A Weekly Newsletter of The First United Methodist Church
Thursday, December 15
Sunday Worship
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Message: Rev. Dr. Mark A. Fowler
"The Birth of Jesus the Messiah Took Place "
Text: Matthew 1:18-25
Music: Blessed Brass,  Chamber Choir
Prelude will begin at 8:50 a.m.
 
Worship: 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m., Sanctuary
Coffee Fellowship: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
An Advent and Christmas Invitation

We look to the future and the celebration of the birth of Jesus, who was born into this mortal world to know our joys and sorrows.
Christmas Pageant
This Sunday
10:30 a.m., Sanctuary

Join children, youth and adults who take the roles of angels, shepherds and prophets of old to re-tell the traditional story of the Holy Child 's birth. After the service, enjoy Christmas treats in Fellowship Hall. 
Longest Night Worship
Wednesday, December 21, 
7 p.m., Chapel

Engage in a quiet time of music, candlelight and reflection to gently welcome the Light of the World. 
Support Our Community Christmas Dinner

Sign up to donate a favorite Christmas treat or dessert and find out what other items are needed for the meal on Christmas Day. Look for the table and Christmas elves in the Narthex/Octagon area this Sunday.
A Few Extra Copies Available

The "booklet " of Rev. Phil Blackwell 's sermons became a "book! " If you did not reserve a copy earlier, a few books will be available this Sunday, December 18 at a table in Fellowship Hall.

Isthmus Brass Concert for Porchlight a Success

On Thursday, December 8, the Isthmus Brass thrilled a large audience with seasonal music that included classical, pop and jazz selections and traditional carols. Donations from concert-goers that night totaled over $7,000. An additional donation match from another donor brings the total to over $12,000 raised last week for Porchlight, an organization that provides housing for those in need.
" The Life of Christmas Present "

God is calling us to wake up and see our world in a new way.


Joys & Concerns
We extend our love and condolences to the family and friends of Bette Barnes, who died December 6. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.  Read Bette's obituary >
We offer prayers and sympathy to Tom German and his family upon the death of his father, Harold German, on December 3.
We extend our love and sympathy to Laura Wendt and her family. Laura's grandmother, Leola Crook, died on December 14.
Announcements
2017 Offering Envelopes Available
Please pick yours up at church one of the next few Sundays. If you need yours mailed to you, please contact Sarah Flanagan.
Contact Sarah >  or Call 608-338-1288 

Warming Up the Manger Bed
Through Sunday, December 25, Fellowship Hall
( Note extended date .) Help fill the manger with cozy hats, mittens and scarves for families at Northcott Neighborhood House.
Last Sunday for Advent Market
Share comfort and joy with a variety of fair trade items handmade locally and abroad.
Just Bakery Products for Sale in Octagon on Sunday
"Just Bakery" will offer their wonderful sweets and artisan bread in the Octagon this Sunday.  Learn More >
UMW Brunch and Program Tickets
Greet our neighbors from the Orchard Street Mosque and learn more about the Islamic faith. Music by the Raging Grannies. This will be the last Sunday to purchase these tickets at church, though reservations will still be accepted through December 30.
Memorial Honoring Lives of Our Homeless
Wednesday, December 21, 3 p.m.
We will gather at the First Church parking lot at 2:45 p.m. and walk together to the Capitol Square to join in the community procession and prayer service. Our church parking lot will not be available between Noon and 5:30 p.m. to allow for setup of the team of Clydesdale horses and carriage for this special service.
Church Women United to Honor Steve Schooler
Saturday, January 7, 9 a.m., Bethany UMC
The Human Rights Award will be presented to First Church member Steve Schooler, Executive Director of Porchlight, for his many years of leadership of this organization.
When the Weather Outside Is Frightful
We try to keep our doors open through all kinds of weather, but in the event of extreme weather conditions please check the FUMC website, Facebook page or local TV stations for notice of last minute closures or cancellations. 
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203 Wisconsin Avenue
Madison, WI 53703
608-256-9061