Pastoral note, from Garrett
The Sanctuary Choir concert on Sunday night was truly remarkable. Our music ministry offered a beautiful and moving gift, and we are deeply grateful for the care and excellence they bring to our worship each week and on special occasions. The setting only added to the experience—the sanctuary at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church provided stunning acoustics that allowed every note to resonate fully. While we missed hosting the concert in our own space due to the renovation, it was nonetheless a memorable evening that will stay with us for a long time.
On Wednesday at 6:00 p.m., we will gather for our Healing & Hope service—a quieter, more intimate Christmas worship experience created especially for those who carry grief, loss, or weariness during this season. This service is not about forcing cheer or pretending everything is fine. It’s about making room for honesty and tenderness before God.
In candlelight, prayer, music, and scripture, we will remember that the Christmas story itself begins in darkness and uncertainty, and that hope often arrives softly rather than loudly. This is not a depressing service, but a gentle one—where sorrow is honored, joy is held with care, and the promise of God’s presence is offered as a steady, healing light.
On Christmas Eve we will have two Candlelight Services at 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. Our services will be in Maresh Hall. We will sing carols, hear the story again, and light candles as we abide in the wonder of the incarnation.
This year, on Christmas Eve, we will also have a Children’s Jubilee Service at 3 p.m. This service will provide space for children to wiggle and participate in the Christmas Story. The service will focus on the wonder of Christmas and the celebration of God with us.
This Sunday (December 21) we will have the opportunity for a walk-through in the sanctuary to see the progress on the renovation.
Also, this Sunday is the annual Youth Christmas Pageant at 10 a.m. in the youth building. This has become quite the event and an offering of levity amidst the dense Advent season. Come for the story, stay for the costumes. You won’t want to miss it. It’s a short program meant to get you in and out and on to Sunday School after.
Grace and peace,
Garrett Vickrey