Entering the new year, we wanted to remind everyone who uses Facebook, that St. Jacob’s has a page. We are becoming more active with photos, devotions, and reminders of events!
It is a great way to connect with our church family online. We post Pastor David’s Sunday sermons on there as well. You can search @StJacobs.Chapin to find us!
December 12th, we found beautiful Christmas decorations adorning the tables and other areas, setting the mood for the Up and Going December Meeting. Joan and Gary had been busy getting everything ready for us. At each person’s place, there was a Christmas card from Gloria Dugan (What a pleasant surprise). Helen brought bells for each of us to wear. We were now set for the Christmas Celebration. Joan’s reading from Luke, gave a timely devotion on Angels, especially Angels to help and guide us. She reminded us that there are many earthly angels that assist us when we are in need. We sang several of our favorite Christmas Carols accompanied on the piano by Joan. After the Blessing given by Gary, we enjoyed a wonderful meal. The tables were bountifully adorned with many delicious food and dessert items.
A short business meeting was held. Then it was time for Bingo. Joan and Gary had collected Bingo gifts and instructed us on the many ways to play Bingo. We played many games and all were winners. Some prizes were traded but all brought laughter and many comments. Helen passed out peppermint candy canes and read the origin of its many features. Nineteen members and guests departed laughing and smiling.
Our next meeting is January 9th (2nd Tuesday) at 11 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Helen will have the devotions. Lunch will be chili; however, if you are not a chili fan, additional options will be available. We will be playing regifting Bingo. A sign-up sheet for lunch will be posted. Each person is asked to bring 3 re-gifting items that you have at home for Bingo prizes.
The congregational retreat to Camp St. Christopher in Charleston, SC, for January will be rescheduled to a later date. Watch your newsletter and worship folders for updated information.
All members of our St. Jacob’s church family and friends are invited to keep Christ in Christmas as we worship on Christmas Morning. This service is “come as you are.” Children in pajamas, adults in relaxed and casual dress are all most certainly welcome. Come make a joyful noise and share in the blessing of Christmas with your church family. Worship on Christmas morning begins at 10 AM.
Our Christmas Eve Service of Worship will be held on Tuesday, December 24th beginning at 7 PM. Come worship the new born King! Join us and invite your friends and neighbors for our traditional candlelight service as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Christmas is not always a joyous time for everyone. Each year, there are some who will experience the Christmas celebration for the first time without a cherished loved one. There are also others who will find themselves facing difficult circumstances in life or loneliness. Still, the love of God out shines even the darkest night.
Once again, on the longest night of the year, we will gather for worship and give thinks for the light of Christ, especially as He comes to us at Christmas. Our entire church family, friends, neighbors and community is invited and encouraged to attend this candlelight service. Please be sure to tell others about this worship opportunity of prayer, peace and the power of God’s love. Worship for Blue Christmas begins at 6:30 PM on Saturday, December 21st.
Everyone is invited and encouraged to come worship with us each Wednesday evening in December for Advent Vespers. The focus of our worship will be our Need for Redemption, God’s Promise of a Savior, and the Fulfilment of the Promise through Jesus Christ. In keeping with the worship time of our Wednesday Evening Light, Advent Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM.
On Thursday, Nov 14th Up and Going had 18 members and guests gather in the Fellowship Hall to enjoy an early Thanksgiving.
Hope to see you then.
The church family of St. Jacob’s would like to congratulate Philip Sandi on his completion of his seminary assignment with our congregation which means he will soon be serving as a NALC Pastor.
Thank you and glory be to God for raising up leaders like you for His church throughout the world.
Congratulations
Friday January 10th – Sunday, January 12th Camp St. Christopher – Seabrook Island, SC
Living and Growing as Disciples of Jesus Christ
Retreat: (noun) A place set apart, one of renewal, rejuvenation, rest; a period of time used to pray and study quietly, or to think carefully, away from normal activities and duties.
Members and friends of St. Jacob’s are invited to retreat to beautiful Camp St. Christopher and spend a weekend in thought, prayer, discussion and fellowship. Topics will include: What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? How family members share faith with one another. Take up the cross? Really?
Enjoy God’s wonderful Creation Beautiful private beach Watch the dolphins swim and play Hiking trails throughout the camp Saturday evening campfire and vespers
Winter Retreat 2020 Registration Friday January 10th – Sunday, January 12th Camp St. Christopher – Seabrook Island, SC
Living and Growing as Disciples of Jesus Christ
Cost of registration is $150.00 per participant. The following is included with your registration: Weekend Lodging (Friday evening -Sunday morning) Saturday Breakfast and Supper – Sunday Breakfast (Friday supper and Saturday lunch are on your own)
Please make checks out to: St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church Memo line designate: Winter Retreat
Assistance is available to help cover costs of registration. Please contact Pastor David Nuottila if there is a need for such assistance. Strictly confidential.
