Paxton Methodist Weekly News, Dec. 25

Merry Christmas!

December 26, 2022 - Grace and peace from our brother Jesus, Amen. We at Paxton Methodist hope everyone has a joyful Christmas holiday. We don’t have a “white Christmas” but it’s sure a cold one! Most people on the Joaquin water system as well as other water systems that depend on the Joaquin system are without water. So many people are not only without water but also electricity. It is suppose to get above freezing again so maybe the hard-working crews can get things going again.

Paxton Methodists chose to worship on Christmas Eve and not on Christmas morning. We had a good crowd, at least by Paxton standards, and the congregation included our daughter Megan. Our Gathering Hymn was “O Come All Ye Faithful,” which we sang instead of just listening. Sue led us in our Gathering Words based On Isaiah 9: 2 & 6: The prophet speaks of light coming to dispel the darkness and a child who would lead. Sue also led us in our Affirmation and Apostles’ Creed and then shared some Advent Moments. The Gospel lesson was Matthew 1: 18-25.

The next hymn was “Joy to the World,” followed by “Silent Night,” two Christmas favorites. Our bulletin quote was brief but meaningful, from Alexander Smith a Scottish poet: “Christmas is the day that holds all time together.” This statement was below a silhouetted Nativity scene set against a photo of the Eye of God nebula. My sermon was titled “Going Home,” about the importance of family and home always—but especially at Christmas.

During December Paxton Methodist has been collecting cans and boxes of soup for Community Christian Services. I plan to take the soup and a couple of checks to CCS this week. Traditionally, Paxton Methodist collects cans of tuna in January. All of us want to wish Fred a happy 92nd birthday! Fred was born on Christmas Day, although the doctor recorded 12/26.

In speaking to the folks who are organizing the Eastern District of the Global Methodist Church, I found they will have a minister coming to Paxton on Sunday, January 8th. My last Sunday then will be New Year’s Day. It has been a true joy being the pastor at Paxton. I am going to miss seeing everyone each Sunday. If you are looking for a church with kind, compassionate, caring people, Paxton Methodist would be a great choice. You will be welcomed with open arms.

Whoever you are, in whatever faith you were born, whatever creed you profess; if you come to this house to find God you are welcome here. Paxton Methodist Church is an inviting church that takes to heart the idea of “Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds.” Worship begins at 10:00. Our email address is paxtonumc@yahoo.com. If you would like the weekly email newsletter about Paxton Methodist, you can send your email address to the Paxton email address, and I will add you to the list. God’s Speed.