21 Dec Heaven and Earth Erupt Into Song

Posted at 14:03h in Pastoral Notes by

Dear Friends,

In Christ’s birth, God becomes present among us. The divine and the humble are all wrapped up together. A child is laid in a manger, and heaven and earth erupt into song–singing of hope, and peace on earth. This year, may we have courage to see the divine in our neighbors, strangers, and even our enemies. May we dare to hear the song of hope, and believe in the possibility of peace.

I love this image, part of an Advent series of art by our own Liberty Worth. I love the visual idea that Christ’s birth is a beginning point, from which emanates compassion, hope, justice, and love. They radiate out through us, as we help build God’s kingdom. I love that it’s a collage–recycled from old magazine pages. Cut apart and reassembled, they use what has been discarded to form a hopeful vision of what can be. May you see just such possibility in the world this Christmas.

I want to invite you to celebrate Christmas with us. Christmas Eve is a Sunday, and we will have 3 worship gatherings:

• 10am – Children’s Christmas Pageant in the Sanctuary – Our Children will share the story of Christmas. Sing beloved carols, hear the story in song and scripture, and a message from Pastor Molly. In person and by livestream.

• 5pm – Family Candlelight Worship in the Sanctuary, featuring our Chancel Choir. Sing carols, hold candle-light, hear a message from Pastor Molly, and experience the beauty of the night. Our prelude, featuring organ and harp, will start at 4:45. In person and by livestream.

• 11pm – Candlelight Worship with Communion in the Loft, featuring our Loft Band. Experience the holy mystery of Christmas as we celebrate Christ’s birth with music, scripture, prayer, preaching by Dr. Carter, communion, and candlelight.

Additionally, I invite you to donate to our Christmas Offering. These gifts will be given to support people in need in our community, through our Good Samaritan Fund and the Echo Park Immigrant Center. You can contribute online, or by bringing a donation to church. There is so much need around us, and it is a joy to be able to embody the love of Christ by showing up in support of neighbors.

Thank you for being a part of our community. I wish you joy this Christmas and always.

grace and peace,
Pastor Molly