FELC UPDATE – DECEMBER 13
Written on December 13, 2011 at 2:27 pm | Comments Off
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ADVENT CONTEMPLATIVE SIT
November 30–December 21
Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. & 7:00 p.m., In the Transept Chapel
During Advent we have an opportunity to come together in contemplative prayer.
The Advent Contemplative Sit is a simple service using Scripture, silence, and
poetry to help guide us in our journey through the season. It is offered twice
on each Wednesday, with the same theme at both services. The service lasts 30
minutes. Come and join us for this helpful spiritual discipline of stillness
and contemplation.
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POINSETTIAS FOR THE SANCTUARY
We encourage you to place your order for a poinsettia to add seasonal color to the Sanctuary during Christmas services. You may call the church office (478-1933) or e-mail (office@felcaustin.org). We will complete a form for you and place it on hold for your payment. Poinsettias cost $15.00 this year. We are extending the deadline for your order through next Monday, December 19.
All proceeds benefit Down Home Ranch in Elgin for the mentally handicapped
www.downhomeranch.org
Thank you for your support.
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CHRISTMAS CAROLING TO HOMEBOUND MEMBERS &
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT THE COFFEYS
Saturday, December 17
It’s time for Christmas caroling again. It’s a joyful way to go and visit our members who can’t get out very much, and bring them our love and the happiness of song. We’ll gather at the church at 2:30 p.m. to warm up, and head out by 3:00 p.m. We’ll wind up the caroling in southwest Austin and head to the Coffeys’ house for their Christmas Open House from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Hot cider, treats, and a light supper will be served. Come to the Open House whether you are caroling or not. Pastor Mike and Kathryn would appreciate your letting them know that you plan to attend. E-mail Pastor Mike at pastor@felcaustin.org, or call the church office.
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CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP
5:30 Family Service and 11:00 Eucharist
10:30 Prelude Music for Choir and Organ
Join us for a beautiful Christmas Eve of music, Scripture, candlelight, and quiet contemplation of the coming of God in Christ at Christmas. The 5:30 service includes the children of the church presenting the Christmas story as told in Luke’s Gospel. The 11:00 liturgy includes the choir and celebration of the incarnation of God in Christ with Eucharist.
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HOLIDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Sunday, December 25 – NO WORSHIP
Christmas falls on a Sunday this year. We will not have worship services that day.
Sunday, January 1
ONE SERVICE at 11:00 a.m. – Lessons and Carols
New Year’s Day Brunch afterwards
New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday. We will have one service at 11:00, allowing all the New Year’s Eve late night party goers a chance to sleep in a little. Following the service, we’ll have a New Year’s Day brunch in the Fellowship Hall. Come and celebrate the New Year together at First English!
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FREEZE NIGHT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Each winter, the Congregational Church of Austin operates a freeze night shelter for street youth in the University Area. On Thursday nights, during the cold weather season, First English volunteers are on stand-by to prepare, serve & clean-up a meal at the shelter from about 6:00 – 8:15 pm. If you’re interested in signing up for a Thursday night this winter or would like more information, please contact Gretchen Olson at 496.8549 or gretchenrolson@yahoo.com. You would be notified by 10 am on on your scheduled Thursday, or more often by the day before, if a freeze night has been declared and your help is needed that day. Thanks for considering helping in this way!