Come, connect with neighbours, get energized for your weekend to do list, and help support a new program we are partnering on in support of students at Hanwell Park Academy!

 

 

Christmas Greetings

Beloved family and friends of St. James’ Presbyterian Church,

As we immerse ourselves in the warmth of this sacred season, my heart swells with gratitude and joy for the extraordinary community we have shared over the years at St. James. Each one of you brings a unique light to our collective journey, and as we approach Christmas, I find myself reflecting on the significance of our shared traditions.

Recalling my first Christmas Eve service with you, I smile as I remember the friendly advice I received:  never omit “Silent Night” by candlelight as our concluding carol. This got me thinking:  Why does singing this hymn by candlelight hold such a special place in our hearts?

I think the answer lies in the profound message it carries – a reminder of the humble birth of Jesus the Christ in Bethlehem and the peace that his arrival brought to the world.  Knowing too that this tradition has been shared by generations of believers before us, including parents, grandparents and family members long before our time, is a pretty wondrous testament to God’s steadfast presence and work in the world.

Yet, some might suggest “Hark! the herald angels sing” should be the concluding hymn, emphasizing that the joyous response to the birth of Jesus is meant to be shared, just as the angel of the Lord and the multitude of the heavenly host shared the good news with the shepherds who, in turn, visited the Christ-child and shared their experiences with all they encountered.

In contemplating our song of faith in response to the angels’ message, consider this:

I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people:
to you is born this day 
in the city of David a Saviour,
who is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2: 10-11)

This year, some may find Christmas a bit challenging.  The world feels darker, and more people feel overwhelmed and depleted.  Amidst a deep concern for humanity and creation, you might also feel more ill-equipped to care for yourself, your family and all your responsibilities.  Some have spoken of a loss of identity and purpose, more unresolved conflicts, the need for self-preservation, and a search for faith and truth amidst confusing voices.  We have also become more aware of the challenges of passing on skills and knowledge to younger generations and finding the right supports to help them grow and thrive.

In times like these, it is even more crucial to gather in community, to come to the manger, and allow yourself and your family to hear the good news firsthand.  Let the angel speak to you.  Let God nourish you.  Let the Light of the World shine his goodness on you.

Isaiah prophesied (Isaiah 9: 2, 6, 7a) “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shined.  For a child has been born for us, a son given to us: authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually”

Jesus said “Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7: 7-8).  Come, let us journey and seek Christ together at the manger on Christmas Eve for our 7 p.m. all-ages service. Sing carols, experience the Christmas story, connect with the shepherds, the angels, your community, and Christ himself. Be nourished during communion. Be the light in the darkness as we sing by candlelight. This sacred tradition is an opportunity for us to come together, sharing the hope, love, peace and joy that Christ’s arrival brings into our lives. The service will also be live-streamed on our YouTube channel and Facebook page.

For families, children can come in their pjs to help with their bedtime routine later.  The 7 p.m. service, we hope, will allow adequate time before or after service for families or friends to share supper together in their homes (and maybe open gifts too!). And, yes, we will conclude our service with the timeless “Silent Night,’ capturing the quiet and reverent joy that unites us in Christ, but there will be other candlelight moments too. As Love’s pure light fills us, see how collectively we are strengthened in light and love.  Such a powerful image of hope in the darkness – the light of the candles and the light of believers together… a hope that people need to see, feel, and feed in these darker times. Come, young and old, open your hearts to the gifts of that holy night and allow the Word of God to shine brightly within us.

As we embark on a new liturgical year and approach the end of the calendar year, on behalf of the session, I express our deep appreciation for your faith, discipleship, and support of Christ’s ministry through St. James.  Through your time, presence, words, prayers, gifts, offerings, and service, we continue to bear witness to God’s presence in the world.

As we look to the future, our hope is that as a community of faith, we will grow – with the help of the Holy Spirit – in worship, faith, relationships, and care for God’s creation.  May Love’s pure light deepen our understanding of who we are and inspire us to share God’s life-transforming gifts, bringing joy to others.  We hope to be a community that embodies the spirit of Christmas year-round – a people and place of worship, fellowship, community support, and outreach.

Should you feel moved to further support Christ’s ministry through St. James with a special Christmas offering, enclosed is an envelope for your convenience.  E-transfers are also accepted at sjchurch@nbnet.nb.ca .  On behalf of Session, I wish to thank you for your generous spirit.

May the joy of Christmas fill your hearts and homes with warmth, and may the spirit of giving, love and community guide us into the coming year! God bless you and your loved ones!

In Christ’s love,

Rev. Wendy MacWilliams on behalf of the session of St. James Presbyterian Church