Christmas Eve Services

Sunday, December 24

The 9:30 am and 11:00 am services will be regular 4^th Sunday of Advent services, with communion served at 11:00 am.

Christmas Eve services will be held at 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 and 11:00 pm. Each service will feature special music as follows…

5:00 pm Commitments and X-Alt Band

7:00 pm Rainbow Express & Joyful Noise Angels

9:00 pm Sanctuary Choir and Crossroads Ringers

11:00 pm Sanctuary Choir and Crossroads Ringers

Communion to be served December 31^st

Traditionally, the Sacrament of Holy Communion is served on the first Sunday of each month. Because the final Sunday of this year is also New Year’s Eve, it was felt that serving Communion on this Sunday would be a fitting way to conclude this year and begin the new year.

In the United Methodist Church, we believe that Communion is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ. One need not be a member of this church to receive the Sacrament. Please join us on December 31^st to end the year 2000 and begin 2001 by remembering Christ’s deep love for us.

We will not have Communion on January 7^th.

We will offer our ‘First Fruits’ on Sunday, December 3

We will celebrate the completion of our Capital Funds Campaign and the beginning of our three-year commitment with a special offering (First Fruits) on December 3^rd. This is the time for our initial gifts, given for the work of the Lord, to be made to the Capital Campaign. These initial gifts will be invested until such time as property is found and will then be used to reduce the amount financed in purchasing the property, thus reducing our interest costs substantially.

If you wish to make a commitment to the Campaign and have not yet done so, please follow the instructions in the letter you received or contact the church office (238-6135).

Come join our ‘angels’ in a celebration of the meaning of Christmas

On Sunday, December 10, the children of the church will present Angel Talk! A Christmas Celebration! This delightful celebration of Christmas will start at 7 pm in the sanctuary, and will conclude with a cookie reception in Tiber Hall. Please bring a dozen cookies and a thirst for the innocence of Christmas.

Music will be provided by the three children's choirs--Joyful Noise Angels, Rainbow Express and the Commitments--and children from the 3 year old and 4 year old Sunday School classes. The skit entitled Angel Talk! will be presented by members of our Sunday School classes. This unique and wonderful celebration incorporates all the children of the church, so don’t miss it! Baby-sitting will be available.

The practice dates for Angel Talk are as follows:

Thursday, December 7

Joyful Noise Angels 7 pm

Rainbow Express 7:30 pm

Commitments Regular time

Saturday, December 9

Choir rehearsal, all singing parts 10-11 am

Cast rehearsal, all speaking parts 11-12 am

Sunday, December 10

All singing and speaking participants 6:30 pm

Program 7:00 pm

God can change lives - today

God can make things new - today

God’s power defeats the enemy - today

We enter the season of Advent, a time when we acknowledge the power of God to break into human history. Breaking in with such unforseen strength, God, the Divine, comes in human form. God, the Divine, appears on earth. God, the Divine, shares the fulness of his love. God brings to us, in our Lord, the promise of peace, strength, and healing. God brings to us an abiding presence, help, and forgiving mercy. God promises blessings, goodness, and meaningfulness for our days on earth.

May we not be so caught up in the activities of Christmas that we fail to know the wonderful promises of God. Promises made very evident in his son, Jesus Christ. May we recognize that the work of God is taking place today in human lives as well as tomorrow. May we affirm the power of God for us today as well as in the future.

O Lord, may I hold onto your promise that you are with me always. May I celebrate Christmas with the joy of knowing that you are here with me this day and forever. Amen.

Rev. Ron Mowry

From Pastor Paula’s Desk

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.’ ” Luke 2:10-11

Recently, David and I were in a video store where I found many Christmas video selections. Everything from, “It's A wonderful Life” to “Charlie Brown Christmas.” But there was one particular video jacket which immediately caught my attention. It was titled “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” Now it wasn't the title which grabbed my attention, but the picture on the video sleeve. For there is a young child dressed in the distinguishing garb of a children's Christmas play, an oversized, long-sleeved, droopy looking bathrobe tied at the waist. A vision of angels and shepherds who will soon make their way upon stage to declare the birth announcement of Jesus.

You see, the shepherds who gathered outside of Bethlehem, had a view of history very different from ours. For on this ordinary night, the angels were privileged to declare a birth announcement to the shepherds unlike any ever declared before or since. As the stars twinkled in the night, the lives of the shepherds and our lives were permanently changed.

