This past Sunday, the second Sunday of Advent, was filled with the sounds of music. Christmas Alleluia, shared by the Praise Band is always a Union favorite and watching each of you as you listened to the words of this beautiful song was such a blessing. Then, on Sunday night we had the privilege of hearing a lovely Christmas piano concert, given by three of our own – Gina McKinney, Patsy Orr, and Sharon Tatum. I am so grateful for the many hours of practice that these women put in to bring us such a special Advent gift.
This Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, we will again have the opportunity of experiencing special Christmas music, as we are led by our extraordinary choir. I know you are as grateful as I am for the leadership of JR Beckwith and the commitment of the choir members to lead us in worship every Sunday. I hope you are making plans to attend.
Each Sunday of Advent, in addition to the beautiful music we share, we light a candle - candles of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. May this poem by Howard Thurman encourage each of you to light your own candle this Advent season.
I will light Candles this Christmas,
Candles of joy despite all the sadness,
Candles of hope where despair keeps watch,
Candles of courage for fears ever present,
Candles of peace for tempest-tossed days,
Candles of grace to ease heavy burdens,
Candles of love to inspire all my living,
Candles that will burn all year long.
Pastor Jane