DECEMBER AT A GLANCE
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ADVENT SERMON SERIES
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As the season of Advent unfolds, we find ourselves invited to pause and rediscover the wonder of Christmas through Rev. Dr. Glen Miles' engaging sermon series titled "Begin Again: Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas." This year, Glen will take a unique approach by exploring some of our favorite Christmas movies, revealing the deeper messages of hope, transformation, and community that resonate with the true spirit of the season.
**Week 1: Sunday, December 1 –
"You're a Blessing: Buddy the Elf's Journey"**
Kicking off the series, Glen will focus on the heartwarming journey of Buddy from the beloved movie Elf. Drawing on the scripture from Luke 1:26-38 and Isaiah 43:1-7, this sermon will remind us that, each of us is a blessing, and that embracing our unique role in the world can illuminate the path of hope during this festive season.
**Week 2: Wednesday, December 4 at The Gathering –
"We Can't Go Alone: White Christmas"**
Join us at The Gathering for a special midweek service, as Glen takes us through the classic film *White Christmas*. Through the lens of Ruth 1 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, he will explore the importance of companionship and the strength we find in community, especially during this time when we gather to celebrate and support one another.
**December 8: Children's Musical at 9 and 11 am (North)**
On December 8, we will delight in the joy of our children and youth as they perform their annual Christmas musical during the 9 and 11 am services. Note that there will be no sermon this Sunday, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the creativity and spirit of our youth. There will be no Sunday School of childcare as children of all ages are invited to stay in worship for the musical.
**Week 3: Sunday, December 15 – "Do the Good that is Yours To Do: The Grinch's Transformation"**
On the third Sunday of Advent, Glen will reflect on *How the Grinch Stole Christmas* and the transformative power of goodwill. Using texts from Luke 3:7-16 and Isaiah 58:9b-12, this sermon will inspire us to consider the good works we are called to do in a world that often feels disconnected, reminding us that compassion has the power to change hearts.
**Week 4: Sunday, December 22 – Hope is Worth the Risk: A Muppet Christmas Carol**
As we approach Christmas, Glen will share insights inspired by *A Muppet Christmas Carol*. He will delve into the story of hope and redemption through Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:46-55, emphasizing that the journey toward hope can sometimes require courage and risk, but it is always worth it.
This Advent season, let us gather as a community to reflect and celebrate the messages of love, joy, and transformation embodied in these classic films. Each week will offer a chance to connect our faith with the magic of Christmas, equipping us to carry the spirit of the season into our lives and the world around us. We look forward to sharing this journey with you!
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THE GATHERING, DECEMBER 4
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| On Wednesday, December 4, at 5:30 we will join for a complimentary meal of pizza, salad and dessert, followed by a worship service at 6 pm. The service will be very similar to a 9 am Sunday service, with Tim Carlson leading the singing. Glen Miles will continue my Advent sermon series with Part 2, "We Can't Go Alone: White Christmas," inspired by the movie White Christmas! |
CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS
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| We are excited to celebrate the 50th annual Carols for Christmas concert on Saturday, December 7 at 4 PM in the North sanctuary. This special event will showcase the beautiful sounds of the season, featuring performances by the Cambridge Choir, Chancel Choir, Whitechapel Ringers, and the Marble Cliff Singers. You’ll enjoy remarkable selections from talented composers like Peter Warlock, Donald McCullough, Abbie Betinis, and more! |
CHRISTMAS YOUTH MUSICAL
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| Don’t miss our Youth Christmas Musical, “iHope Christmas,” presented on Sunday, December 8 at 9 and 11 AM in the North sanctuary. This heartwarming story follows a group of kids who create their own web show in search of inspiration for their Christmas special. Please note that on this day, there will be no Sunday school or childcare, so we encourage families to worship together and enjoy the performance. We hope to see you there as we come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas! |
The gathering, December 11
Harmonies of Hope and The k-5 Christmas Workshop
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Join us for the Harmonies of Hope: Common Grace Christmas Worship Concert on December 11, a heartwarming evening filled with festive music, fellowship, and delicious food. The concert will feature a mix of traditional carols and contemporary worship, including a lively sing-along section for all to join in.
Before the concert, enjoy a tasty dinner starting at 5:30 PM with chicken nuggets, fresh salad, and assorted desserts. The concert begins at 6 PM and is perfect for all ages, so invite your friends and family to celebrate the true meaning of the season together! |
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We hope your child will join us at the 71st annual Christmas Workshop which will take place at First Community North on Wednesday, December 11 from 6-7:15 pm. This event is a chance for children to make gifts and Christmas decorations for family and friends. As children grow, learning to thoughtfully give and not just receive at Christmas can enhance their understanding of the spirit of this sacred season and help nurture an awareness of the needs of others.
Christmas Workshop projects are geared toward elementary-age children, but younger children are welcome if accompanied by a grown-up. Please register for this event by December 8 so we can prepare materials for your child.
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CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT
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| You're invited to our Christmas Movie Night on December 15 in Wing Grace Hall at FC North! Join us at 5 PM for a delicious pizza supper, followed by treats like cookies, popcorn, and hot chocolate. At 5:30 PM, we’ll enjoy the classic holiday film, A Muppet Christmas Carol, on the big screen. Feel free to wear your coziest Christmas pajamas for a relaxed atmosphere. This is a perfect opportunity to come together, enjoy good food, and soak in the holiday spirit with friends and family. We can't wait to celebrate with you! |
LONGEST NIGHT
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| Join us for a special Longest Night service on December 18 at 6 PM at First Community North, Sanctuary, as we come together to acknowledge the complexities of the season. While many celebrate joy and light, others may experience loss or struggle, and this service offers solace and hope through reflection and connection. Enjoy supper at 5:30 PM in Wing Grace Hall, featuring mini sandwiches, chips, and delicious desserts, as we nourish both body and spirit in fellowship. Everyone is welcome in this special service as we create a space of healing and hope this holiday season. We look forward to seeing you there! |
CHRISTMAS EVE
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4 pm South, Sanctuary - Traditional Children's Service
Join Early Childhood Director Leigh Anne Easterling and Rev. Sarah Kientz for this special children's service where you will hear the Christmas story and see the holy family.
5 pm North, Wing Grace Hall- Family Service
Join Rev. Dr. Glen Miles, First Community Clergy, and the Common Grace band for this contemporary family service.
6 pm South, Sanctuary - Lessons and Carols
Join Rev. Dr. Glen Miles, First Community Clergy, and choir for this traditional lessons and carols service.
8 and 10 pm North, Sanctuary - Lessons and Carols
Join Rev. Dr. Glen Miles, First Community Clergy, combined choirs, and orchestra for this traditional lessons and carols service.
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CHRISTMAS MEMORIALS
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| Purchase a Christmas Memorial |
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