T H E  P A R I S H  N E W S

St. Mary’s United Church of Christ

Silver Run, Maryland

Volume XXXI January 2010 No 1 modified for the Web.

(Previous issues available:   2008, 2009)

 

 

Message From the Pastor

The season of light is upon us.  The Christmas affirmation that Jesus is the light of the world is the affirmation that is ours to live and to experience in the days and weeks ahead.  With the appearance of the star that brought the Wise Men to Bethlehem from far away, God set the tone for evangelism in all ages and times.  Ours is the task to let the light of Christ shine: shine in our hearts, shine in our lives, shine in our world.  People are brought to Jesus because they see the light and follow the star.  But they come to look for Jesus here at St. Mary’s church because they see the light of Christ in those of us who are here.  People see the light of Christ in our worship, in our study together, in our caring for each other, in our reaching out to others in ways that let them know of God’s love and God’s compassion.  Especially in these times of hardship and despair, ours is more than the call to bask in the glow of divine light.  This Epiphany season is the time when God is calling us to be the beacon of the light of Christ that is our mandate and our reason for being.  The light of Christ shines in the darkness because it first shines in us.  And it is through us that the light of Christ can and will continue to shine for the people of our community and people around the world.

As the people of St. Mary’s United Church of Christ, we stand at the beginning of this new year ready to embrace this as a time of challenge and opportunity, of change and possibility, of blessing and responsibility.  As the “Still-Speaking God” continues to illuminate us, the light that shines in us is the source of our energy and commitment and passion for the gospel.  As we enter into this new year, may each of us not only be guided by the light but also be inspired and motivated by the light.  May the light of Christ be the source of our devotion and loyalty, the source of our vision and service as we worship and learn and serve in the name of our Lord who is the light of our lives and the light of our world.

            Grace and peace, Dick

ANNUAL MEETING

The Annual Meeting of St. Mary’s United Church of Christ is scheduled for Sunday, January 31st, at 12 Noon following our morning worship service and a Table Fellowship provided by the Fellowship Committee.  All members of the church are urged to be present and participate at this annual event that is so important in the life of our congregation.  Copies of the Annual Report will be available on the prior Sunday.

 

NEW CONSISTORY TO BE INSTALLED

The new members of Consistory for the year 2010 will be ordained and installed during our morning worship on Sunday, January 3rd, at 10:30 AM.  Our service will also include the Sacrament of Holy Communion served in the pews as we begin the church season of Epiphany.  Worship of God is the first duty and responsibility of all of us as the members of Christ’s body.  As we start our new year together, let us all resolve to be present for worship at every opportunity.

 

UNDECORATING PARTY

Volunteers are needed on Saturday, January 2nd, to help take down and store the decorations that have adorned our church for the holiday season.  We will be gathering at 9:00 AM and expect to be finished before noon.  All help is greatly appreciated.

FLOWER CALENDAR  - 2010

The Flower Calendar for the year 2010 is posted in the bell tower entryway. If you wish to place altar flowers on the altar in honor or in memory of a loved one, please sign you name on the Sunday desired and let the church office know what you wish in the bulletin for that Sunday. You are also responsible for ordering your flowers. Any questions call the church office 410-346-7977.

STEPHEN MINISTRY CORNER

 

Feeling Down?

Our Stephen Ministry can help!  Stephen Ministers are not just there for big crises.  They are also available for the little crises, because many times the little things can really add up --- so don’t wait until you have a really big crisis; consider requesting a Stephen Minister if the little things have you feeling down.  To request a Stephen Minister, please contact Pastor Scott, Steve, or Dorothy Ellen.

 

 

SUNDAY SCHOOL AND YOUTH NEWS

All children age 3 through Middle School are invited to join us Sunday Mornings at 9:30am for Sunday School. Preschool classes meet in the Preschool room upstairs.  Grades 1-5 meet downstairs and the Youth gathers in the new Youth room.  We encourage all children and youth to come and learn about God's love and the teachings of Jesus Christ. If you have any questions please contact Linda. 

 

KID’S NIGHT OUT

Kid’s Night Out will resume on Sunday, January 31st.  Join us from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for an evening of fun & games.  All kids in Grades K through high school are welcome.  Bring a friend!  A light snack will be provided.  Contact Brian or Lisa  for more information.

 

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