Can you imagine how the shepherds felt? I can just see them standing there with their knees shaking, trying to remain calm on the outside, but terrified on the inside. Here they were minding their own business, doing what only shepherds do, comparing stories and dreaming of what life held for them. Should they run, where would they go, were they dreaming? All these questions and more rapidly raced through their thoughts. Even if they ran, where would they go? So they did what only terrified people could do; the shepherds remained silent. They listened.

Suddenly, their lives changed. They heard with their ears the birth announcement which they felt in their hearts. Now the question I pose to you is this, have you heard and felt the birth announcement the shepherds ran to town declaring? Scripture clearly says, the shepherds no longer remained silent. I can see them now, tripping over sheep and their robes as they raced into town on this special night.

Now what about us, are we tripping over each other racing through the streets to declare the birth of Jesus Christ? Are we stumbling over each other to make sure the news is spread to every town and nation?

As you prepare during this time of Advent for the celebration of Christ’s birth, may you join the shepherds proclaiming the birth of Jesus Christ the King!

Have a blessed Christmas!

Pastor Paula and David

Christian Education Page

Sunday

Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

9:30 AM

Infant Room through Fifth Grade Classes

Middle School and High School Classes

11:00 AM

Infant and Toddler Rooms

Preschool Class

Elementary Class (Kindergarten through 2^nd Grade)

INTRODUCING AN UPPER ELEMENTARY CLASS AT 11:00 AM FOR 3^RD GRADE THROUGH 5^TH GRADE BEGINNING DECEMBER 3. CHECK IT OUT !!!

SPECIAL NOTICE!!!

We are grateful for all who are teaching in our Sunday School classes at 9:30 and 11:00. However, we are seeking more to join the ranks. We have openings in the 2^nd grade, 4^th grade, and 5^th grade classes at 9:30, and the 11:00 classes are always grateful for more volunteers. With your help we can keep our teaching of God’s Word to the children of our church family uninterrupted. Specific training is available. Please contact Carol Williams (846-0513) or Alys Herrick (238-1221). Thank you for your prayerful consideration.

Dec. 9

Rehearsal for Angel Talk

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM -- singing parts only (Joyful Noise Angels, Rainbow Express, Commitments, Sunday School Preschoolers ( 3 year olds and 4 year olds)

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM - speaking parts only

Dec. 10

“ANGEL TALK-A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION”

7:00 PM SANCTUARY

Bring a dozen cookies to share.

Dec. 3, 10, 17

10:45 AM-12:00 PM CONFIRMATION CLASS

Dec. 24 & 31

NO CONFIRMATION CLASS

Dec. 31

The Birthday Bank will circulate at 9:30 AM from the three year olds through the fifth grade. The 11:00 AM class will also participate.

Tuesday

December 5, 12, 19

10:00 AM-11:30 AM Crosstalks

7:00 PM-9:30 PM Disciple I & Disciple III

December 5, 19

7:15 PM Women’s Bible Study (Bonnie Lane parsonage)

December 5

7:00 PM Committee on Education, Room 7

Wednesday

December 6, 13, 20

9:30 AM-12:00 PM Disciple I & Disciple II

From Alys’ Desk

The children’s Christmas program Angel Talk will help us celebrate the season in word and song. Our “angels” find themselves so busy in flying back and forth over the earth taking care of their charges that they can’t practice for the big announcement. The people on earth really need help from someone!

Angels played an important role in the drama of Jesus’ birth. Gabriel was sent to Zacharias to tell him that he and Elizabeth would have a son, to be named John, that would be the messenger for the Messiah. Gabriel also announced to Mary that she would bear the Son of God, to be named Jesus. Another angel spoke to Joseph in a dream telling him that Mary conceived her son by the Holy Spirit and that the baby would fulfill the prophecy: “Listen! The virgin shall conceive a child! She shall give birth to a Son, and he shall be called ‘Emmanuel’ (meaning “God is with us”).” Matthew 1:23 and Isaiah 7:14. The Living Bible

“The conception and birth of Jesus Christ are supernatural events beyond human logic or reasoning. Because of this, God sent angels to help certain people understand the significance of what was happening. Angels are spiritual beings created by God who help carry out his work on earth. They bring God’s messages to people, protect God’s people, offer encouragement, give guidance, bring punishment, patrol the earth, and fight the forces of evil.” The Living Bible

As you rejoice in the birth of our Savior and God’s great plan of salvation may your soul sing with the angels “Glory to God in the highest heaven and peace on earth for all those pleasing him.” Luke 2:14 The Living Bible

Blessed Christmas Greetings to all the “angels” in the Education Work Area!!!

