Dear Friends,
In my almost 20 years of being ordained I have never had to call for backup on a Sunday morning! When I knew Saturday mid-day that I would not be able to make it to preach on Sunday morning, I thought about all of our amazing ordained people in the congregation. We are so gifted! Thank you to Vince Mok who responded so willingly to the call for help. What a comfort it was to me to know I was leaving you all in good hands while I missed you!
As we prepare to give thanks tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for all of you and for this time in which we walk together on the interim path. You are a deeply compassionate and caring congregation. I invite you to take some time to reflect over this weekend on the past year in your life and in Montclair’s life. For what or whom are you thankful? Where have you seen God at work in you or in others?
This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent and we begin Advent with the theme of Preparation. The text is from Matthew 24 and is about waiting and watching and being ready. Advent is a time for us to prepare our hearts again for Jesus to break in to the world and in to our lives. Advent is always a bit chaotic and this year will be the same! We are looking for where the hope is in the midst of the chaos.
On Wednesdays during Advent, I will offer a group experience on “Turning the Holiday Blues into Rainbows.” I know it’s a totally hokie title, but if you come to the group you’ll get to hear the explanation! We will meet Wednesdays from 1:00 to 2:00 pm in the Thornhill Room. If you are someone who has had personal experience with loss that impacts how you experience the holidays, this may be just the group for you. Even if your loss was many years ago, if it was someone with whom you were very close the loss may still feel fresh. Join us on Wednesdays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22 if you want support or want to give support during this time. Beth