Hi Friends,
Last week our kids made their own candles to use at home during the Advent season. Parents have sent photos showing us various practices their families have taken up with these candles. I pray that each of you find moments to ponder the themes of Advent, especially in the simple moments families share at home.
This week we will light the candle of peace during worship, and I have found myself grateful for the reminder and comfort of God's peace. Even the simple act of sitting in the presence of candlelight for a few minutes and slowing down to breathe can ground us in the peace we are always promised in Christ. I look forward to worship tomorrow as we continue to move through Advent together!
Kids Choir
We are so excited for our kids to help lead us in worship at our annual Candlelight Carol Service on December 11th. As a reminder, our kids above nursery age will be singing two songs at this special program, as well as participating in our nativity. For now we are focusing on the first song. Here is a song sheet and here is a recording so they can practice at home. Our hand-motion guru, the fabulous Cynthia, made this video to help kids practice their movements at home, too. Please mark your calendars for the dates:
December 10 — Carol Service Rehearsal for kids from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
December 11 — Carol Service (kids should arrive at 5:30 PM)
Public Theology and Local Partnerships Interest Meeting
You are invited to find out more about our partnerships with LA Voice and the Clergy Community Coalition before worship tomorrow at 9 AM in the Southside Room. Pastor John Jay, Andrea Vocos from LA Voice, and our own Cynthia Kirby will be there to share more about what these partnerships mean and ways for you to get involved with local outreach and initiatives to create a more just and thriving city. Breakfast will be served, and we will have childcare available at that hour for those with kids. Please let us know if you plan to attend and need childcare.
SUNDAY
KIDS
Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 10:20 AM.
Our kids five to ten years old will join their families in the sanctuary for worship. We love their presence in worship and the chance to be together to share in communion. You might want to have some discussion this week about how your kids are experiencing church and our worship service. It's a great time to let them ask questions, too!
Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:
What is the meaning of the Advent candle we light?
What is one part of worship that you enjoyed?
What are you still wondering about after being in worship this week?
YOUTH
This week our youth will gather for our regular lunch and discussion after worship. Yay! We are so excited to hang with our youth. Parents can pick them up at the park gate at 1:30 PM.
Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families.
So much love and gratitude for you,
Pastor Lindsay