Regular Service: Sunday 9:30am

All are welcome! Please join us.

ood day to you.

Apparently Christmas is just over 2 weeks away. The sales flyers, the commercials on TV, the radio and in the newspaper will not let us forget that. It's as if we are being compelled to rush into a shopping frenzy to make Christmas Day special. The barrage of Christmas advertising makes me think that I should get around to doing a bit of shopping. I haven't started and do not intend to start anytime soon. Mind you, my shopping list is not long - a rolling pin! (psst. Don't tell R. - don't want to ruin the surprise!). I am glad my list is short as it lets me journey patiently through the days of Advent. Regardless of whether your list is short or long, might you journey patiently through the days of Advent too? I can't help but hear God calling out to us at this time of year "Peace. Be still." Yes. "Peace. Be Still" and know that we do not need to rush. We can enjoy the journey as we name our longings for hope, peace, joy and love for ourselves, those we care about and for our world. As you journey, might you continue with "Advent in a Bag" launched at worship last Sunday, December 2. I am hearing how much people are enjoying the activities and conversation. If you did not pick up your "Advent in a Bag," please get one this Sunday at worship.

Our Scripture readings this Sunday, the Second Sunday of Advent - the Promise of Peace are from the Book of Malachi, Chapter 3, verses 1 through 4 and the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 3, verses 1 through 6. In our reading from Malachi, the focus of the text is the coming of a messenger which many think refers to John the Baptist who is the focus of our Gospel of Luke reading. In our gospel reading the Word of God came to John the Baptist in the wilderness. As I reflect on this, I wonder how we too experience and hear the Word and Presence of God with us in our wilderness experiences. My sermon (always titled before I write it) is called "God Shows Up. Even to You! Even to Me!" Let's gather together this Sunday to hear God's Living Words for us.

Also please note the following:

1. This is the last Sunday to offer "White Gifts." They should be brought to church this Sunday as they will be sent on to Naomi House and Centre 507 after worship.

2. Rideau Roots Concert at Trinity United, Kars - tonight featuring Rob Lutes, Winner- 2018 Canadian Folk Music Awards - Contemporary Singer of the Year. Doors open 7:30, concert underway at 8 p.m. For more information, please see: www.rideauroots.ca or www.roblutes.com. Tickets available at the door.

3. St. James Community breakfast Saturday morning, 8-10 a.m.. Come and celebrate the joy of the season with friends, family and neighbours. Great food, lively conversation and warm smiles are yours to enjoy and share. Free-will offering.

4. OKPC Trustees are called to meet this Sunday after worship at Trinity.

5. OKPC Joint Board meets at Trinity this Sunday following the Trustees meeting. Pot-luck food offerings.

Blessings on your Friday evening and weekend.