December 12, 2014

First Edition  
Let's Journey Together! 
Fear is a reminder that we are creatures--
fragile, vulnerable, totally dependent on God.
But fear shouldn't dominate or control or define us.
Rather, it should submit to faith and love.
- Philip Berrigan 
Our Advent theme, "Don't be afraid!" brings us this week to consider Mary's response to the unknowable future. Rather than exerting power to control uncertainty, as King Herod did, or retreating to the desert and a rules-based system, as did John the Baptist, Mary chose another path. She offered her fear up to God, admitting her vulnerability and dependence, so she could fully live into the unknown. May it be so among us!

Pastor Ginny 

 

Call for the Annual Budget Meeting - December 14

The annual budget meeting of First Congregational Church, Granby Connecticut, is called for Sunday, December 14, 2014 in the Sanctuary immediately after worship to consider the following: 1) review and vote on the proposed 2015 budget; 2) a review and vote on an update of the current Safe Church Policy for children and youth (revised health and safety policy, emergency policy); 3) initial presentation of material pertinent to completing the Safe Church Policy, which will be reviewed and voted on at the Winter Meeting; and 4) such other business that may properly come before the meeting.

Bill Bentley, Clerk


NEW MEMBERS TO BE WELCOMED DEC. 14

Rebecca , Julie , Beth, Kerri and Doug... Several times during the year we welcome new members--people who have been attending regularly who are ready to deepen their engagement in the life of this faith community. While they promise to participate, we also make a promise--to help them identify and use their God-given gifts, and to support them as we JOURNEY TOGETHER!

 

If you are considering taking this step, please speak to Pastor Ginny or one of the deacons. 

 

  

Shopping at FCC - Alternative Gift Fair

The Alternative Gift Fair will be open for business again this Sunday in Cook Hall following the congregational meeting. As in years past, a wide assortment of gifts for giving are available... crafts, toys, apparel and jewelry made by artisans in developing countries through 10,000 Villages, animals to "purchase" and give on someone's behalf from Heifer Project, and the Angel Tree, to benefit Hartford's Maternal and Infant Program. 
 

"Kids in Community" Project

KIC (Kids in Community) kids in Kindergarten through 8th grade are invited to make and deliver a special holiday craft to residents of Meadow Brook in Granby this December. We're making very special paper snowflakes with a holiday message to decorate and brighten up all 57 rooms at Meadow Brook. We'll be finalizing the crafts this Sunday right after Church during the Church Meeting. Members of G-Crew will help out and supervise. After Church on Sunday December 21st, we will carpool to visit with residents and deliver the crafts and will be back at Church by 12:30. If you have not submitted a KIC (Kids in Community) permission slip this year for KIC events, please print the form or pick one up outside the offices and bring it on Sunday 12/14 or 12/21. If you have questions, please contact Linda Smyth at lmsmyth@cox.net or 860-653-5885.  

Click here to print:   KIC permission slip.

 

Blue Christmas Service - December 18, 7pm  

For many people who have experienced loss, the approaching Christmas holiday can be a trying time. Our Blue Christmas service, open to the entire community, offers worship in a more quiet and solemn mood as we acknowledge those losses.

  

G Crew Caroling and Christmas Party - December 19, 5pm

Meet at the church at next Friday afternoon at 5pm for caroling. Party following at Rebecca's farmhouse.All highschoolers and returning college students are welcome to attend! 

  

Christmas Eve

5 pm - Family Service for Children of all Ages
9pm - Candles and Carols

Middle Schoolers - Stargazing with Scott Tracy & Rebecca
Save the dates - December 28 & 29 - Weather will determine which evening will be the best.

Simply Smiles Mission Trip

The Third Annual FVA Mission Trip is scheduled for May 2-9, 2015. An informational meeting will be held Wednesday, January 7 at 7pm at Avon Congregational Church. Bryan Nurnberger, President & Founder, will be at Terryville Congregational Church on January 11 for Worship at 10am if anyone is interested. Any questions, email zackmabe@hotmail.com.  

 

Contacts 

Sue Miltenberger (Office Manager)
Rev. Ginny McDaniel (Senior Minister)

Jerron Jorgensen (Music Director)  

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