The third week of Advent invites us to reflect on joy—not a fleeting happiness, but a deep and abiding joy rooted in God’s presence with us. On the night of Jesus’ birth, that joy was first announced to the shepherds. As they watched their flocks in the fields, angels appeared and declared, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).

The shepherds were unlikely recipients of such important news. They were ordinary, overlooked, and far from centers of power. Yet God chose them to hear the first proclamation of Christ’s coming. Their joy was not found in changed circumstances, big promotions, or lavish gifts, but in the assurance that God has come near—Emmanuel, God with us.

That same joy moves the shepherds to action. They go with haste to see the child, and afterward return to their fields “glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen” (Luke 2:20). Joy, when received, cannot be contained—it leads to worship and witness.

May we remember that Christ’s joy is for all people and meets us right where we are. Like the shepherds, may we hear the good news, go toward the light, and carry that joy with us into the world.
 
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Join us on December 24th at 6:00 pm for a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. Nursery care will be available for this service.
New Year’s Eve Communion and Prayer
On New Year’s Eve, December 31st, from 6:00-7:00 pm join us for a time of prayer and communion in the chapel. This is a come and go service for all ages to attend. 
Weekly Prayer in the Chapel
You are invited to a weekly time of prayer in our Chapel this Tuesday evening from 6:00-7:30 pm. This is a come and go experience for all ages and we look forward to joining in prayer together. Weekly Prayer will pause during the Christmas holidays on December 23rd and 30th. Prayer in the Chapel on Tuesday evenings will resume on January 6th. Holiday Schedule ChangesSunday Evening Activities pause for the Christmas Holidays and return January 11th.Sunday Morning Sunday School will not meet on December 28th and returns on January 4th at 9:00 am.Sunday Morning Donuts and Discussion for children and students will not meet on December 28th but will return at 9:00 am on January 4th.
 Budget Business Meeting
Save the Date for the annual Budget Business Meeting on January 11th after the worship service. 
Summer Save the Dates
As you begin planning Summer activities and vacations here are a few dates to add to your calendars:Dude Camp: May 24th – 27thHS Camp Quaker Haven: June 3rd – 9thJH Camp Quaker Haven: June 8th – 13thVacation Bible School: June 22nd – 26th 
Bell Practice
Bell Friends practice on Thursday December 18th at 12:30 pm in the Coffee Cafe. After a break for the holidays, Bell Friends will resume practice on January 8th.