In A Nutshell | December 20, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,

This morning as I’ve been putting the finishing touches on some of my Christmas gifts, I’ve been thinking of and praying for our community of faith – praying that each one of us would not only feel, but truly know the hope, peace, joy and love that comes from the Christ Child this Christmas. These are Christmas gifts that can’t be measured … or wrapped … or broken. This Sunday we will conclude our Advent sermon series “Christmas Gifts That Won’t Break,” based on James Moore’s book. My message, titled, “The Gift of Love,” is based on Luke 2: 15 – 20. I hope you will join us for this Fourth Sunday of Advent service.

Then be sure to return to the church on Sunday afternoon at 3:00 as the choir presents its “Together for Christmas” cantata. 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. There will be a cookie reception in Fellowship Hall after the program. We hope you will join us and bring a friend.

Our Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship will include a brief service of lessons and carols with special music, a short meditation and Holy Communion. Join us on Tuesday, December 24 at 7:00pm as we celebrate the birth of the Christ child.

Though I will be in the office periodically during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, I will not have set office hours. However, I am available for appointments and emergencies. Please call me on my cell at 330-234-7717.

We continue our annual Oak Chapel tradition of the “Colors of Christmas.” Members are encouraged to wear something reflecting each week’s color.

          Sunday, 12/22 – Blue (signifying eternity)

          Tuesday, 12/24 – (Christmas Eve) – White (signifying purity)

          Sunday, 12/29 – Gold (signifying riches)

On January 2, Clayton “Kate” and Joanne Jolliff will celebrate their 65^th Anniversary. In lieu of a party this year, they will gather with their immediate family for a celebration. If you would like to wish them well on this special occasion, their address is 8702 W. Old Lincoln Way, Wooster, OH 44691.

Also, Bob Olds (Cheryl Rastetter’s Dad) will celebrate his 90^th birthday on January 14. His address 1501 North 16^th Avenue, Lakeworth, FL 33460.

Epiphany, also known as “Three Kings Day” and “Twelfth Day,” is a Christian holiday commemorated on January 6. It falls on the twelfth day after Christmas, and for some denominations signals the conclusion of the twelve days of the Christmas season. The word epiphany means “manifestation” or “revelation” and is commonly linked in Western Christianity with the visit of the wise men or Magi to the Christ child. We will celebrate this occasion with Communion on Sunday, January 5.

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.

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.

Sunday, 12/22 – Sunday School at 9:30am

                   Fourth Sunday of Advent Worship at 10:30am

                   “Together for Christmas” Cantata at 3:00pm

                   Cookie Fellowship after Cantata

Tuesday, 12/24 – Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:00pm

Wednesday, 12/25 – Happy Birthday, Jesus! (Office closed)

Thursday, 12/26 – Office Closed

Saturday, 12/28 – United Methodist Women’s Officers at 10:30am

It is 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