A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M -Executive Committee, Wednesday, February 27, at P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 27 were $3,657.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of February. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Valentines’ Dinner – February 15, 2019 See “No Risk” Note below For many years, our Church has arranged a fun-filled Valentine’s Dinner. If you are interested in attending,please let David Almond know (228-2414) or davidkalmond44@gmail.com). The Valentines’ Dinner is not restricted to United Church folks, so everyone should feel free to invite others. It is not a couples-only event. David has arranged for a dinner at the Landgrove Inn on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2019 - cash bar from 6:00 to 7:00 PM - dinner from 7:00 to 9:00 PM - order from menu - use your credit card to cover costs (usually about $30 per person plus beverages) “NO RISK” Note: Traveling to and from the Landgrove Inn in 2018 was difficult due to unusually severe wintry weather. You can sign up to attend the 2019 Valentine’s Dinner and cancel at the last minute, due to weather conditions or other circumstances. No funds are collected unless you actually attend the event. So there is no monetary risk involved in initially signing up to attend. Microphone for Announcements Several members of the congregation have mentioned that they are unable to hear other members when they make announcements or share prayer concerns. To address this, the Executive Committee has agreed to use our wireless microphones. When you wish to make an announcement, please indicate your intention by raising your hand and someone will come to you with a microphone. To work effectively, the microphone needs to be held very close...within an inch of your mouth. We are very lucky to have the microphones available so that everyone can hear important announcements. Do not be bashful in using them! The trustees of the United Church of Ludlow are working on a plan for adding handicap access to the church and rebuilding the rear stairs. We will also try to incorporate handicap parking and better access to the rear entrance. We currently are looking at two options, one being a ramp with steps incorporated to access a landing and new rear door. The other option would include an enclosed space with stairs and a LULA lift. (Limited Use Limited Application) As we look at these options, cost will become a big factor. While the church does have some money available for this project, the trustees feel that there may be grant money available from various organizations which would allow us to create the best system for our needs, without completely depleting our cash reserves. We ask that if anyone in the congregation has experience with grant applications, has an idea of who we may contact, or is willing to assist in the process to please let us know. You may contact Dean Alexander either by calling 228-2442 or by email at (diggerda@aol.com). If you have any other questions, thoughts or ideas you may also bring it to the attention of one of the trustees. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M -Executive Committee, Wednesday, February 27, at P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 20 were (no service on the 20th). The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Rest in Peace Norman J. Vanasse died this past week on January 22, 2019. Our sympathy is extended to the family. Valentines’ Dinner – February 15, 2019 See “No Risk” Note below. For many years, our Church has arranged a fun-filled Valentine’s Dinner. If you are interested in attending,please let David Almond know (228-2414) or davidkalmond44@gmail.com). The Valentines’ Dinner is not restricted to United Church folks, so everyone should feel free to invite others. It is not a couples-only event. David has arranged for a dinner at the Landgrove Inn on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2019 - cash bar from 6:00 to 7:00 PM - dinner from 7:00 to 9:00 PM - order from menu - use your credit card to cover costs (usually about $30 per person plus beverages) “NO RISK” Note: Traveling to and from the Landgrove Inn in 2018 was difficult due to unusually severe wintry weather. You can sign up to attend the 2019 Valentine’s Dinner and cancel at the last minute, due to weather conditions or other circumstances. No funds are collected unless you actually attend the event. So there is no monetary risk involved in initially signing up to attend. Microphone for Announcements Several members of the congregation have mentioned that they are unable to hear other members when they make announcements or share prayer concerns. To address this, the Executive Committee has agreed to use our wireless microphones. When you wish to make an announcement, please indicate your intention by raising your hand and someone will come to you with a microphone. To work effectively, the microphone