Attention: After Christmas shoppers

If you would like to donate to this year’s Vacation Bible School, we would love to hear from you. This year’s theme is Polar Expedition, where kids will discover Jesus' love is cool!

We are looking for anything that has to do with winter. Some examples are: polar bears, penguins, white seals, icicles, icicle lights or any white miniature lights. Anything else that you can think of, if you donate it, we will use it.

If you have any questions call Brenda Soja 572-3401, Sharon Casey 740-0888 or Alys Herrick 238-1221.

F.Y.I. This year’s VBS will be held the week of June 18 - 22, 2001.

Off to Alaska!

Ron and Sue Mowry will be hosting a trip to Alaska departing June 25, 2001. We will cruise north on the Inland Passage and spend time in the National Park areas observing wild life and other gifts of nature. If you would like further information, please contact the Mowrys. Reservations made by December 31^st will result in remarkable savings in airfare. Several people from our church have already reserved their spot for this trip.

College Handbook

Placed in Rustad Library

The General Board of Higher Education & Ministry has sent us a copy of the 3^rd edition of the Handbook of United Methodist-Related Schools, Colleges, Universities and Theological Schools.

This handbook provides information about all 123 United Methodist-related institutions and will be a valuable resource for church members to learn about the educational opportunities available through them. The handbook also contains two pages about each school, a chart indicating the areas of study at each school, and information about United Methodist loans and scholarships.

The handbook has been placed in the Rustad Library (in Gifford Parlor). You are encouraged to use this valuable publication and the information it provides.

Friday Fellowship

Hear Ye! HearYe! Friday Fellowship calling all seniors! Come join us for lunch at the Senior Center on December 8 at noon. Please note the change of meeting date.

Our speaker will be Arlene Cushing, who will be talking about antique toys. Guaranteed to bring back some memories of what we found under the Christmas trees years passed. . .a bit of nostalgia thrown in. Call Betty Smith at 238-7379 for reservations.

Thought for the day

An act of love, no matter how great or small, is always appreciated.

December Birthdays

Dec. 14 Dolores Huhn, 85 years

Dec. 15 Margaret Ginn, 89 years

Katy Albers

Dec. 19 Tom Verbsky

Dec. 25 Newt Chalfant

Dec. 28 Caroline Buschman, 92 years

Dec. 31 Ray Richards, 86 years

Anniversaries

Dec. 8 Betty & Bob Smith, 55 years

Dec. 9 Chuck & Lita Staley, 44 years

Sometimers

We have tickets reserved at Greenbriar Theatre for their performance of Ebeneezer on December 15. Curtain time is 8 pm and ticket cost is $12.00. Your reservation and money must be given to Betty Smith no later than December 3. Join us for an evening of fellowship and Scrooge!

M-in-M’s

M-in-M’s will gather on Saturday, December 16 for an evening of Christmas Caroling followed by refreshments and fellowship at the home of the Ringle’s (18115 Heritage Trail). We will board the Strongsville bus at 6:30 pm in the church parking lot and travel to several locations in the city to bring a little Christmas 2cheer to those confined to their homes or in nursing homes over the holiday season.

After caroling, we will enjoy some time together and then return to the church around 10:30 pm. All couples of the church are invited to this special outing. Call George & Barb Ringle (238-9344) or Paul & Bev. Wells (572-1415) by December 13 to reserve your spot on the bus.

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry is one way our church is Multiplying God's Love in Strongsville. On Sunday, December 17, 2000, our congregation will commission ten Stephen Ministers. These dedicated people will have completed 50 hours of training, beginning in September, and are ready to begin their caring ministry among us here at Strongsville United Methodist Church.

Those to be commissioned are Ron Bakeman, Ruth Brickley, Karen Cannon, Pat Crandall, Lisa Johnson, Mike Johnson, David Koch, Diane Mieskowski, Myrna Nored, and Phil Weisbrod.

