Christmas Day is near, and many of us are busy planning and rushing to finish everything in time. However, the 2nd Sunday of Advent reminds us to pause and make room for God’s peace in the midst of our busyness. Just like hearing the beautiful Christmas carols during the Labyrinth Café last Friday, I found a moment of calm in the middle of a hectic day. The joyful music brought me back to the true meaning of Christmas— God’s gift of peace through Jesus.
Christmas Tree Decorations: The ornaments on the Sanctuary Christmas tree have been donated, over the year, by members of the congregation. This is a joyful remembrance of all those who have worshipped here, both past and present. Any new worshippers are encouraged to donate an ornament and write their family name on it.
Coffee and Presentation with Canada Connects, Sunday at 11:15 AM to 12:15 PM:Grab a coffee/goodie after the service and join us in the Park Room for a presentation by invited guest speakers from Canada Connects. The Canada Connects program introduces Government-supported refugees to Canadian volunteers who help newcomers adjust to living in Calgary.
BunchaDivas Concert for St. Giles! – Monday, Dec. 9 at 7 PM: Experience the festive magic of live a cappella with Buncha Divas as they sing holiday favorites! Tickets will be $15 for adults and $10 for 12 years old and under. Please check the bulletin board or go to Eventbrite for more information.
Advent Study Time Change – This Week Only: Led by Curt and Nichola, the Advent Study will meet this Monday, Dec 9th at 5:30 PM (instead of 7PM) to support the BunchaDivas concert.
Advent Poinsettias: The poinsettias arrived last Thursday. Order forms are available until Monday, December 16. Reserve your poinsettias today for just $20/plant and fill out the order form available in the church or call the office. A memorial dedication will be posted in the Advent 4 bulletin.
Labyrinth Café, every Friday at 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM: Thank you, Janet, Jim, and Susan W., for leading us in carol singing last Friday. December 13 will be the last café until January 10th.
Inn from the Cold: St. Giles has been supporting the Inn as once per month dinner service volunteers for the past two years. We have made a commitment to continue in this role for 2025. If you are interested in this volunteer opportunity, please speak with Susan Carmichael or contact the church office for more information. The 2025 schedule will be made up in the next few weeks and we would love to include you if you are interested.
AFTERNOON SERVICES: For those who are unable to attend morning services, there is an afternoon study and prayer at 1:30PM every Sunday at St. Giles led by Rev. Chandra.
December 8th, Second Sunday of Advent – This Sunday we are led in worship by Chandra, our minister, and by our St. Giles choir led by Michael. This week’s Bible reading are from Micah 5:2-5a, Hebrews 5:1-10, and Luke 1:26-45. These readings encourage us to trust in God’s plans, even when they seem beyond our understanding, and to respond with faith and humility. Just as Mary embraced her calling and Jesus fulfilled His mission with love, we too are invited to participate in God’s purpose, sharing His peace and hope with the world.
SCRIPTURE PASSAGE FOR REFLECTION:
He shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth, and he shall be the one of peace.
(Micah 5:4-5a)
Here is the link to our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Saintgilespresbyterian/
And Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/stgilescalgary
May this week be filled with peace and blessings for you and your family.
Buena Manalo
Office Administrator
St. Giles Presbyterian Church