And Happy New Year! I am looking forward to greeting 2013 with you in worship this Sunday, when I'll be preaching on "An Old Man and a Baby," there will be wonderful Epiphany music, and we will start the year right by sharing in holy communion.

 

As we look to the new year, let me share with you two things that were shared with me by church members in this season of joy and fresh commitment. First, this wonderful post-Christmas link, thanks to Ruth Ann Parish. Check it out: 

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNDtHdG5mVk&feature=youtu.be

 

And second, this blessing for the New Year, thanks to Fred Triggs. The author is unknown.

 

May God make your year a happy one!

Not by shielding you from all sorrows and pain,

But by strengthening you to bear it, as it comes;

Not by making your path easy,

But by making you sturdy to travel any path;

Not by taking hardships from you,

But by taking fear from your heart;

Not by granting you unbroken sunshine,

But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows;

Not by making your life always pleasant,

But by showing you when people and their causes need you most,

and by making you anxious to be there to help.

 

God's love, peace, hope and joy to you for the year ahead.

 

Deep blessings,

 

 

Pastor Kathlyn