First, I want to thank everyone who helped to make last weekend a great success and a wonderful blessing here at Grace.  The choir cantata, “Let the Whole World Sing”, was truly magnificent!  Thank you to Barbara Green and the Chancel Choir for your hard work and wonderful performance.  Thank you also to Gene Stremme and her assistants and especially the children for their wonderful presentation of “Guess Who’s Coming to Bethlehem” last Sunday evening.  Thank you to all the soloists and, of course, Santa and his reindeer who also helped to make the evening special.  Following the program about 100 people enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship and food around the tables.  Much thanks to Bob Stremme who took charge of the dinner and to all who helped to set up, serve and cleanup!  Your efforts are much appreciated.

Second, I want to encourage everyone to join us this Sunday (Christmas Sunday) for a time of worship and celebration.  I’ll be concluding our series, “The Cast of Christmas”, with a message entitled, “Jesus:  What’s In a Name?”  The sanctuary will be beautifully decorated with poinsettias arranged by Don and Nancy Hogeland and special music will be provided by our Sanctuary and Bell choirs.

Finally, I want to invite everyone to our annual Christmas Eve Worship Service next Monday at 7:00 P.M.  From the lighting of the Christ Candle to the singing of “Silent Night”, it should be another beautiful evening for everyone.  Our choir will be singing and the Plostnieks’ daughter, Daina Redpath, will play a violin solo.  A Christmas Children’s Chat will be presented by Casey Stauffer and my message will be entitled “Stop and Listen”.  Nursery care will be provided.  We hope to see you there!

Merry Christmas and see you in church,

Pastor George