dwight. My brothers- Matt & Tim & my nieces & nephews Sarah Nuckolls-BFF Barbara Burleson Celi Zaroni Pinto, Moacyr Zaroni Pinto, Sebastiao Abdias Pinto, John Gaspard Pare' Roy & Sandy Goodloe Deborah Barger Our wonderful sons, Isaac & Luke Hazel Arnpriester Sarah Nuckolls Kay Cowie Sally Abbe Pat Cantrell Jamie Sorley The Sessom Family Cindy Martin Jamie & Sammy Biggers Saathoff Family Nancy & Richard Koenig Roy & Sandy Goodloe Rev. Archie & Donna Echols Rev. Archie & Donna Echols Robby Vestal Dwight Finckbone VelvetLee Finckbone Sally Jo Jackson Cindy & Becky J. Edson Pinto LesLee Taylor Shannon Russell Daniel & Cecilee Echols 12

14 ANNOUNCEMENTS CONTINUED Organ Update Thank you to those who have generously given to the St. John s Organ Project towards the maintenance of our beautiful organ! As of this week, we have raised $30, Please consider the Organ Project as the year wraps up so St. John s can share our organ and its beautiful music with future generations! An organ project update from our organist : St. John s received some wonderful news! The Holtkamp Organ Company (the builder of the organ used every week at St. John s) informed us that they would be able to begin work on the St. John s Organ Project this spring! The original plan had been for us to have this work done in the spring of However, due to a change in timetable for another church, space in the Holtkamp workshop has become available and our project has moved up almost an entire year. The time has come for us to move ahead with the St. John s Organ Project! This is a $70,000 endeavor to perform essential maintenance, repair, and refurbishment for our magnificent organ that has faithfully served the St. John s congregation and Lubbock community for a quarter of a century. Many of you have heard the Pipe Talk moments that have taken place during worship the last few months. Hopefully, you have a better knowledge of how the organ works and the maintenance that needs to be performed. After serving St. John s for twenty-five years, the time has come to show our organ some attention and care. The St. Johns Organ Project is an expensive endeavor, and we are asking for your help to accomplish this task. The tradition of giving at Christmas is time-honored: since the Magi brought gifts to the Christ Child, we have as a community of believers, given of ourselves and our financial resources to our families, friends, churches, charities, and personal projects. Please consider a gift to the St. John s Organ Project this Christmas. For some of you, end-of-year giving is a way to lighten your tax liability. If a tax-deductible donation to the St. John s Organ Project is right for you, please take advantage of this opportunity to help raise the funds necessary to repair and modernize our organ, and simultaneously reduce the amount of federal income tax you may owe. Please visit our website at to give online. You can also send a check to the church office with organ written in the memo line. As I have said many times over the last few months, Jeannie and I are in for this project, and I hope you will be, too! Thank you! Clint Barrick St. John s Organist 13

15 Ministry Events and Opportunities Saturday, 24 December 5:30-6:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Service- Sanctuary 10:45-11:50 p.m. Christmas Eve Service- Sanctuary Sunday, 25 December 10:30-11:30 a.m. Worship Service- Sanctuary 11:30-12:30 p.m. Happy Birthday Jesus Celebration- Garden Room Monday, 26 December All Day Tuesday, 27 December All Day Wednesday, 28 December All Day Thursday, 29 December All Day Friday, 30 December All Day OFFICE CLOSED OFFICE CLOSED OFFICE CLOSED OFFICE CLOSED OFFICE CLOSED St. John s United Methodist Church has been affiliated with Reconciling Ministries Network since 1998, when we adopted a statement affirming the sacred worth of all God s children, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. We celebrate our diversity, and we welcome all people to join us in our journey together toward greater understanding and mutual respect. 14

16 St. John s thanks you for spending the holidays and 2016 with us. We are grateful to have such a welcoming congregation and the opportunity to help lead more people to God. Thank you to all of the hard-working staff, volunteers, church members, and visitors who help keep St. John s running and successful. We wish you and your family a joyous Christmas and exciting New Year! We hope to see you tomorrow morning for our last service of 2016.