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As we continue in the Advent season, we are waiting for an arrival – that is what “Advent” means. It comes from the Latin word, “advenio,” which literally means “to come.” Normally we think of waiting for the arrival of the birth of Jesus Christ. And, that is exactly right. Yet, at the same time, Advent also reminds us to wait and watch for another arrival – the second coming of Jesus Christ to judge the world in power and victory.
So, during this season we look for two arrivals. We look back and celebrate God breaking into our world. At the same time, we look forward to our hope . . . the coming of Jesus Christ at the end of time. We are hemmed in, ahead and behind, by the love of God, revealed to us in Jesus Christ. We are surrounded past, present, and future. The last words of the Bible, in the Revelation of John, are the words of Jesus, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Then we read the response: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” May we be ready!!
Potential New Venue
At our recent Congregational Meeting, the congregation voted unanimously to move forward with negotiating the purchase of the building at 2910 West Main Street (Where Valley Covenant Church and Millers Supplies at Work are located). The Session has reached an agreement with the owners of the property, and we are entering our due diligence phase. PLEASE keep this important process in your prayers!
Sunday Worship
THIS SUNDAY is the SECOND Sunday in Advent. We will meet at HOPE DOWNTOWN (414 West Main Street) once again for our worship service at 9:30 a.m. We will Live Stream the service on Facebook and our Website.
Pastor Glen will continue the Advent series entitled, “A Time to . . .” This Sunday’s sermon is “A Time to Praise,” based upon Luke 2:8-14. Please read this text in preparation for worship!
We will also be celebrating the Lord’s Supper this Sunday. We are encouraged to prepare by examining our lives, per 1 Corinthians 11:27-32. If you will be participating through our Live Stream and would like to receive a communion kit, please contact Pastor Glen (drglenholman@gmail.com or 540.649.2893) by Saturday morning.
We will expect individuals and families to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines. We want to be respectful of our brothers and sisters.
- You will need to bring and wear protective masks.
- We will not pass an offering plate (a basket will be available for your tithes and offerings). Online giving opportunities are available on the website.
- Children are welcome but families must sit together. There will be no children’s classes.
Discipleship Essentials
If you are interested in growing in your faith (which is part of our church vision!), please contact Pastor Glen or Mike Adams about joining a Discipleship Triad or Quartet. These groups provide an opportunity for you to grow exponentially in your faith through intimate, accountable relationships centered on the essentials of God’s Word! PLEASE consider reaching out to participate in this type of group. During COVID-19, these groups could be held virtually.
Keep Alert
Mike Adams reminds us to be alert for needs around us as the Body of Christ in this new season we are entering. This is a great evangelistic opportunity to share the gospel, meet needs, and bring hope.
Birthdays This Month
DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS: John Severs & Sam King (December 1st); Melissa Bare (December 6th); Gail Fisher (December 14th); Ron Layne (December 18th); Kate King (December 21st); Cliff Scott (December 28th)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]