We thank God for all our Stephen Ministers and Stephen Leaders and pray that God will bless their ministries. If you or someone you know is in need of a caring friend to listen and walk with you during a difficult time, please call Bev. Wells (572-1415), Hildi Fitzpatrick (572-5004), Mark or Karen Milia (572-0602), Jim Boyer (572-4976), Rev. Ron or Pastor Paula.

$$ Important Information $$

About Your Church Account

The Shelby System (the church’s computer software) sorts only by account number, not by year. Therefore, each year of the capital campaign will have a different account number in order to provide both information for current year statements and overall capital campaign contribution status.

The Capital Campaign Fund commitments will be spread over 36 months unless otherwise specifically stated on your commitment cards.

1/36 will be charged to 301-00 for 2000

12/36 will be charged to 301-01 for 2001

12/36 will be charged to 301-02 for 2002

11/36 will be charged to 301-03 for 2003

Each year’s statements will include only that year’s commitment and contributions (the current year’s Capital Campaign account number). A separate statement will be included and will show the entire 36 months status (All years Capital Campaign account numbers).

United Methodist Women

The Strongsville United Methodist Women (SUMW) would like to thank you, the congregation, for your support of our projects over this past year. The SUMW has been an organization in this church for over 50 years. We have worked together to earn monies for mission, to grow spiritually through a reading program and study group, and to hold fellowship meetings for both the nurturing of our members and to learn from outside speakers.

We openly encourage all the women of the church to join us throughout the year in our many activities. Monthly we have listed the various activities going on and have, hopefully, invited you to become a participant. In January, we will again, invite you to our annual installation and membership drive program. Watch for the news!

Because of your financial support this past year, the SUMW has been able to donate more than $7,000 to mission work. Following is a list of the organizations to which we have contributed:

General Conference's Women's Division Berea Children's Home Elyria Retirement Home

Henderson Settlement Flat Rock Children's Home West Side Community House

Local Scholarship Strongsville Food Bank Angel Tree

Red Bird Mission

Karen Muskoff, President

All women are invited to

Strongsville’s Ecumenical

Ladies Christmas Tea

Wednesday, December 6

1:00 to 3:00 pm

St. Joseph Church

RSVP to 238-5555 by Dec. 2nd

Elizabeth Circle

Elizabeth Circle will have its annual Christmas Party on December 11 at 6:30 pm at the home of Nancy Dawson. Bring an ornament to exchange and cookies for a cookie exchange. To make a reservation, call Debbie Miller at 572-4967.

Lydia Circle

Lydia Circle will meet December 7 in Tiber Hall at 12:30 pm for a Christmas Potluck. Please bring something for the luncheon and your table service.

Be thinking about your family’s Christmas traditions. Let’s hear about them from each other. As we think of our families, let’s think of others. Please bring a food item for the Strongsville Food Bank.

All ladies of the church are welcome. If you have any questions, call Betty Berry, 238-6495 or Grace Kellner, 234-0938.

Mission Opportunity --- Do you feel called to serve?

Interested in serving on a volunteer mission team? The Missions Committee would like to hear from you.

The United Methodist Volunteers in Mission offers literally hundreds of opportunities for volunteers to participate in short-term mission projects, some as little as a few days to several months. A great number of teams are needed both in the U.S. and in other countries. Projects range from

coordinating Vacation Bible School in an inner city neighborhood to building a church or school in a third world country.

If you are interested in participating on a short-term mission team with other volunteers from Strongsville United Methodist Church, please contact Mark Hotz, mission team coordinator, at 330-225-2632.

Joys & Concerns of the Congregation

Marriages

Congratulations to our former pastor, Rev. & Mrs. Richard Rustad and their family upon the marriage of their daughter, Carrie Rustad, to Ronald Taylor on November 18. The wedding took place at Normandy United Methodist Church in Centerville, Ohio.

Best wishes also to Angie Yascone & Kyle Hunt, who were married on November 4. The ceremony was performed by Pastor Paula.

Births

Congratulations to those members of our church family who have recently welcomed a new addition into their families:

Brian Michael Wells was born October 22 to Rob & Cathy Wells. Proud grandparents are Paul & Bev. Wells.

