This week at Hope 12/12/2022

Yesterday in worship we observed the Third Sunday in Advent. As this is traditionally Joy Sunday, along with the lighting of the pink candle on the Advent wreath, we focused on Reasons for Joy. According to Isaiah’s prophecy, completely fulfilled by Jesus, these reasons are many. God’s salvation has come into the world in the person of Christ Jesus. He transforms everything for us! And we have joyful days ahead, as the saving work of Jesus continues to have its effect AND as we prepare for His return to usher in everlasting joy. Rejoice, give thanks, and sing!

Sunday adult Discipleship class has one more session of discussing “The Biblical Mission of the Church.” This coming Sunday we will be looking particularly at the mission of Hope in this time and place.

Midweek Advent services continue this Wednesday at both 11:30 am and 6:30 pm. With the theme of “Living in a Time of Adaptive Challenges,” this week’s topic is Joy in the midst of uncertainty. The ladies of Dorcas and LWML are combining for a fantastic feast at Noon, or you can come early at 5:30 for the evening fellowship meal.

DCE Carl Repp is loading up the hay wagon for epic Christmas Caroling this Saturday, December 17. We will meet at the church at 5:30 pm for a bowl of warm chili, hop on the trailer to sing through the neighborhood, then finish up at 7 pm back at the church with cookies and hot cocoa.

Consider this your special invitation to the SAIL Christmas Party this Thursday from 10 am to Noon. Even if you are not a regular attender, you are welcome to come enjoy tasty food, classic songs, fun gifts, and festive merriment.

The church has contracted with Rev. Dennis Tegtmeier to serve as vacancy pastor while Hope searches for a new full-time pastor. Pastor Tegtmeier will begin service on January 1. Talk to congregation president Bill Martino if you have any questions.

Scripture readings next Sunday—Isaiah 7:10-17; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25. 

Three ways to Give in support of Hope’s ministry and mission:

•          in-person at the offering plate in worship;

•          on the church website by the Give with Us button;

•          through the Vanco mobile app GivePlus. Thank you!

Birthdays—12/18 Daniel O’Dell

Anniversaries—12/15 Ed & Alice Baumann

“They will burst into bloom, and rejoice with joy and singing…They will see the Lord’s glory, the splendor of our God.” Isaiah 35