needs to be held very close...within an inch of your mouth. We are very lucky to have the microphones available so that everyone can hear important announcements. Do not be bashful in using them! Handicap Access to Church The trustees of the United Church of Ludlow are working on a plan for adding handicap access to the church and rebuilding the rear stairs. We will also try to incorporate handicap parking and better access to the rear entrance. We currently are looking at two options, one being a ramp with steps incorporated to access a landing and new rear door. The other option would include an enclosed space with stairs and a LULA lift. (Limited Use Limited Application) As we look at these options, cost will become a big factor. While the church does have some money available for this project, the trustees feel that there may be grant money available from various organizations which would allow us to create the best system for our needs, without completely depleting our cash reserves. We ask that if anyone in the congregation has experience with grant applications, has an idea of who we may contact, or is willing to assist in the process to please let us know. You may contact Dean Alexander either by calling 228-2442 or by email at (diggerda@aol.com). If you have any other questions, thoughts or ideas you may also bring it to the attention of one of the trustees. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M -Executive Committee, Wednesday, February 27, at P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 13 were $1,101.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Valentines’ Dinner – February 15, 2019 See “No Risk” Note below For many years, our Church has arranged a fun-filled Valentine’s Dinner. If you are interested in attending, please let David Almond know (228-2414) or davidkalmond44@gmail.com). The Valentines’ Dinner is not restricted to United Church folks, so everyone should feel free to invite others. It is not a couples-only event. David has arranged for a dinner at the Landgrove Inn on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2019 - cash bar from 6:00 to 7:00 PM - dinner from 7:00 to 9:00 PM - order from menu - use your credit card to cover costs (usually about $30 per person plus beverages) “NO RISK” Note: Traveling to and from the Landgrove Inn in 2018 was difficult due to unusually severe wintry weather. You can sign up to attend the 2019 Valentine’s Dinner and cancel at the last minute, due to weather conditions or other circumstances. No funds are collected unless you actually attend the event. So there is no monetary risk involved in initially signing up to attend. Microphone for Announcements Several members of the congregation have mentioned that they are unable to hear other members when they make announcements or share prayer concerns. To address this, the Executive Committee has agreed to use our wireless microphones. When you wish to make an announcement, please indicate your intention by raising your hand and someone will come to you with a microphone. To work effectively, the microphone needs to be held very close...within an inch of your mouth. We are very lucky to have the microphones available so that everyone can hear important announcements. Do not be bashful in using them! Handicap Access The trustees of the United Church of Ludlow are working on a plan for adding handicap access to the church and rebuilding the rear stairs. We will also try to incorporate handicap parking and better access to the rear entrance. We currently are looking at two options, one being a ramp with steps incorporated to access a landing and new rear door. The other option would include an enclosed space with stairs and a LULA lift. (Limited Use Limited Application) As we look at these options, cost will become a big factor. While the church does have some money available for this project, the trustees feel that there may be grant money available from various organizations which would allow us to create the best system for our needs, without completely depleting our cash reserves. We ask that if anyone in the congregation has experience with grant applications, has an idea of who we may contact, or is willing to assist in the process to please let us know. You may contact Dean Alexander either by calling 228-2442 or by email at (diggerda@aol.com). If you have any other questions, thoughts or ideas you may also bring it to the attention of one of the trustees. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -Executive Meeting - February 27 at 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending January 6 were $1.716.