Gabrielle Rae Urmetz was born October 22 to Louis & Amy Urmetz. Proud grandparents are Tom & Ronnie Hajostek.

Stephanie Ann Flamik was born November 1 to Gary & Bethanne Flamik. Proud grandparents are Dave & Tammy Domann, and proud great-grandmother is Ann Croner.

Baptisms

We rejoice with the families of those children who have joined the family of faith through the sacrament of baptism. The following were baptized on Sunday, November 12:

Connor Robert Marohn, son of Stephen & Teresa Marohn;

Dalton James Kotlin, son of John & Laura Kotlin;

Margaret Elizabeth Ballas, daughter of Michael & Julianne Ballas;

and Madison Alexis Smith, daughter of James Smith & Charissa Musselman.

Deaths

Ruth Ziman entered the church triumphant on October 28. The prayers and sympathy of the church are extended to Ruth’s busband Paul and their family members.

Dr. John Lane Williams, who was pastor of this church from 1935 to 1938, passed away on November 2. The prayers and sympathy of the congregation are extended to his family, and also to the following families who have also recently experienced a loss:

to Jan & Tom Kuklo and family upon the death of Jan’s mother, Alice Gail Walker;

to Val Oakley and Candy Hamlin and their families upon the death of their mother, Virginia Price;

to Wayne & Jane Albert and family upon the death of Wayne’s father, Harvey Albert;

to Isabelle Bruggers and family upon the death of her brother-in-law, Clyde Bruggers;

to Bill Cobb III and family upon the death of his father, G. William Cobb, Jr.;

and to Steve Cook & Kathy Jillson upon the death of Steve’s mother, Josephine Cook.

From our church’s mailbox

Dear Friends of Strongsville UMC,

Thank you so much for your prayers during Jason’s recent surgery. It meant so much to us.

God’s blessings to you.

John, Renée & Jason McDermott

**************

Dear Christian Family,

Please accept my sincere thanks and appreciation for all the many calls, cards and prayers during my recent surgery.

God’s love and healing comes in so many ways and through the visits, prayers and caring of Rev. Ron, Pastor Paula and each of you, we have felt surrounded by your love and God’s many blessings in our lives.

My Christian Love to all,

Evelyn Coleman

***************

Dear Friends at SUMC,

I want to thank you for your cards, prayers, thoughtfulness, and thank those of you who took the time to visit.

I especially enjoyed the altar flowers, knowing they had been with all of you in church service.

God Bless all of you,

Glenora Elgin

***************

I would like to extend a great big “Thank You” to all the wonderful people who volunteered this past year in the church office: Marie Stands, Gordon Evans, Marge Turek, Bobbie Mezzulo, Rosey Pamer, Arvine Paschall, Pat Boyette, Helen Morgan, Ruth Guzzo, John & Eleanor Bohlander, Betty Berry, Mildred Delau, Eileen Bambam, Dolores Huhn, Ginny McKee, Nancy Williamson, Jan Kuklo, Karen Muskoff, and Margie Voll. A special “thank you” to Wendy Steller for her work on the Wesley News. (P.S. If I missed anyone, I am truly sorry).

God has blessed this church with a multitude of giving and talented servants of God; for this I am truly grateful.

May God continue to bless you all as you have all blessed me and this church.

In Christian Love, Barb Krivos

Christmas Is A Time For Giving

“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” (Matthew 25:35-36)

Westside Community House helps families in need

It’s that time of year again when the staff of WSCH will hold the annual Christmas party. Each family receives a large box wrapped for Christmas, with at least one present for each member. This year there will be 63 families receiving these boxes. These may be the only Christmas presents they will receive! There is a great need.

The deadline for the gifts will be Sunday, December 10. Please do not wrap the presents. Boxes will be fine. I will deliver the unwrapped presents to WSCH on Dec. 11 to be packed with presents from other churches.

The decorated box for the Christmas gifts will be in the back hall from November 19 to December 10. Wish lists of ideas for the presents will be available near the Christmas box and in the church bulletin.

In addition to family presents, the Seniors of WSCH need new 2001 calendars and unused Christmas cards, which are also given to the 150 shut-ins when their meals are delivered. (A small box near “The Box” will be used for the calendars and cards.)

This year, there are 16 “angel” families who have had fires or other family tragedies and are in dire need. Money can be given to me and items like sheets, blankets, towels, clothing, toiletries or whatever is needed will be bought by the staff of WSCH for each family.

In the past you have always been generous. If anyone would like to help sort and pack presents during the week of December 11, just let me know. Many volunteers are needed at this time.

Eleanor Bohlander

WSCH Advocate

It’s time to put gifts under our “giving tree”

One of our church’s most cherished holiday traditions is to participate in the Strongsville Food Bank’s “Christmas for Kids” program. The tradition began at our church in 1986 and continues to flourish.

On Sunday, December 10 we will place gift request tags from needy youngsters on our tree in the atrium. Pick out a tag, and during the week purchase your gift, wrap it, and securely attach the tag to the outside. Return your wrapped gift to the tree on Sunday, December 17. Please do not put money in the gift boxes. Monetary contributions can be put in the collection plate marked “Strongsville Food Bank.” Indicate information regarding your child if you want the money to go to that family, and the Food Bank will give them gift certificates to the grocery store. (All the families will receive food staples and gift certificates in addition to the presents).

Attached to the tag on the tree will be an ornament. You are to remove the ornament and place it on your tree as a reminder of the gift of love that you have given.

Angel Tree gift tags available Dec. 10

Don’t forget that Angel Tree gift tags will also be on the tree in the atrium on December 10. Gifts are to be returned to the church on December 17. Angel Tree is a prison ministry service project of the Logos Upper class. Toys, clothing, and Christmas greetings are delivered to children of incarcerated parents. The generosity of our congregation makes this service project possible.

United Methodist Men’s Poinsettia Sale

Again this year, you can give a poinsettia plant in memory or in honor of a loved one. The United Methodist Men are taking orders for plants which can be picked up for your personal use or donated for use in decorating the church.

The cost is $7.50 per plant, and payment must be included with your order.

The deadline for placing your order is Sunday, December 17^th.

Please complete the order form and place it (with your check made out to United Methodist Men) in the offering plate or return it to the church office.

------------------------------------------------------------------Clip & Return----------------------------------------------------------------

Name_______________________________________Address_________________________________________

Number of plants @ $7.50 each__________ Amount enclosed $_________

In Memory of________________________________________________________________________________

In Honor of__________________________________________________________________________________

(please print clearly)

Quantity

_____ I will not be picking up my plant(s)

_____ I will be picking up my plant(s) on Saturday, December 23^rd between 10 am and noon.

_____ Total number of plants ordered.

Please note: any plants not picked up will be taken to area hospitals and nursing homes.

Chairs given in honor of Santomens & Rustads

The church recently placed chairs in the renovated Hoover Auditorium at Lakeside, Ohio, in honor of the ministries of Joe & Betsey Santomen and Richard & Sandy Rustad. We have received the following thank you notes:

Dear Congregation,

We returned home from North Carolina and found your letter concerning a seat given in our name at Hoover Auditorium, Lakeside.

Betsey and I are really appreciative of the congregation’s thoughtfulness. Please express to the congregation our appreciation for their kind remembrance of us. We will have to look for the seat when we are at annual conference.

Please know that you and the congregation are in our prayers daily as your ministry to the people continues to grow and change in these early years of the 21^st century.

Joe & Betsey

***************

Dear Friends,

We just received the gracious letter indicating that you purchased a new seat at the Hoover Auditorium at Lakeside in honor of my ministry with you and that both our names will be on a plaque on that seat. We are very grateful for your thoughtfulness in honoring us in this way.

Every year, my friend, Rev. Forrest Waller, would greet me by saying with somber inflection, “It is so good to be at the seat of the Annual Conference.” Now, just think, I will always have a seat at the seat of the Annual Conference!

We remember with great fondness our seventeen years with you and the closeness we felt and feel with you as individuals and as a congregation. You have always been a caring congregation and have demonstrated that once again by responding to the need of the Lakeside Association and, in the process, bringing us this honor.

Thank you so much. May God bless you richly.

Yours in Christ,

Richard L. Rustad

Notes from the Nurses

Already feeling the stress of the holiday season? There’s still time to sign up for a Yoga session with our congregation’s own Kim Wasielewski on Saturday, December 2 from 9:30 to 11 am. Yoga can be helpful in stress reduction, relaxation, posture, flexibility and healing. Wear comfortable clothing a bring a blanket, a pillow and an open mind. Call the church office at 238-6135 to reserve your floor space.

