December 24, 2019
Christmas Intersection
Howard Thurman, in his book, Deep River and the Negro Spiritual, writes about Christmas: “The human spirit makes a dual demand with reference to God - that God be vast, the Lord of Life, Creator, Ruler, King, in a sense imperial; and that He also be intimate, primary, personal.”

When your guests arrive this Christmas Eve, take the extra time to greet and welcome them! They may be like the shepherds who wish to come and "see this thing that has happened, that the Lord has made known to us.” Luke 2:15

May you see the God of the heralding angels, vast and imperial, and the God in the baby Jesus - intimate, primary and personal. May you and yours experience this all-encompassing God this Christmas and throughout the New Year!

Blessings,
-- Jackie
Next Month: Welcome our Special Guest
The Rev. J. Herbert Nelson, Stated Clerk of the Presbytery (USA) will be visiting Baltimore from January 26 - 29th. He is available to preach Sunday morning, the 26th, at one of our churches.

If you are interested in hosting, please contact Jackie at jtaylor@baltimorepresbytery.org.
"Give Peace a Chance. Be the Change"
The In-the-Loop Ministry Group will sponsor its First Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Spoken Word Contest on January 20, 2020. The contest is for 4th to 12th graders and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes will be awarded at each school level -- elementary, middle and high school. Applications and Rules for the contest are posted online .  For more information, contact Annette Snyder, (410) 207-2520, or the Hunting Ridge Presbyterian Church office, (410) 566-2926.
Notice to Churches
The Statistical Reporting Season has begun. Clerks of Session can access the reporting portal online . Be sure to click “accept” before moving to the next section to avoid losing the information you have entered.
Events
Taize Prayer
Join Taizé Baltimore for a time of meditative singing and prayer modeled after the Taizé Community in France. Singing simple phrases with harmonies and musical accompaniment, in a candle filled space around the cross, the prayer practice of Taizé is a deeply spiritual and reflective time. We gather the last Friday of each month at 7:30 PM at Maryland Presbyterian Church (1105 Providence Road, Towson) and all are welcome to join.
Connect at The Center Happy Hour
Connect at the Center for their first annual Happy Hour and Silent Auction Fundraiser. Hear how your financial support makes their ministry possible. Your ticket gives access to an open bar, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and a chance to bid on a collection of silent auction items. 5 - 7 pm. Tickets available online .
Help Wanted
Music Director / Instrumentalist
Second Presbyterian Church in Baltimore seeks a Music Director/ Instrumentalist to work collaboratively with the Pastors and members of the congregation to lead and encourage people of all ages, cultures, and talents to participate in the music ministry of the Church in order to enhance the worship experience and encourage spiritual growth through music. Full job description
Director of Music
Highland Presbyterian Church in Street, MD desires person w/heart for worship and love for Jesus. Responsibilities: Coordinate and plan music program to include leading and directing Chancel Choir and Praise/Gospel Team and oversee development of children’s music program. Work with Pastor and Worship Commission. Accomplished piano skills required. Part-time. For 10 am. worship service. Call (410) 452-9394.
General Assembly Volunteers
The Committee on Local Arrangements (COLA) is seeing creative and energetic individuals to lead a team or be part of a workgroup for June’s General Assembly in Baltimore. Available roles include: Fundraising Co-Chair, Media & Communications Chair, and Welcome Reception Volunteers. For additional information, contact Sonce.Reese@pcusa.org or (410) 433-2012.
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