Monday, December 9, 2013

greens, candy canes, & sand dollars

Hanging of the Greens Bulletin 2013, Regular Size (Package of 50)
Our new pastor introduced the "Hanging of the Greens" service to our church last Sunday. It was one of the most meaningful services I've ever seen. The service included the lighting of the Advent Wreath, the Hanging of the Greens, the Lighting of the Tree, Decorating the Sanctuary with Poinsettias, Lighting the Candles, Adorning the Altar with the Nativity, and ended in Holy Communion. For each part, scripture was read and Christmas songs were sung. It was such a touching service, especially when every member placed a Chrismon ornament personalized with a deceased family member's name on the tree.  I hope this becomes an annual tradition, what a great way to start the season and the first Sunday of Advent.
I've also loved the children's sermon the past two weeks. Last week, we heard The Legend of the Sand Dollar. I had never heard it before, what a great story.

The Legend
of the Sand Dollar



There's a pretty little legend
That I would like to tell
Of the birth and death of Jesus
Found in this lowly shell

If you examine closely,
You'll see that you find here
Four nail holes and a fifth one
Made by a Roman's Spear.

On one side the Easter Lily,
Its center is the star
That appeared unto the shepherds
And led them from afar.

The Christmas poinsettia
Etched on the other side
Reminds us of His birthday
Our Happy Christmastide.

Now break the center open
And here you will release
The five white doves awaiting
To spread Good Will and Peace.

This simple little symbol,
Christ left for you and me
To help us spread His Gospel
Through all eternity.

Anonymous
 

 
This week the lesson was the story behind the Candy Cane.
 


We have a full church calendar the next two weeks, I won't be able to fit it all in but I will be going to the Christmas Prayer Breakfast {a holiday favorite}, the Choir's Cantata and Children's Program, and of course, the Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve.
{I still can't believe Christmas is just 2 weeks away!!!}
 
 
 

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