Just a reminder to those who may still be praying about or planning to turn in your pledge cards for 2024. Thank you to those who have already turned in your cards, and to everyone who has worshipped our Lord through the financial support of His church in 2023.
For those who have not yet turned in an “updated picture” of yourself and/or your family, please do so ASAP (this includes this priest and his wife!). We would like to get an updated directory published in January.
Finally, we will be taking an offering both on Christmas Eve and at our Epiphany Service 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.
Let us take comfort and joy in this Advent Season in the Christ who has come and who is coming again.
Fr. Tom
Upcoming Schedule
Adult Christian Ed Class Sunday, 9 AM.
Choir Meet/Practice
Wednesdays, 4:30 PM, in the choir/organ loft
December 9th
8 AM – Men’s Breakfast
9:30 AM – Yard work day
December 24th Services
10 AM – Combined morning worship
7 PM – Christmas Service
HOMEMADE Cookie Exchange (and Sale)
This program was conceived by one of the congregation’s youngest new members! On Sunday, December 10th, we invite those of you who enjoy baking to make and bring homemade cookies to one-to-one exchange with other bakers. We suggest that you bring your cookies (a batch or so, it is up to each baker) at 9:30 a.m. and exchange with the others so you have a wonderful variety for the holidays. THEN, at coffee hour, following the 10 AM worship service, your extra cookies will be available to sell to anyone interested. All profits from this sale go to help St. Matthew’s Outreach. Questions? Call the office (309-662-4646) or See Jack & Patty Pitts for more information.
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.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9TH
Men’s Breakfast – if you are a regular member, or new to this group, please join in for great food and comradery. For meal planning, please let Jim Cooper (or the church office) know if you plan to attend.