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Weekly E-News December 12, 2013

PASTOR'S CORNER

Every year at Christmas, Rachael Tenpenny would put on her Santa earrings and matching brooch and head down to the Golden Living Center. Her mission was to spread the joy of Christmas. She would play the piano, sing songs with Santa and the residents, and then distribute gifts to all of the residents. Her spirit lives on in the generosity shown on Sunday. I am grateful to Carol for taking the reins of this mission. I am thankful to the members who will share in this mission and my hope is that you will keep the chrismon on your refrigerator as a reminder to pray for the person throughout the year. Remember that you can share in the joy of this mission by joining in the singing and distribution of gifts on Christmas Eve Day, December 24 at 2:30 pm.

This Saturday we will be packing Holiday Boxes to provide food for families who might otherwise go hungry this Christmas. In addition to the families we have traditionally served, we are partnering with International Rescue Committee to serve newly arrived refugee families who are in need. An IRC volunteer who has worked with the families will bring clothing and gifts, we will bring the food, and together we will share the joy of Christmas with the families we are serving. We will be distributing Holiday Boxes on the 14th, 21st, and 23rd, so if you can't make it on Saturday please let Dil know when you can help distribute these gifts.

We need $1500.00 to cover the cost of all the boxes, so if you haven't purchased one yet, or would like to add a donation on top of what you have already given, please contact Dil.

In Christ always,

George

READINGS

Advent 3

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, December 15, 2013, the Third Sunday of Advent (Year A)

Pledge Envelopes

2014 PLEDGE

American Express had an ad campaign with the catch phrase "Membership has its privileges." One of the privileges you get as a member of Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church is the opportunity to grow in faith and to help others grow in faith. One of the ways you show your commitment to our ministry is by making a pledge of financial support. Regardless of the amount you are able to give at this time, it is a sacred privilege to make a pledged commitment to the church. Pledges are the only way that we can responsibly plan our mission and ministry for the upcoming year!

I don't expect that everyone will pledge the Old Testament standard of 10% - research has shown that the average church member in America gives 3% of their income.

I do expect every member of our church to make a pledged commitment, no matter how small or large, and begin growing their gift of generosity.

Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matthew 6:21

Spiritual growth requires a generosity of heart and the best place to start is where you worship and glorify God each week!

In Christ,

Pastor George

Please see the link to the calendar:

MDPC Calendar

Advent New Members Class - Presbyterian 101

Join us each Sunday of Advent at 9:30 am for Presbyterian 101, an introduction to the church for inquiring minds, new members, and longtime saints. Rev. George Tatro will be leading a study based on Presbyterians Today. You can pick up a copy during worship.

December 15 Sanctification pg. 42-43

December 22 Bible as our Guide pg. 44-51

Sunday, December 15

10:30 am

food pantry

HOLIDAY BOXES

Saturday, December 14th

8:30 am - 9:00 am Fellowship Breakfast

9:00 am - 11:00 am Packing of boxes

11:00 am Distribution

(additional IRC distribution dates December 21st and 23rd)

Each box costs $35.00. Any amount that you donate is appreciated. Checks can be made payable to MDPC and notated Holiday Boxes.

MEMORIAL DRIVE COMMUNITY CHILDRENS PROGRAM

Mark your calendar's for December 13, 2013. MDPCCP will present our annual Christmas program at 11:00 am in the Sanctuary. Please come and support your school.

THE ADVENT WREATH

One of the beautiful traditions of Advent is the lighting of the Advent wreath. The wreath is a circle of evergreens with four purple candles around its edge and a white candle in the center. From the first Sunday in Advent to Christmas Eve, the wreath grows in beauty and light as it helps us recall the hope, peace, love, and joy that come to us through God's gracious gift of Jesus Christ.

Each part of the wreath has a special meaning:

The round shape symbolizes the eternity of God. It is a reminder that God lived before there was a world; God lived in Jesus; God lives now and always will live.
Evergreens are used for the wreath because they live all year and never lose their needles. They testify to the continuation of life and remind us that we often see Christ in the simple and common things of nature.
The candles remind of the good news of Isaiah 9:2: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shined."

Traditionally, the four Advent candles are purple, although sometimes a pink or rose colored candle is used for the third Sunday.

First Sunday- The Candle of Hope reminds us of the hope found in Christ's birth and in the promise of his return.

Second Sunday- The Candle of Peace reminds us of the peace found in Christ through acts of repentance and service.

Third Sunday- The Candle of Love reminds us of the amazing and unending love of God.

Fourth Sunday- The Candle of Joy reminds us of the joyful news that God is with us and encourages us to have joy in working with God to restore all creation.