Messenger | December 4, 2024

 This week's release at a glance:

• Pastor’s Message
• Caroling, Cocoa, & Community
• The Meaning of a Blue Christmas
• Remember a Loved One this Holiday Season
• Christmas Eve Greeters Needed
• Woods Church Crosses for Sale
• This Year's Holiday Bazaar was FANTASTIC!
• Savvy Seniors & Those Who Love Them
• Winter Relief is Coming
• Let’s Raise Some Dough
• Prayers for the Family of Bob Burns

Pastor's Message

Advent has become an increasingly unusual season in the Christian church because it stands in significant contrast to the way in which the general culture prepares for Christmas. In terms of our theology and worship, Advent is not simply intended to be a “tailgate party” for Christmas, gathering together to wait for the big game with increasing amounts of fun and festivity. Rather, Advent is intended to be a time of anticipation and active preparation for the coming of Christ, recognizing that the world is not how God intends it to be, and claiming the hope that, in Jesus Christ, God has established the reign of God on Earth and will bring it to full fruition at the end of time.

That’s also why this third week of Advent is unusual even within the season of Advent. You’ve probably noticed that one of the candles on the Advent wreath is pink, not blue; that is the candle we will light this week, the third week of Advent, which has the theme of Joy. Advent as a season has a sense of prayerful preparation and “active waiting.” But Advent at one time was a season of penance similar to Lent, and in the midst of that the ecumenical church realized that joy is an essential part of anticipating the coming of Christ, but it was being obscured by the somberness of the Advent season. So they established Gaudete Sunday as the third Sunday of Advent. “Gaudete” is Latin for “Rejoice,” and it was chosen as the theme of the third Sunday of Advent to emphasize that Christians can and do rejoice as the coming of Christ draws near.

There is another unusual but very important occurrence during this third week of Advent, as well. On Tuesday, December 17, 6PM, we will hold a Blue Christmas service. It takes its name and theme from the fact that Christmas can be especially difficult for people who are experiencing a significant loss in their life: the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; the demise of a relationship; the letting go of a dream. All the pressure in the general culture to be “full of Christmas cheer,” and even the church’s emphasis on rejoicing at this point in Advent, can be isolating and even oppressive at times. So the Blue Christmas Service provides a space to both acknowledge the losses with which we are struggling and receive a word of hope.” So, if you or someone you know is struggling with loss, I hope that the Blue Christmas Service will be of help in this season of Advent and as Christmas approaches.

Scripture tells us that we should “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). In the third week of Advent, we shall do both together as congregation! And let us all continue to pray for the coming of Christ as we claim God’s blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love in this season of Advent.

Peace,

—Pastor J.C.

Church News

Caroling, Cocoa, & Community

Join the Deacons, Music, and Small Groups ministries for an afternoon of singing and fellowship on Sunday, December 15, 3:30PM. We will meet at the church for carols, cocoa, and hot cider. Later, groups will walk to Sunrise to sing for the residents there, and others will caravan to BrightView and several local houses to serenade our most senior and homebound members.

All ages are welcome! Invite your neighbors! Carrying a tune is not necessary—only the desire to make a joyful noise.

In case of inclement weather, Fellowship Hall will be ready with warm beverages for warm hearts. Please sign up online to ensure we have treats and song sheets for all. Contact Sarah Wilson with questions.

The Meaning of a Blue Christmas: Honoring Loneliness, Loss, and the Gift of Accompaniment

While Christmas is often seen as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, for many, it can be a season marked by sadness and reflection. A “Blue Christmas” acknowledges this reality, offering space for those grappling with loneliness, loss, or painful memories to process and find meaning amidst the season.

For some, the absence of a loved one—a parent, partner, child, or friend—casts a long shadow over the festivities. Others may feel isolated, struggling with mental health, financial hardships, or strained relationships. The stark contrast between their inner turmoil and the world’s outward cheer can deepen feelings of alienation.

Blue Christmas services or observances have become a meaningful way for communities to acknowledge this pain, offering quiet reflection, hope, and a safe space to grieve. These moments are not just about personal healing; they also emphasize the importance of accompaniment—walking alongside others in their sorrow.

Accompaniment during a Blue Christmas means being present for those who are hurting, not to fix their pain but to journey with them through it. This act of solidarity—whether through listening, offering a gentle presence, or simply acknowledging someone’s struggles—can be a profound source of comfort and connection.

Moreover, preparing the way for others in their healing can be an integral part of the season’s meaning. By creating spaces where people feel safe to express their grief, offering practical support, or simply reminding someone they are not forgotten, we embody the spirit of love and compassion that Christmas represents.

If you are experiencing a Blue Christmas, know that it’s okay to let this season be one of reflection and care for yourself. Seek the companionship of those who understand and trust that even in moments of deep sorrow, the light of hope can begin to shine.

