Pastor's Weekly Email

Dear Friends,

What a wonderful "day" of worship. It began with worship and worship we did. It seemed God was moving in and around us all morning as we sang, as we prayed, during our children's time just all throughout worship. Immediately after worship, Sydney Clark (6th grader at St. Marks) played guitar during Patio Time. Some of us were in the foyer of Eden Hall to honor long time member Dale Lee. Dale served this church with honor and love, and we placed a picture of him on the wall that has become the wall of faith! That afternoon about 100 of us met at church to go Christmas caroling. As we golf carted or walked to the Everglades House, we sang carols. When we arrived, they blew the horn to alert the residents, and many came out to their balconies to join in the fun. A huge thank you to Vince Connor for leading our singing. More thank you's to Kathy and Bill Tergerson for walking and escorting us in the Everglades House, Brenda and John Adair and John and Joanne Jurgle for organizing our food and bartending, all the chili makers, Judy Jagusztyn and Marie Reny for getting our house in order, and to all of you that were able to participate. It was an amazing evening. Even Santa showed up in a late 1960's(ish) Cadillac. It was completely decked out with lights and Santa sang to us from the street! See my Facebook page for a video of the evening and Santa.

Have a blessed rest of the week and I look forward to seeing you all Christmas Eve at either the 5pm or 10pm service.

A word from Brian:
In the midst of all the gift-giving, family time, caroling, and decorations, I trust you are finding time to reflect on the many blessings God has poured out this past year. His grace is sufficient, and His love is unconditional and overwhelming! Christmas reminds us in a unique and powerful way that God has saved us and will always be with us! Personally, I am so thankful to be a part of the Church by the Sea and to come alongside Chris as the Discipleship Pastor. I look forward to leading discipleship opportunities in months ahead and growing in faith as we walk life together. Blessings!