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Valentines’ Dinner For many years, our Church has arranged for a Valentines’ Dinner. If you are interested in having one of these fun-filled evenings this year, please let David Almond know. The Valentine's Dinner is not restricted to United Church folks so everyone should feel free to invite others. If enough people are interested, David will arrange for a dinner at the Landgrove Inn on - Friday, February 15, 2019 - cash bar from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. - dinner from to 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. - order from menu; - use your own credit card to cover costs (usually about $30 per person plus beverages). Contact David at 228-2414 or davidkalmond44@gmail.com A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -New Year’s Epiphany Communion – Sunday, January 6, 2019, 10:15 A.M. -Executive Committee, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 30 were $777.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of January. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at
802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -New Year’s Epiphany Communion – Sunday, January 6, 2019, 10:15 A.M. -Executive Committee, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the weeks ending December 23 and December 24 were $4,643.00. Pastor’s Gift Offerings - $130 and Veterans of the Cross - $25. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. A New Year’s Vesper Service welcoming the beginning of 2019 will be held at the First Universalist Parish of Chester located at 211 North Street/Route 103, Chester, Vermont on December 31, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. This years’ service includes readings and prayers for the children of the world especially those suffering at the hands of war and civil unrest. Pastor Harpster will be participating in the service. All are welcome to attend. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at
802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church. Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -Dedication of Christmas Fund Veterans of the Cross Offering – December 23 during the service. -Christmas Eve Service – Monday, December 24, 7:30 P.M. -New Year’s Epiphany Communion – Sunday, January 6, 2019, 10:15 A.M. -Executive Committee, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 16 were $1,823.00 ($1,060 General Offerings, $350 Pastors Gift, $353 Christmas Flowers, $60 Veterans of the Cross Fund) The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Season of Advent The Advent Season, in preparation for the birth of our savior continues this Sunday. Bob and Ginny Kottkamp will lead us in the lighting of the Fourth Advent Candle – Joy. Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. 2018 Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund In this holy and joyous time of year, our thoughts turn to the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the light of the world. For 117 years, the Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund has been a way in which we, as members of the United Church of Christ and the predecessor denominations, reflect the love of Jesus Christ in the lives of the many women and men who have so faithfully and selflessly served, and who now find themselves facing unforeseen financial crises. The offering will be dedicated on Sunday, December 23 during the service. An offering envelope is enclosed in the bulletin. Joy, Wonder and Happiness Your generous gifts have been picked up and people have spent many days sorting, organizing and packing them with boxes of food for families in our area. Many in the United Church not only gave gifts but helped as the food and toys were delivered near and far on December 20th. Parents will feel joy knowing they will be able to share a Christmas meal with their families and see the joy and wonder in their children’s eyes as they gaze at the presents under the tree. A day of happiness will be shared by many thanks to the efforts of our great community. Thank you all from Black River Good Neighbors for sharing the joy and true meaning of the holiday season. CHRISTMAS CHEER AT THE THOMSON’S George and Linda invite you and your family to enjoy some Christmas Cheer at their home following the Christmas Eve Service December 24. An RSVP would be helpful. Thomson131VT@gmail.om or 802-228-6275 CHRISTMAS FLOWER MEMORIALS IN MEMORY OF Mr. and Mrs. Victor E. Lucas Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Harpster Mr. James E. Harpster Mrs. Johanna L. Harpster by: The Rev. Dr. Donald E. Harpster Mr. Benjamin E Harpster Mr. Matthew L. Harpster IN HONOR OF FRIEND AND FAMILY by: John and Carol Wu IN MEMORY OF OUR LOVED ONES Florence and Jack Stolp Susan Stolp Vieser Mary and Tom Dady James kennedy Dady Gwynne Galarneau by: Loren and Bernadine Stolp IN LOVING MEMORY OF Jane Creaser Virginia and Donald Ellison by: Laura, Allison and Jesse IN MEMORY OF MARILYN TRICK by: Penny Trick IN MEMORY OF OUR PARENTS Jud and Judy Nelson & George and Rose Macintyre by: Marge and Gary Macintyre IN HONOR OF OUR FLOWER LADIES Jean and Laura by: Anonymous IN MEMORY OF DEPARTED LOVED ONES by: Robert and Sally Watts Jean Eggleston Janet and Ralph Pace IN MEMORY OF IGGY MATULONIS by: Anne and Michele A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -Dedication of Christmas Fund Veterans of the Cross Offering – December 23 during the service. -Christmas Eve Service – Monday, December 24, 7:30 P.M. -New Year’s Epiphany Communion – Sunday- January 6, 2019, 10:15 A.M. -Executive Committee, Wednesday-January 9, 2019, 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 9 were $2,585.00. ($2,250 general offerings, $140 Pastor’s Gift and $195 Veterans of the Cross). The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Season of Advent The Advent Season, in preparation for the birth of our savior continues this Sunday. Marge Macintyre and Penny Trick will lead us in the lighting of the Third Advent Candle – Love. Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Christmas Flowers Christmas Season is approaching. If you would like to make a donation for the Christmas flowers in memory or in honor of loved ones, please contact Linda Alexander or Jean Eggleston. TIS THE SEASON The tree in Fellowship Hall welcomes the holidays and is decorated with bows and bowties this year! While most of us have just enjoyed the bounty of Thanksgiving and anticipate the joys of Christmas, many families in our community continue to struggle. Thus, on the back of every bowtie is the name of a child, his or her size and items on a wish list. Only suggestions; any item big or small is appreciated and needed, particularly warm clothing. The United Church has always been most generous. If you select a child, please place the unwrapped items in a bag with the bowtie attached under the tree by December 15th at the latest. Presents can then be delivered with Holiday Food Baskets from Black River Good Neighbors on December 20th. If you are able to be a driver and help out with the deliveries on December 20th, please talk to Lee Potter, Bob Kottkamp or call Jane Pixley at 226-7622. Black River Good Neighbors appreciates your spirit of generosity and wishes everyone a joyful Holiday Season with family and friends. 2018 Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund In this holy and joyous time of year, our thoughts turn to the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the light of the world. For 117 years, the Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund has been a way in which we, as members of the United Church of Christ and the predecessor denominations, reflect the love of Jesus Christ in the lives of the many women and men who have so faithfully and selflessly served, and who now find themselves facing unforeseen financial crises. The offering will be dedicated on Sunday, December 23 during the service. An offering envelope is enclosed in the bulletin. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -Dedication of Christmas Fund Veterans of the Cross Offering – December 23 during the service. -Christmas Eve Service – Monday, December 24, 7:30 P.M. -New Year’s Epiphany Communion – Sunday, January 6, 2019, 10:15 A.M. -Executive Committee, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 7:00 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending December 2 were $1,017.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Season of Advent The Advent Season, in preparation for the birth of our savior, begins this Sunday. Jim and Sandy Peplau will lead us in the lighting of the Second Advent Candle – Peace. Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Christmas Flowers Christmas Season is approaching. If you would like to make a donation for the Christmas flowers in memory or in honor of loved ones, please contact Linda Alexander or Jean Eggleston. TIS THE SEASON The tree in Fellowship Hall welcomes the holidays and is decorated with bows and bowties this year! While most of us have just enjoyed the bounty of Thanksgiving and anticipate the joys of Christmas, many families in our community continue to struggle. Thus, on the back of every bowtie is the name of a child, his or her size and items on a wish list. Only suggestions; any item big or small is appreciated and needed, particularly warm clothing. The United Church has always been most generous. If you select a child, please place the unwrapped items in a bag with the bowtie attached under the tree by December 8th or the 15th at the latest. Presents can then be delivered with Holiday Food Baskets from Black River Good Neighbors on December 20th. If you are able to be a driver and help out with the deliveries on December 20th, please talk to Lee Potter, Bob Kottkamp or call Jane Pixley at 226-7622. Black River Good Neighbors appreciates your spirit of generosity and wishes everyone a joyful Holiday Season with family and friends. A COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Presented by FOLA Ludlow Town Hall at Heald Auditorium Friday, December 14 at 7:00 P.M. Come see Lisha, Fred, Dean, Andy and Sandra in some delightful performances. 