For those who know someone struggling, your willingness to walk with them can be a gift beyond measure. The heart of Christmas lies not in perfection but in presence, love, and the quiet work of preparing the way for others to find peace.

Office Hours During Christmas Week

Our office hours will be modified during Christmas week. See our schedule below. Pastors are available for Pastoral Care needs any time the office is closed by utilizing the after hours on-call voicemail at 410.647.2550.

• Monday, December 23 | 9AM–5PM (normal)
• Tuesday, December 24 | 9AM–2
• Wednesday, December 25 | Closed
• Thursday, December 26 | Closed
• Friday, December 27 | 9AM–5PM (normal)



Christmas Eve Greeters Needed

Advent is such a special time here at Woods Church! We are looking for some volunteers to help greet and make it even more welcoming.

Please email Nancy Nolan at msmum@sent.com if you are interested in greeting for one of our Christmas Eve Services.

Christmas Eve Nourishment for Staff and Volunteers

If you love to cook, bake, and feed others during the holidays, here is your volunteer opportunity! The staff and volunteers of Woods work many hours on Christmas Eve covering all the services from 3PM to 10PM with very little time in between to leave or fix a meal. Donations of food, drinks and perhaps a cookie or two will be graciously accepted and displayed buffet style in the church conference room for joyful gathering and time of replenishment.

Sign up online.

Dedicate a Poinsettia for Christmas

Poinsettia in Honor or Memory of a Loved One. Every year, we decorate our Sanctuary with lovely poinsettias at Christmas. The flowers are donated by members and friends to remember special people in their lives. If you would like to give a poinsettia in memory or in honor of a loved one, the suggested donation is $25.

Dedications can be made online or in Fellowship Hall, and will be accepted until December 15. If you would like to take home a plant after Christmas, you may pick one up on December 29. Consider sharing the beauty of flowers this holiday season!

Visit the Columbarium of Your Loved One

Columbariums can be opened by calling the church ahead of time, or by stopping in during office hours. All columbarium’s will be open for our Blue Christmas service on Tuesday, December 17, 7–8PM.

You also can honor the memory of your loved one by visiting their columbarium from the comfort of your home. You can reflect, remember, and feel connected to their legacy. Our virtual Columbarium offers a serene space to pay tribute, leave a message, or spend a moment in remembrance.

Light a Virtual Candle to Honor Someone Special
this Holiday Season

This holiday season, take a moment to honor someone by lighting a virtual candle on our website. Whether it’s for a loved one, a cherished memory, or a meaningful cause, your gesture can illuminate their importance in your life.

Lighting a virtual candle is simple yet profound, creating a space for reflection and gratitude during this special time of year. Visit our website to light a candle and share the warmth of remembrance and celebration with others. Let your light shine brightly this holiday season!



Woods Church Crosses for Sale

Both small and large, gold and silver Woods Church crosses will be available for sale in the Fellowship Hall between services (10:30–11AM) on Sunday, December 15. You also may come to the church office Monday–Friday, 9AM–4PM, to make a purchase. These crosses are replicas of the forged iron cross hanging in our Sanctuary.



Questions? Contact Liz Pringle at 410.647.8914.

Purchase an “Alternative Gift” this Holiday Season

Make your holiday gifts more meaningful! Check out how you can support our Mission Partners and those in need. Visit our Alternative Gifts table in Fellowship Hall on the Sundays in Advent or browse our online catalog.

This year’s mission partners are:

• Cecilia McKay Good Neighbor Fund
• Langton Green Community Farm
• Ministry of Hope - Malawi
• PDA Hurricanes Helene and Milton
  

This Year's Holiday Bazaar was FANTASTIC!

Our biggest thanks go to Pam Blumenthal, Beth Hadley, and their army of volunteers for the monumental lift that is our Annual Holiday Bazaar!

Each November, greater Severna Park descends upon our campus to buy goods at much-discounted rates. From books, to china, to apparel—one can find it all! All proceeds go to support the ongoing and ever-necessary work of the Missions Ministry. And this year's proceeds topped $18,000!

Hats off Pam, Beth, and all volunteers!

Education & Small Groups

Savvy Seniors & Those Who Love Them

Come join us on Tuesday, December 17, 1–2:30PM, for a hands-on workshop with Karin DuPont, creator of Art for the Heart. Seniors and guests are welcome to participate in this meaningful and fun experience.

Art for the Heart is a fun and creative way for seniors (and those of any age) to express themselves, combining storytelling with art to unlock emotional and mental benefits. It’s a great way to capture memories, reflect on life experiences, and get in touch with one’s feelings. Art for the Heart can help keep the mind sharp by encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving while offering a calming, mindful break from daily stress. It is an excellent tool for managing emotions like anxiety or loneliness, giving seniors a space to work through their thoughts. Whether recalling past stories or reflecting on the present, Art for the Heart can be a rewarding, empowering activity that promotes emotional well-being and self-expression.

Contact Sarah Wilson at swilson@woodschurch.org for information.

Children's News

We're All Ears

On Sunday, December 15, we will be all ears...that is donkey ears, cow ears, sheep ears. The children from Sunday School and the Child Development Center will have the opportunity to dress up as an animal. During the children’s moment, they will join Ms. Kat and Pastor J.C. to sing “The Friendly Beasts” about what the animals did to prepare the stable for the baby Jesus. Your child may dress up however they wish, or ears will be available at worship.

After the children’s moment, the children will have a celebration! It’s a Baby Jesus Baby Shower, complete with gender reveal. Don’t tell me. I don’t want to spoil the surprise! We will decorate cookies, sing Christmas Carols, and celebrate that Jesus is coming to be God Among Us (Emmanuel).

Christmas Eve Children’s Pageants

Calling all shepherds and angels! Sign up to be a part of our Christmas Eve Children’s Pageants by contacting Kat Green at kgreen@woodschurch.org or Laurel Raymond at lraymond@woodschurch.org. Help us tell the story of the first Christmas!

Continue the Conversation at Home

Let's Continue the Conversation at Home from Sunday. It was PEACE Sunday in Advent! We talked about how "Shalom" is "Peace" bigger and fuller than just not arguing. It is remembering that we are connected even when we argue. We heard my book, "Shalom, World."

Being connected no matter what is good news! Speaking of good news! Our friend, Glenys Nellist has a "new to me" book called "Good News!" It's Christmas!" Mary, Joseph, the animals, the angels, and the wise men remind us of the "good" in the "Good News."



Save the Date for VBS!

Vacation Bible Study for all ages—smalls, talls, and all—will be held July 14–17, 4–7PM, with dinner at 6:30PM. More information coming in January!

Mission News

Winter Relief is Coming to Woods in January!

Winter Relief is coming January 20–27. Signups start Sunday, December 15, 9AM. You will be able to sign up to help after each Service in Fellowship Hall or online in SignUpGenius on the Church website. Signups will continue live until we start.

There are opportunities for meal prep, brown bag lunch prep, evening and overnight chaperones, drivers, shower escorts, Stephens Ministers, laundry support, youth volunteers, and snack donations. Please help us help the homeless. If you want more information about Winter Relief and how you can help, contact Scott Wiley at 410.353.1491 or wilecoy2us@gmail.com. Thank you for helping with this important mission.

Winter Relief Supplies Needed

The Winter Relief Shelter at Woods needs various supplies. Please donate new travel size toiletries: deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes. (We do not need soap, conditioner, or combs or brushes.) The shelter also is in need of new men’s and women’s underwear including panties, undershirts and underpants of all sizes. (We do not need socks or men’s large underpants at this time.)

The items can be dropped off at the church office marked “Scott Wiley/Winter Relief.”



Trip to Greece to Walk in the Steps of Paul

We invite all interested parties to commit to joining us on an eight-day pilgrimage to Greece in late October 2025 to visit the places where St. Paul sought to spread Christianity in the first century AD. The deadline for committing to our pilgrimage is December 31—an extension from the original December 1 deadline. Click here for the itinerary details, reservation amounts, and where to mail your reservation checks.

Contact Elder Bill Hadley with any questions.



Information Session for Malawi Summer 2025 Mission Trip

Join us on Sunday, January 12, 10:30AM, in Founders Room to learn about mission trip details, ask questions, and meet the team leaders. Over the past several years, dozens of Woods members have traveled to Africa to learn from and support our mission partner, Ministry of Hope. We would love to have you join us! Trip dates are still being formulated, and we welcome your input.

For more information, please contact Pat Johnson at paj10041949@gmail.com or Karen Bennett at MDKBennett@gmail.com.

In Our Community

Let’s Raise Some Dough

Grab a slice! On Thursday, December 12, 4–9PM, part of the proceeds collected at Squisito's Pizza in the Magothy Gateway shops (147 Ritchie Hwy E, next to Harris Teeter) will support our Music Ministry! Please mention the “Wood Church Music Fundraiser” when placing your order.

Church Family News

Prayers for the Family of Bob Burns

It is with sadness that we share the death of former Woods member, Bob Burns. Bob and his wife, Mary, were members of Woods for many years prior to moving out of state. He served as an Elder and a Stephen Minister.

Please keep Mary, and all of their family and friends in your prayers.

A Moment of Prayer

Gracious God, it is with much gratitude and a sense of hope that we come to tables of Thanksgiving this week. Whether we have abundance or simplicity we count ourselves blessed for we are all part of your Kingdom here on earth. Grant us glad and thankful hearts and the ability to accompany others wherever they may be as we begin the journey to Bethlehem.

Amen.