Thoughts of Thanksgiving
Last Sunday’s Valley Shore Interfaith service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Old Saybrook was a wonderful experience, probably the finest service (in my estimation) since before the pandemic. Eleven of my colleagues participated, representing ten different faith communities. The combined choir, which featured four of our own choir members, offered some moving musical pieces under Meg Gister’s direction. St Paul’s bell choir brought a delightful interlude, there were three thoughtful reflections, and the worship space, which I hadn’t visited before, is beautifully appointed. The service fit the season perfectly.
Did you hear? The United Church’s Outreach Committee collected more than $2500 in gift cards for distribution last weekend! You are all so generous, thank you to everyone who helped with this effort. And it bears noting that it wasn’t just our congregation; multiple members of our wider community stopped by the church office to make their own contribution as well. I’m grateful that local folks recognize and participate in this aspect of our church’s ministry, as we live into God’s invitation to be a force for good in our neighborhoods and our world.
This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent. I’m grateful for the folks who have stepped forward to light the Advent Wreath this year, and I would remind you that there are still a few Advent Devotionals left in the narthex, if your family hasn’t picked one up yet. I occasionally joke about how quickly this season comes upon us then passes: it seems like we go to sleep Thanksgiving night and wake up January 2. All right, maybe it doesn’t fly by quite that fast, but with all the activity of the season, I would remind all of us to slow down, savor the many opportunities for observance, and let the Christ child come to each of us in our own way and time.
Links to Sunday’s bulletin and service can be found here: