I look forward to worshipping with you all this Sunday Morning for our final Sunday of Advent. Those who attend in the morning will notice a brighter and exuberant transition as we move to our Feast of the Nativity of Christ celebration later that Night. (see below for details and times!)
The Mass of Christ’s birth is our first principal feast of the year as we journey again with Christ in his life aided by the Christian Year in 2024.
May we revel in the hope of the Christ-child,
Fr. Tom
Upcoming Schedule
Adult Christian Ed Class Sunday, 9 AM.
Choir Meet/Practice
Wednesdays, 4:30 PM, in the choir/organ loft
December 24th Services
10 AM – Combined morning worship
7 PM – Christmas Service
Weather and Closure Notifications
As we were reminded recently when snow blanketed our area on the weekend after Thanksgiving, winter weather is upon us. While it is rare, there are times when general safety constrains us to cancel a service on Sunday or during the week. This is another good reason to make sure that you are on our announcement and communication e-mail/mobile phone text lists. Please call Pat at the office (309-662-4646) or send her an e-mail (office@stmattsblm.org) to ensure you are kept in the loop.
Also, on Sundays especially, we need people willing to arrive before each service to help clear our walkways and entrance areas for safe passage. Please talk to Dedee Champion, Rex Schaeffer, or Roy Laws if you are willing to help. If you aren’t sure yet who these people are, please talk to Fr. Tom and he will introduce you.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24TH
The last Sunday of Advent this year falls on December 24th. We look forward to worshipping once again as a unified church in one combined service that morning, beginning at 10:00 AM. That evening, we will begin our Christmas Service (The Feast of the Nativity) at 7:00 PM. For those interested, we will also have a “carol-sing” before the service at a time to be determined.
Discretionary Fund Offering
Please note that we will be taking an offering both on Christmas Eve and at our Epiphany Service on January 6th for the Priest’s Discretionary Fund. These monies help Father Tom as he aids those financially in our church who are in need (and some outside of the church in need), meets with others in our church for ministry, meets with newcomers or those considering discipleship to Jesus, and other pastoral emergencies that may occur.
Stewardship
Thanks to many who have turned in your 2024 pledge cards. It is never too late to add yours, and there are extra cards near the entrances where you pick up worship missals.
Outreach for Winter
YES, there is a place for gently-used winter wear! Coats, snow pants, gloves, mittens, scarves and hats can be placed in the Big White Box in the hallway for donation to the Giving Fence. Remember, NEW items for the Mitten Trees, GENTLY USED for the Big White Box. Thank you! The Outreach Committee