MANY THANKS to the crew who served in pulling together last week’s Art & Vendor Fair.  Watch for a full report in Echo, but know we celebrated some holiday cheer, brought some nourishment and light to our neighbors and brought in $800-900.  THANKS to Girl Scouts and leaders, especially Tomi, Cathy, Jenn and Kim, Boy Scouts and leaders, especially Marty Devine, Chris Van Allman, and Tim. Eden members and friends Sue Betzolt,  Jack Campus, Sandy Bechtolsheim, Eva Skowronski, Catherine Inserra, Carla Riggs and Jacki Belile. 

Additional thanks this week! Daryl and Ed, for investments in researching cost savings for the church, David A and Dave C for many hours working on sound tech, Ed for getting the carillon ringing TODAY, Larry and Sarah for Afterschool staffing, and Sarah for the Alzheimers’ Association educational event this week. See her if you need the link to the recording.

This week we light the Advent Candle of Joy.  That’s a miracle in and of itsself, lighting the candle each year. Lighting it THIS year.  We light it not because we feel we have joy, or sufficient joy. We light it because we need joy.  We light it to remember that the joy that sustains us inwardly is a gift that is also from beyond us and despite whatever reality IS our current reality.  We light it to recognize the light a loving God wants to shed upon our lives.  We light it to say YES with gratitude. 

Join us for good company in Word, song and fellowship tomorrow. I’m especially grateful to welcome guest vocalist Emily McConnell, a mutual friend of Jenn Peterson’s.  You’ll be delighted!

In Christ’s Peace,
Jacki