December is a month of mixed messages and mixed emotions. For anyone who has experienced loss or sadness, the holidays can be difficult, or at the least, stir up emotions.  Whether it is a public loss, like a death in the family or a divorce, or a more private sadness, it can be hard to move through a season when the expectations are high energy, big smiles, and full schedules.

Recognizing that some of us need a time to pause, a quiet time and space set apart during the Advent Season, Grace hosts our annual “Silent Night” service on Monday, December 11, at 6:30 pm, in the sanctuary.  It is a quiet worship service that includes the Lord’s Supper.  All are invited to join us.  Even if you approach Advent and Christmas with no sadness or heaviness you may appreciate a quiet evening of worship.

Genesis 1:3 says, “Then God said, ‘Let there be light;’ and there was light.”  These words draw us into the creation story.

‘Let there be light’ is also a good way to enter into Advent. The season of Advent is an opportunity for us to prepare for Christ’s birth and return.  On the first Sunday of Advent we light one candle.  It is a small representation of the hope that we have in a dark world.

Each week we light one more candle, and the light grows. Then on Christmas Eve we light the four Advent candles and the Christ candle, a visible symbol of the promise we have in Jesus. He is the light of the world, the light no darkness can overcome.

Join us each week in worship during Advent as we explore together this theme, “Let there be light,” and look at stories from the prophets and the gospels to help us prepare for Christmas.

Love and Logic Parenting prepares children for the real world using models and teaching the Four Steps to Responsibility. In the upcoming workshops we focus on Teens/Tots & Technology and some techniques to use to keep kids safe with screens.

As parents we sometimes run out of answers and out of breath trying to communicate with our kids.This way of talking to children gives you specific answers and actions for some the difficult moments in child-rearing. These simple techniques are effective with all children, from toddler to teens. It will change your life and the lives of your children.

Plan to meet with us November 12, 19, 26 and December 3 in Room 103 from 10 am-10:45 am.

Jennifer Snook and Cindy Dethloff teach this class. Questions? Contact Jennifer, 684-5215.