Be sure your toys are safe

Christmas is such an exciting time, especially with little ones around. Make sure this remains a happy time by carefully considering the safety of toys that are under your tree. Read all warnings and instructions and be sure that anything labeled “for children ages 3 and older” doesn’t find its way into those under 3 hands. Consider a child’s ability rather than age when purchasing toys; age warnings on toys are not guarantees of safety. Check for the following hazards: Sharp points, jagged edges, rough surfaces; small detachable parts that could be swallowed or stuck in the throat, nose, or ears; long cords or strings on tots’ toys (if the cord is over 12 inches, cut it shorter); squeakers or other noise makers that are not securely attached to the toy and that could be removed or swallowed; nuts, bolts and clamps that are loose; electric toys with frayed or loose wires. Deflated or broken balloons are dangerous! If these are swallowed, they cause children to suffocate. If your child is riding on a toy, keep him or her away from stairs, porches, cars and pools.

Always inspect toys for safe, sturdy construction. Help older children keep their toys where your baby or toddler cannot reach them. Store all toys properly after play to avoid trips and falls. A few minutes of careful consideration can avoid serious injuries.

Our monthly Blood Pressure screenings will take place on Sunday, December 17, after each service. Hope to see you there!

May God Bless you this holiday season!

Betsy Mowry & Gail Spence

Souled Out

Something to Think About by Greg

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” -The Parable of the Lost Son

After many sleepless nights worrying and wondering if I would ever see them again, they were finally safe in my hands. It was a moment of such beauty and relief, I was at a loss for words. As I stood before the person who returned my keys (actually duplicates to my keys...MY keys are somewhere in St. Louis or Ashtabula), I didn’t know what to say or how to act. Part of me wanted to shout to the world or do some kind of a happy dance; and part of me wanted to weep tears of joy. Somewhere, not long ago, a locksmith (I prefer the term artist) gently shaped and molded this wonderful set of keys. I can just imagine him (or her) in deep thought, molding and shaping each key individually, trying to maintain the delicate balance between form and function. These keys in my hands are not just a set of keys, they represent everything real and beautiful in this world. It’s no wonder I couldn’t sleep knowing that they weren’t hanging safely in my kitchen at night. What matters most is that once they were lost, but now they are found.

Okay, so maybe I’m exaggerating or being silly, but maybe this is how God feels about us. It’s so easy for us to stray and get off track, maybe this is how God feels when we come running back to him. Maybe God throws a giant party in heaven when, after years of searching, years of being lost, we finally fall to our knees and say,”Daddy, I’m so sorry I was away for so long. Please take me back. Please let me climb up into your lap. Please hold me for a while.” Imagine a Father crying as he holds in his arms a precious child that once was lost, but now is found.

Text Box: Don’t Forget...
Youth Group is for all youth (grades 7-12). Invite your friends.
Check the youth board in the atrium to keep up with what’s happening.
Watch for RSVP dates. Sometimes we really have to know how many to plan for.

God Loves You!!

Youth Ministry Mission Statement

Our mission is to equip youth with a solid foundation in Jesus Christ, with excitement for spiritual growth, that they may be alive in their faith and make a difference for Christ in the World.

December Youth Calendar

Sunday, December 3^rd

Regular Meeting

6:00 - 8:00pm

BYOBag Supper

Saturday, December 9^th

Lyndhurst 1^st Assembly of God Church

for Dave Koch’s play

Leave the church at 5:45pm

Performance is free, but love offering will be received

(eat dinner before you come)

Sunday, December 10^th

Regular Meeting

6:00 - 8:00pm

BYOBag Supper

Sunday, December 17^th

Christmas Caroling - 6:00 - 8:30pm

Meet at Pastor Paula’s (18474 Bonnie Lane)

Hot Chocolate and Snacks after caroling!!

Sunday, December 24^th

Merry Christmas

No Meeting

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services at

5:00, 7:00, 9:00 & 11:00

Sunday, December 31^st

New Year’s Eve Bash

10:00pm - 12:30am

Watch for details in the bulletin

Reminder! Reminder! Reminder!

Reservations and money for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Ski Retreat Weekend, January 13-15th must be in to Greg by December 3rd.