Family Ministry News
27 November, 2019
Getting ready...
In this first Sunday of December we find ourselves in mode of preparation; not just concerning trimming the tree or the buying and wrapping of presents, but in Advent we are preparing for both the coming of the Christ child and the return of Christ Jesus in glory at the end of time.

The prophet Isaiah foretells the coming of the Messiah and describes the Messiah as the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Yes, we as Christians see this coming true in the Christ child, but also in this Christ Jesus who promises to usher in the kingdom of heaven, the second coming. In the readings for the first Sunday of Advent, we find ourselves preparing for the return of Jesus in glory at the end of time; a time when he will come to judge the people of the earth and to inaugurate his kingdom, the new reign of the kingdom of God, “a world without end.” 

A traditional symbol for our preparation for Christ's coming, both then and now, is the Advent wreath. The circular shape of the wreath symbolizes the never-ending grace and love of God. The four candles may symbolize the past as we think about the shepherds, the angels, the star of Bethlehem and Mary and Joseph, his parents. Or the candles may point us towards the future as it symbolizes the Christian themes of faith, hope, love and joy. The large candle in the center is the Christ Candle, which is lit on Christmas Eve and remains lit during the next 12 days of the Christmas season.

Finally, Advent reminds us that Christ Jesus comes to us, weekly, in the Holy Eucharist—and in his words—the Word of God, the Word made flesh. As God-made-flesh, Jesus is present all around us, but especially in the celebration that he gave us at the supper just before he died for us: “Take this and eat. This is my body that is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” 

During the season of Advent, let us keep the real presence of “Christ before us, Christ behind us, and Christ all around us.” Thanks be to God.










This weekend our children are invited to participate in their very own Chapel service in the Parish Hall (often joined by their parents). 

Directly following the Children's Service, we will join the congregation in the sanctuary to participate in the Holy Eucharist!

Come and join us in the Parish Hall, we start at 10am.
The St. Barnabas nativity pageant is just over two weeks away! This year, Adelaide Mueller and Annie Thorp will be taking the helm to organize a spirited celebration, with some new ideas (thank you to Father Sandy for a new script!) and updates to this beloved tradition. Annie and Adelaide are seeking participation from the entire congregation (children, teens, and adults!) Please read the entirety of this email for key dates and sign-up opportunities. 
 
Sunday, December 8th (after 10am service) -
Script reading  only  for all speaking roles (Narrators, Mary, Joseph, Simeon, Gabriel, Innkeeper) 

Saturday, December 14th at 10am -
Rehearsal & costume fitting with  all participants .
Speakers may be asked to stay a bit later (11-noon) to continue rehearsing. If we go late, lunch will be provided!

Sunday, December 15th - Pageant!
Please arrive by 9:15 a.m. to dress and prepare for
the 10:00 a.m. service 
 
Some key notes:
  • We encourage any parents of young, participating children to sign up as either a King or as Animal Parent or Angel Parent Leaders.
  • We are also seeking a volunteer(s) to help organize a children's activity during the second rehearsal so that we can happily occupy all participants.
  • Any adults willing to help with costumes and/or mending would be greatly appreciated! 
  • Do you have a stuffed animal on wheels that might be appropriate for a child to pull along? Please let us know!

Please join us in making this year's pageant a success!
 
Thank you, 
Adelaide and Annie

If you are interested please clink on the link below