#fridayfeels

Dear friends and members of St. Matt’s,

As we start to near Thanksgiving week, I can feel myself begin to lean in toward Christmas. Now, I know we’re not there yet. And we’re not supposed to do that yet. But as our preparations at the parish begin – see the note about the pageant below! – I can already feel some of the excitement. And to me it feels a little bit like fresh air. Like so many of you have shared, I am feeling a deep concern and sadness for the world around us, especially for all the violence in the Middle East. As we near the official beginning of this “holiday season”, it seems to me that the world could desperately use that heartfelt wish for peace on earth, for hope, joy, and love that overcomes all things.

At St. Matt’s, we’re going to spend this season ahead looking for and holding on to joy. We’ll gather the sparks – the light of our faith – the hope we share in Christ. And together, our light will brighten the world around us through pancakes, pageants, field trips, sing-a-longs, and of course through the sacraments. Come and join us in this season. If you haven’t been here for a while, come back and remember the good news in the story of Advent and Christmas. Wait for Jesus with us. As we all wait, hope, and work for peace on earth.

There are a great many new opportunities coming your way in the season ahead. A few of them are in this edition of the e-news. So, take a good look and join us for the fun!

Hold on today – on this Friday – hold on to God’s love for you and on the blessings God has given you today. Come and join us on Sunday. God loves you. And so do I.

Faithfully,

–Marissa +