2018 Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund In this holy and joyous time of year, our thoughts turn to the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the light of the world. For 117 years, the Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund has been a way in which we, as members of the United Church of Christ and the predecessor denominations, reflect the love of Jesus Christ in the lives of the many women and men who have so faithfully and selflessly served, and who now find themselves facing unforeseen financial crises. The offering will be dedicated on Sunday, December 23 during the service. An offering envelope is enclosed in the bulletin. A warm welcome to all visitors. If the Pastor or any member of the congregation may be of service to you, please contact the church office at 802-228-4211 or Rev. Harpster at 802-875-8895. His email is harpsterd@vermontel.net. Please be sure to sign the guestbook located at the entrance to the church.
Regarding Individuals in the Hospital or Sick at Home It would be greatly appreciated if you know of individuals or family members in the hospital or sick at home, to kindly inform the pastor, Rev. Harpster. Upcoming Meetings/Events -Women’s Group - Every Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. -Dedication of Christmas Fund Veterans of the Cross Offering – December 23 -Christmas Eve Service – Monday, December 24, 7:30 P.M. Weekly Offerings Offerings and other cash receipts for the week ending November 25 were $550.00. The costs for each week are $1,188.00. (derived by dividing the annual budget by 52 weeks). Season of Advent The Advent Season, in preparation for the birth of our savior, begins this Sunday. George and Linda Thomson will lead us in the lighting of the first Advent Candle – Hope. Altar Guild Jean Eggleston and Linda Alexander will do the Altar Guild duties for the month of December. Coffee Hour A time of fellowship following the service of worship is held in the social hall. Coffee, juice and refreshments will be served. Christmas Flowers Christmas Season is approaching. If you would like to make a donation for the Christmas flowers in memory or in honor of loved ones, please contact Anne Oakes. Springfield Community Chorus Holiday Concerts The Springfield Community Chorus under the direction of Ken Olssen will present its Holiday Concerts at First Baptist Church, Chester, Vermont on Saturday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m.and at First Congregational Church UCC, Springfield, Vermont on December 2 at 3:00 p.m. Handel’s Messiah – Grace Church On Sunday, December 2, Grace Church will present the annual performances of Handel’s Messiah. The Rutland Area Chorus, soloists and orchestra will perform the concerts at 3:30 P.M. and 7 P.M. under the direction of Alastair Stout, Minister of Music at Grace Church. The Messiah soloists are: Allison Devery-Steinmetz of Montpelier, soprano; Amy Frostman of South Burlington, alto; Cameron Steinmetz of Montpelier, tenor; and Zebulun McLellan of Tinmouth, bass. Handel’s Messiah, one of the great Baroque choral masterpieces, depicts the prophecy and birth of Jesus Christ as told by Isaiah, the prophet and the writers of the Gospels. A free will offering will be received and a reception will follow the 7 P.M. performance. TIS THE SEASON The tree in Fellowship Hall welcomes the holidays and is decorated with bows and bowties this year! While most of us have just enjoyed the bounty of Thanksgiving and anticipate the joys of Christmas, many families in our community continue to struggle. Thus, on the back of every bowtie is the name of a child, his or her size and items on a wish list. Only suggestions; any item big or small is appreciated and needed, particularly warm clothing. The United Church has always been most generous. If you select a child, please place the unwrapped items in a bag with the bowtie attached under the tree by December 8th or the 15th at the latest. Presents can then be delivered with Holiday Food Baskets from Black River Good Neighbors on December 20th. If you are able to be a driver and help out with the deliveries on December 20th, please talk to Lee Potter, Bob Kottkamp or call Jane Pixley at 226-7622. Black River Good Neighbors appreciates your spirit of generosity and wishes everyone a joyful Holiday Season with family and friends. 2018 Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund In this holy and joyous time of year, our thoughts turn to the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the light of the world. For 117 years, the Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund has been a way in which we, as members of the United Church of Christ and the predecessor denominations, reflect the love of Jesus Christ in the lives of the many women and men who have so faithfully and selflessly served, and who now find themselves facing unforeseen financial crises. The offering will be dedicated on Sunday, December 23. An offering envelope is enclosed in the bulletin. |