Offering for Syrian Refugees: We are all moved by the images from Aleppo and the ongoing crisis created by this brutal war.  The Global Ministries of the United Church of Christ is working to assist refugees in the region.  During Christmas we remember a refugee family from the Middle East--Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.  This year our Christmas Eve offering will support the work of Global Ministries with Syrian Refugees.

Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross: Our joy at Christmas is a response to God's promise of new life through the birth of Jesus. It is a joy we are called to share widely, through our witness and gifts, both to loved ones and to distant neighbors. This annual United Church of Christ offering supports low-income retired ministers and missionaries and supplements church workers experiencing financial crises.  Please use the envelopes in the pews for this offering.

From Elizabeth Wearin & Nancy Schalles: "The Advent Craft Workshop was 'such a happy gathering for Christmas.' Thanks to all!"

From Michael Cich-Jones: "Scott and I appreciate your thoughts and prayers at the sudden death of our mother and Sebastian's Lola, Ninfa Marabe Cich.  Our First Central Family has brought us great comfort during a difficult time.  In the strange fellowship of loss, there's also remembrance and celebration.  Memorial gifts to Planned Parenthood and our church (which we've designated to the community garden) do exactly that --  celebrate the progressive spirit of a hardworking family matriarch.

CEO's invite you to join them for dinner at Wheatfield’s, 1224 S. 103 rd St., December 23rd @ 6p.m. Please RSVP to Carol Vogt by December 21st.

Ready for a break from life’s hustle and bustle? You’re invited to the 2017 Women’s Retreat, held January 27-29. There is no formal program – just your church friends watching movies, playing games, hiking, visiting, and drinking a little wine. You can read more HERE. Interested? Please RSVP to Sara by January 6th.

To all who helped make this year’s Christmas Pageant a reality! Kids, parents, teachers… we couldn’t have done it without you. So THANK YOU!

Planning has begun for FIRSTYouth 2017! Potential activities include: painting the youth room, visiting some other churches and religious traditions, and lots and lots of fun! If you have any ideas or opportunities for the youth to help out on or participate in, please contact Katie!

As Scott has been speaking about in the sermons on Sunday during Advent, there are so many memories around this time of year and hopes for what is ahead. If you get a chance over the holidays, take a moment, collect and write down some of your Christmas memories and hopes for the future and share them with your family and friends. It may stir their memories and can be fun for all. Next First Central Writers Group meeting will be some time in January. Email Nicole Le Clerc to sign up! We may be writing about our dreams for the New Year.

The Open and Affirming Coalition has shared the results of the US Transgender Survey and the State Equality Index.

Four things you can do to help the people of Aleppo.

Watch the Christmas message from the officers of the United Church of Christ.