Sermon Series December 1 - December 22, 2024

Our Advent sermon series this year is Joy to the World. The well-known Christmas hymn begins, “Joy to the world, the Lord has come!” While joy is in the air during the Christmas season, joy can feel elusive when facing difficult situations. This Advent we will rehearse once again the story that is the source of joy to the world, as well as joy to us when we need it most. The series will guide us through the first few chapters of Luke’s Christmas story, highlighting different moments when joy was found in unexpected or challenging circumstances. This four-week sermon series on joy will help prepare our hearts to fully experience and share the joy of Christmas.

Poinsettias will adorn the sanctuary this Christmas season. If you wish to remember or honor a loved one by purchasing a plant in their name, please fill out the information by clicking the registration link below. All orders must be received by noon on Monday, December 16 and will be acknowledged during Christmas Eve worship. All plants are $25 and payment is required with your order. Order forms are also available at the Welcome Center. Please contact Karen in the church office at 320.762.2196 if you have any questions.

This year's Advent of Gratitude project will support the new Alexandria campus of MN Adult & Teen Challenge. Their mission is to assist men, women, and teens in gaining freedom from chemical addictions and other life-controlling problems by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. (The Alexandria location is a men’s campus.) Needed items include toiletries, clothing, linens, Bibles, and more! A Christmas tree will be set up in the gathering space with ornaments representing the various items. Please take an ornament off the tree and place your unwrapped items or monetary donations under the tree or in the designated lock box any time during the Advent season.

Celebrate the nativity story with singing, movement, instruments, and fellowship! Paula Odland will be leading this event for kids ages 18 months - 5 years old joined by a parent or caregiver. There is no cost to attend, but we will be collecting music-inspired toys or books for a local toy drive. This event is open to the community - you are encouraged to sign up at the Welcome Center or online.

Carols and Candles is a Christmas tradition at First Lutheran. All are welcome to join us for this annual musical event featuring the Chancel Choir, Alleluia Ringers, the Orchestra, and the Alexandria Area High School Carolers. Bring a friend and get into the Christmas spirit! Doors open at 4:15pm.

PRAYERS



HEALTH CONCERNS:  

Renata Grant, Ann Hanson, Phyllis Ackerman, Roger Riley, Bryan Stoeck, Susan Schmidt, Michelle Rhen, Claude’ Martin, Jon Rosenberg, Doc Hanson, Arlou Schwendemann, Joan Moore, Marion Frisell, Kaye Crawford, and Robin Ufford.

GRIEVING:

Julie Parent & family on the death of her mom, Vivian Rindelaub.

Peggy Vogt & family on the death of her nephew, Jack Earsley.

Brent & Amy Boraas & family on the death of Brent's mom, Marlene Boraas.

Family & friends of Larraine Anderson.