ADVENT/CHRISTMAS NEWS FROM PEOPLES

As you might expect, there is much in the works at Peoples as we celebrate the seasons of Advent and Christmas.  Our theme this year is "ANTICIPATION" and there is much to look forward to.

Throughout Advent we will be offering opportunities to reach out and benefit others.  These missions begin November 29.

PRAYER STARS

We will be increasing our involvement in assisting victims of human trafficking by collecting items to provide some basic needs.  Items being collected for the packages are:  bar of soap, wash cloth, small comb, shampoo, toothbrush & toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, socks, candy/gum, snacks, juice box or juice pouch.  We are also collecting financial donations which will be used to purchase the packing bags and any needed items.  Supporters will be offered a Prayer Star on which they can write a prayer.  The stars will be hung in the chancel.   A gathering will be held in January to put the packages together.  More information will come as the day approaches.   Of course, as always, we continue to collect Hannaford Gift Cards. 

ADVENT BOXES

Because you requested it, we bring back the Advent Boxes.  Designed to remind us of how many ways we are blessed, simply pick up a box, follow the directions, and return the box on Christmas Eve or December 27.  And, as we remember the blessings in our lives, we can share those blessings with a variety of missions throughout the world.  All donations received through the Advent Boxes will help support UMCOR first responders, UMC camp ministries, the World Service Fund (providing relief to over 100 third worls countries), and more. 

WORSHIP & EVENTS CALENDAR

 Nov. 29--First Sunday of Advent:  We gather at 10 am for our traditional Hanging of the Greens service.  Remember to bring an ornament to hang on the tree.  This is also the final day for collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Root Cellar Ministry.

Dec. 5--Victorian Christmas Fair:  Our annual fair begins at 9 am on Saturday.  Crafts, gifts, baked good, treasures, books and luncheon are featured.  

Dec. 6--Second Sunday of Advent:  Our Advent theme continues in worship at 10 am with the message "Stepping Out Of The Darkness."

Dec. 13--Third Sunday of Advent:  Peoples celebrates its new partnership with Spiral Arts with a Christmas card making workshop in the Vestry following worship.  Refreshments will be provided.  Our message in worship is "Priorities."  A Hymn Sing will begin in the Sanctuary at 9:45 am!

Dec. 20--Fourth Sunday of Advent:  Worship is at 10 am and our message will be "Great Expectations"

Dec. 21--Blue Christmas Service:  The Christmas season can be a difficult time for many.  It is hard to deal with loss and other challenges, especially during time of year.  This service acknowledges those struggles as we gather to offer support and comfort.  We gather at 7 pm on this, the longest night of the year.

Dec. 24--Christmas Eve:  Please join us at 7 PM for a candlelight service of Lessons and Carols.

Dec. 27--First Sunday After Christmas:  We continue celebrating the Christmas season in worship at 10 am with a Christmas Cantata.

Jan. 3--Epiphany Sunday:  We gather for a special service at 10 am, where we will take a musical journey through the liturgical year.

Please check our Facebook page and Sunday bulletins for more information and regular updates.  See you at PEOPLES during this most joyous season.