Pastoral letter, from Garrett

WE ARE A PEOPLE OF HOPE

THANKS
This Wednesday at 6 p.m., we will hold our annual Woodland Thanksgiving Dinner and Service. If you haven’t reserved your place yet, call now or sign up through our REALM database. We will enjoy good food, sing together, pray, and give thanks. Instead of a homily or sermon, I will moderate a brief conversation on Thanksgiving with Conrad Navarro and Jillian Shannon. We will reflect upon the inspiration and encouragement gleaned from the practice of giving thanks—especially giving thanks together as a community. 

SUNDAY
This Sunday, after worship, the Woodland Children’s Ministry will host a Family Advent activity in Maresh Hall. Come for lunch and discover fun ways to navigate the Advent season faithfully as we prepare for Christmas.  

Tis the season to decorate the sanctuary. After worship on Sunday, we will begin decorating for Christmas. We’ll have pizza for anyone who wants to stick around and help decorate. 

HOPE
Also, December 4 will be our Hope & Healing Service. This is a contemplative service we do each year. It’s especially meant to be a helpful service for those who have gone through grief. This year, the focus will be on practicing the presence of God. Diana Bridges will be our preacher. Is there someone you know who might benefit from this worship experience? Invite them to come with you. Worship begins at 6 p.m. in the Atrium. The service usually lasts 35 minutes.

Grace & peace,

Garrett Vickrey