Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
The Mountain Vision mission team is now safely on its way to Valley Head, WV. We are grateful for the “non-weather” we are currently experiencing in Wooster and pray that it will remain clear for their journey. I am grateful for the many youth and adults at Oak Chapel who share their faith through hands-on activities like this. Please pray for our team of nine traveling this weekend and for the children and families in Valley Head that they all might see the light of Christ reflected in each other.
Most have likely heard by now of the death of Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest peacemakers of our time. The timing of his death seems rather providential as we prepare for the second Sunday of Advent, the Sunday of Peace. My message, titled “The Gift of Peace,” is based on Isaiah 11: 1 – 10 and Luke 2: 8 – 14. I hope to see you in worship on Sunday as we continue to await the coming of the Prince of Peace.
I would also like to personally invite each of you to the parsonage open house on Sunday afternoon from 3:00 – 7:00pm. I am grateful for the love of our congregation and that you provide me with a beautiful home in our community. Please join me for a time of fellowship and treats.
United Methodist Men’s Trip to Football Hall of Fame
It’s not too late to join the United Methodist Men on their trip to the Football Hall of Fame tomorrow – Saturday, December 7. They are meeting in the parking lot at 9am and will stop to have a yummy breakfast at Das Dutch Kitchen in Dalton along the way. For more information, please call Kim Domer at 330-749-3461 or Bill Braucher at 330-201-1353.
Drive-Thru Prayers
In an effort to share the love of God and build relationships with the people of our community, Pastor Robin will host a “drive-thru” prayer station in the church parking lot tomorrow, Saturday, December 7, and for the next two Satrudays from 10am – Noon. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season, we will offer the peace of Christ and a listening ear. Patrons may pull into the parking lot, share the concerns on their hearts, Pastor Robin will pray with them and then send them on their way with what we pray is a renewed sense of hope and peace. If you know someone who could use a little encouragement this season, tell ‘em to drive by! We want our community to know we care about them.
Colors of Christmas
We continue our annual Oak Chapel tradition of the “Colors of Christmas.” Members are encouraged to wear something reflecting each week’s color.
Sunday, 12/8 – Purple (signifying royalty)
Sunday, 12/15 – Red (signifying sacrifice)
Sunday, 12/22 – Blue (signifying eternity)
Tuesday, 12/24 – (Christmas Eve) –White (signifying purity)
Sunday, 12/29 – Gold (signifying riches)
Doing Online Christmas Shopping?
Your online shopping could benefit Oak Chapel. The United Methodist Church, in partnership with some of the largest online retailers, has built a shopping tool that provides a cash benefit for local churches when you purchase through the UMCmarket — items you’d probably be buying anyway. The retailer does not markup the price — you still pay what you’d pay as you did before. How does it work? Simply create an account at UMCMarket.org and designate Oak Chapel as the recipient of the proceeds. Oak Chapel will receive 1 – 5% of your purchase from online stores and travel sites. Check it out. Please see Pastor Robin if you have any questions.
Administrative Council
The next meeting of the Administrative Council is Monday, December 9 at 7:00pm in Fellowship Hall. At this meeting we will discuss our plans and calendar for 2014. All 2013 and 2014 committee chairmen/women should plan to attend.
Christmas Caroling and Fellowship Luncheon
Next Sunday, December 15 we will have a fellowship luncheon after worship. After the luncheon, everyone is invited to go Christmas caroling to our homebound members and friends. If you know of someone who would appreciate carolers coming to his/her residence, please let Pastor Robin know by Monday, December 9 so we can plan our caroling route accordingly.
Christmas Cantata –Together for Christmas
The choir will present a cantata titled “Together for Christmas” on Sunday, December 22 at 3:00pm. This musical presentation will explore the importance of the gathering of the family of God during the Christmas season, both emotionally and spiritually. A blend of refreshing new music, beloved carols and traditional melodies, with simple narration, this presentation will draw all listeners into the story of the nativity and nurture the congregation toward hope, peace, joy and love. This is a great non-threatening opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to experience the hope of Jesus Christ during this Christmas season. Please plan now to join us!
Christmas Eve
Our Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship will include a brief service of lessons and carols, a short meditation and Holy Communion. Join us on Tuesday, December 24 at 7:00pm as we celebrate the birth of the Christ child.
District Leadership Training – Save the Date!
The annual Canal District Leadership Training Event will be Saturday, January 25 at Wooster UMC. Let’s take advantage of training offered right in our backyard. The sessions will address leadership of various committees needed to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Anyone may attend. All church leaders should attend.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 12/8 – Sunday School at 9:30am
Second Sunday of Advent Worship at 10:30am
Parsonage Open House from 3 –7:00pm
Monday, 12/9 – Bible Study at 10:15am
Administrative Council at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 12/11 – Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Saturday, 12/14 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
Drive-Thru Prayers – 10am till Noon
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. I look forward to seeing you in church on Sunday!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin