Simon’s Says
Advent is a time for the devotion of waiting. However, I never suspected I’d be spending the first part of Advent waiting for the annual Advent Devotional from the UCC. But here it is, arrived just yesterday, in time for us to get it into your hands the Second Sunday of Advent. Ironically, it is titled, Soon & Very Soon. (Only a churl would observe, but not soon enough.) Usually I use the devotions as a jumping-off point for my Advent sermons, but since Advent I is passed and Advent II’s sermon is already fleshed out, I have but one Sunday left (Advent IV will feature our annual Christmas Cantata). Perhaps I can find a way to knit all thirty-eight devotions together for Advent III (December 14). They will be available in the narthex this Sunday – please feel free to take one home, there are enough for every church family, and they are our gift to you.
The church has been abuzz with activity all week in preparation for Saturday’s Christmas Fair, and our Fellowship Hall is looking particularly festive! Among other things, the fair will feature a variety of baked goods (and lots of cookies!), a prepared lunch, gift baskets, Grandma’s Attic Christmas -related and boutique items, knitted goods, books galore, a silent auction and numerous other treats. I love the fact that so many local congregations are holding their fairs Saturday as well; it makes for a day of shopping that benefits so many faith communities and the good work we do together. It’s also a wonderful day to greet neighbors who stop by to check out our offerings. Many thanks to those of you who selflessly contribute your time, among other things, to make this an annual success, in particular Fair co-chairs Judy Schondorf and Brenda Johnson. Your church is grateful for your efforts. See you on Saturday!
Links to Sunday’s bulletin and service are here: