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Blue Christmas
“Comfort, comfort my people,” says God. There are moments in all of our lives when we need comfort. There are tough times when we yearn for consolation. In ancient times, suffering people who looked for the long-awaited Messiah found a hope-filled image of God in the writings of Isaiah. The prophet expressed certainty that no matter what happens to us, God will be there to comfort and support us.
For many, Christmas is a time when we particularly need that reassurance and comfort. Perhaps we are grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with illness, or coping with the loss of a job. Some may wonder how we will get through the holidays.
Our “Blue Christmas” service on Sunday evening, December 7, will be a time of quiet reflection, meaningful words and beautiful music bathed in the good news of “God with us: Immanuel!”
You don’t have to be grieving to appreciate this brief respite from the frenzied activities of the “holiday season.” Your pastors and Worship Team hope to provide a “sacred moment” to reflect on the goodness of God. All who seek the Lord are invited to come and share a time of peace and comfort.
Loving our Church
At this time of year, our mailboxes and electronic in-boxes are filled with requests for contributions, and this week one of those appeals is from Media Presbyterian Church. As Elder Chad Sanford has reminded us the past few Sunday mornings, it’s time to consider how we’ll support our church in 2015.
MPC’s stewardship letter may seem like all the other year-end pleas, but I’d like to point out a very significant difference. Most of the letters in your mailbox were sent by charities that do great work. They feed the hungry, save endangered wildlife, support research to find a cure for cancer, rescue starving children… all worthy of your generosity. Their good work appeals to thousands or even millions of potential donors. But MPC’s good work depends entirely on you — our members and friends.
I’m not asking you to ignore the other letters in your mailbox. I’m simply suggesting that Chad’s stewardship letter deserves a place at the top of the pile. Looking forward to seeing you next Wednesday at our Thanksgiving Eve Soup Supper and worship, and wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving holiday!
In Christian love and faithfulness,
Stu
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Honor MPC Staff This Christmas
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ADVENT PARTY THIS SUNDAY!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
3-5pm, Dale Hall
Come join the fun... crafts for all ages (make extras to share with our mission recipients)... cookie exchange** ...sanctuary decorating... refreshments... followed by a church-family sing-a-long with Makin’ Music!
**Sign up in the kitchen if you would like to participate in the cookie exchange. Bring 8 dozen of your favorite homemade treats and the recipe, too!
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THANKSGIVING EVE
SOUP SUPPER & WORSHIP SERVICE!
Wednesday, November 26
Supper is at 6:00 p.m. in Dale Hall, followed by a worship service.
Sign up in the kitchen.
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ADVENT CORNUCOPIA POTLUCK!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30 in DALE HALL
after the 10 a.m. combined worship service.
Bring your chocolate pies, your ambrosia, those macaroni casseroles, as we celebrate Advent – the coming of the Christ child – in the most common way Jesus did ministry – at the table! Make plans now to attend and please bring a dish. If your last name begins with: A-H: Main Dish; I-N: Side Dish; O-Z: Dessert
(Hosted by the Worship and Music committee)
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 Help adorn our sanctuary during Christmas eve by purchasing a poinsettia! Then, take it home after the 9:30 pm service, or leave it at church to be delivered to the sick or homebound.
Click here for the order form. Please return it to church no later by December 7.
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2014 Angel Tree
 The Angel Tree is a popular Christmas tradition organized by the Deacons to support children in need in our community. This year we will once again be supporting the Second Time Around Parents (STAP) and the Rose Tree Media School District.
Angels can be found on the Angel Tree located at the front of the Sanctuary on November 30 and December 7. Each Angel lists the Christmas wish of a grandparent, grandchild, or a child in our community. MPC members and friends can take an Angel from the tree, shop for the gift, then attach the Angel to the gift and return the gift to the tree.
All Angels and gifts will need to be returned to the Angel Tree no later than Sunday, December 14. The grandchildren will receive their gifts as families gather in Dale Hall for the STAP Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 17.
Many thanks to the MPC church family for their overwhelming support of this wonderful tradition. We appreciate your generosity and desire to make children happy during this miraculous season. It is a wonderful way to show our love and compassion. Last year, we were able to fulfill over 200 gift wishes for local families. Thank you for sharing and caring!
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MPC Alternative Gift Program
HOPE ~ PEACE ~ JOY ~ LOVE
Looking to simplify Christmas shopping, avoid the crowds at the mall, or find thoughtful gift ideas for those who don’t want any more stuff? Our Alternative Gift Program allows you to purchase meaningful gifts by making small or larger donations to some of the vital mission organizations we support.
Cards will be on sale in Hassler Chapel between services
beginning Sunday, November 30.
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” Matthew 25:35
Liberia ~India ~ Mexico~ Media
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Are you someone who seeks to learn more about God, Jesus Christ, and the Christian faith? Join us for our autumn course, "Journey through The Bible."
Click the logo for more information.
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 From Sanctuary of the Soul by Richard Foster:
“Throughout our seeking and struggling, we are continually doing three things.
1) We are asking, always asking. ‘Change my heart, O God; make it every true. Change my heart, O God. May I be like you.’ Asking, always asking.
2) We are listening, always listening. Like Elijah, we wait through the earthquake, wind, and fire for the still small Voice. Listening, always listening.
3) We are obeying, always obeying. We seek to obey Christ in all things. We seek to obey the Spirit at all times. We seek to obey the Scriptures in all ways. Obeying, always obeying."
Click here to learn more about our prayer room and prayer team.
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Session Highlights for November 2014
- Video was viewed showing the Presbyterian Foundation’s work in the Middle East.
- MPC’s financial status was discussed at length.
- A revised Alcohol and Drug Policy was submitted for a first read in anticipation of approval at the December Session meeting.
- Session approved the renewal of Reverend Stu Ritter’s contract.
- The following policies were approved: Staff Christmas Gifts, Baptism, Resolving Conflicts/Guidelines for Presbyterians During Times of Disagreement, Responsible Use, Technology.
- Six members were moved to the inactive roll.
Click here to read the complete session minutes for November 2014.
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 Media Presbyterian is offering a Grief Support Group, hosted by Barbara Sorin, a certified chaplain with the Episcopal church. Barbara comes to the table with over 15 years of experience as a hospital and hospice chaplain, having led a variety of support groups and provided pastoral counseling to many individuals. Our first session has been formed and is currently meeting.
If you would like more information regarding our upcoming sessions, please contact Rev. Nikki Passante.
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GOOD NEWS! Our sanctuary roof is getting replaced!
WAIT...WAIT... IMPORTANT UPDATE:
WE NOW HAVE A NEW SANCTUARY ROOF!
and it only took TWO WEEKS!
Take a peek! It's a beautiful thing!
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Joseph's People Central Delco (formerly GetWorks) is a program of Media Presbyterian Church that provides information, guidance and emotional support to job seekers and those who want to change careers, without regard to religious affiliation. Click the logo for upcoming meetings.
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