The Principal Feasts of the Year:
- Christmas Day – the celebration of the Christ-child
- Epiphany – the celebration of the light of Christ illumining the darkness of our world.
On Saturday, January 6th (not this Saturday) we will celebrate our Feast of the Epiphany beginning at 11:00 AM. This second Principal Feast of the year begins the Season of Epiphany in our Church year and reminds us that we, his church, are his body and light throughout the world.
See you Sunday!!!
Fr. Tom
Upcoming Schedule
Adult Christian Ed Class Sunday, 9 AM.
Choir Meet/Practice
Wednesdays, 4:30 PM, in the choir/organ loft
Feast of the Epiphany
January 6th, 11 AM
Discretionary Fund Offering
Thank you to those who donated at our Christmas Service for the Priest’s Discretionary Fund. We will be taking another such offering at our Epiphany Service on January 6th. These monies help Father Tom as he aids those financially in our church who are in need (and some outside of the church as well), meets with others in our church for ministry, meets with newcomers or those considering discipleship to Jesus, and other pastoral emergencies that may occur.
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
ANOTHER Outreach Opportunity for St. Matthew’s
The cold is now upon us and it is especially hard for those people living in the “tent city” on the west side of our communities. Please donate clean blankets (used or new) to help keep them warm. Rose Adams is delivering these much needed blankets beginning this Sunday, 12/31. Blankets will be gathered in the Parish Hall, on one of the half-round tables (just look for others) and thank you for sharing these vital gifts.
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.