Spirit of Abilene new contribution

Spirit of Abilene is an online faith forum for all Abilenians. Contributions are invited. They may be a meditation, a reflection, a spiritual take something in the news, or an announcement about something of interest to the community. Email submissions, plus a photo of yourself, to editor@spiritofabilene.com
Loretta Fulton, editor

Sunday marked the first of four Sundays in Advent, leading to Christmas.Two contributors, Bishop Michael Sis of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo and Janice Six, associate pastor of First Central Presbyterian Church, offer reflections on this time of quiet reflection.

Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, started at sundown Sunday and lasts through Dec. 10. Cantor Monica J. O'Desky, who leads Abilene's Temple Mizpah, will preside over a dinner and service on Dec. 7. Read more about her recollections of Hanukkah.

Wylie Baptist Church will present its annual tradition, The Living Christmas Tree, Thursday, Dec. 6, through Sunday, Dec. 9. The presentation features church members singing from platforms built into the tiers of the tree, live music, drama, and unique sets. Tickets are free but required. They can be reserved or picked up at the church, 6097 Buffalo Gap Road, or by calling 692-3206. Read more

Abilene’s first female physician, 1933 Hardin-Simmons University graduate, and member of First Baptist Church since 1930, Dr. Virginia Connally, turns 106 today. She was born in Temple Dec. 4, 1912. After graduating from "Simmons University" in June 1933. she enrolled in the LSU School of Medicine. She returned to Abilene to open a practice in the Mims Building in September 1940. Read more

"The Story," the one that Christians read every Christmas Eve, story is a familiar one, but Danny Minton asks, "What's Your Story?" Personal stories are important and should be recorded "Keep your story alive, encouraging those who follow. Let your story be a witness to what God can do in our lives." Read more

Jolly Ol' St. Nick is a familiar figure to kids the world over. But to Orthodox Christians, the man behind the legend, St. Nicholas of Myra, is a man to be revered. Members of Abilene's St. Luke Orthodox Church will celebrate the eve of his feast day at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Guests are welcomed. Read more

The latest addtion to Houses for Healing, sponsored by Sonrise Ministries, was dedicated Sunday, Dec. 1. The tiny houses, located on north Hickory Street, are for people from area communities to stay in while undergoing medical treatment in Abilene. Read more

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