St. Paul, Herbert – is the congregation where I travel a half hour east of Swift Current (on the Trans Canada divided highway) one day each week. I feel especially close with these folks as I have gotten to know them a bit better through visits to their homes, plus our weekly bible study.
I have selected this photo because it shows off the most outstanding feature – their lighted stained glass cross. Isn’t it beautiful?
I wanted to highlight the altar which is lovely. This is how the altar was decorated for Christmas Eve, where I led a “Lessons & Carols” service. You’ll see numerous votives on the altar. We had so many candles lit – gradually – throughout the service that there was so much light … the True Light coming into the world!
I love the nativity set and Advent log which they used. Below is a manger which will have a baby Jesus processed to it during the service. Check out the additional photos with this link. I love the fact that the doll that the congregational family brought is a Black baby Jesus I was delighted when I went to tell the children’s story, after baby Jesus was processed in. I used glow sticks as part of the children’s message, and that was a big hit!
We ended up having a nice turnout of probaby 40-50 people, ten of whom were kids. Our music was wonderful and it was a blessed first Christmas Eve in ministry leadership.
Very nice! So glad you have had such a memorable first Advent/Christmas in ministry.
Happy New Year! Blessings … in abundance!