DECEMBER 2025
As I was sitting and trying to be inspired and share some encouraging words about the Advent and Christmas seasons, I fear I came up short. And so, I turned to my go to -- the internet and found a message from Billy Graham that spoke to me. I hope it speaks to you.
"In the midst of all the upheaval, crisis, difficulty, problems and fear comes the true message of Christmas with all of its hope, goodwill, and cheer. The message of Christmas has been terribly misapplied and misunderstood for many years. Some think of business profits, shopping, gifts, tinsel, toys and celebration. Others think only of Bethlehem, of the star in the sky, shepherds in the field, and angels singing. Still others cynically ask, "Where is the Prince of Peace in a world filled with so much trouble?"
The real Christmas message goes far deeper. It heralds the entrance of God into human history. It is Heaven descending to Earth. It as though a trumpeter had taken his stand upon the turrets of time and announced to a despairing, hopeless, and frustrated world the coming of the Prince of Peace. It answers all the great questions that plague the human race at this hour. The Christmas message is relevant, revolutionary, and reassuring to us today. I believe it can be summed up in three words: a cradle, a cross, and a crown.
On that first Chrstmas night, the Bible tells us about the angel coming to those fearful shepherds and saying, "Fear not, I bring you good news" (Luke 2). This is the true meaning of Christmas -- the Good News -- that God sent His only Son to Earth. to save people from their sins. Christmas is not a myth, not a tradition, not a dream -- it is glorious reality."
Billy Graham
I pray that you and your families have a "Blessed Christmas" and take time to experience the real meaning of Christmas with your St. Mark's family at one or all of the services.
ADVENT SERVICES
November 30
December 7
December 14
December 21 (Family Sunday)
Special Presentation "Double Take"
BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE
December 21
5:00 PM
CHHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES
December 24
6:00 and 10:00 PM
EPIPHANY SUNDAY
January 4
Return of "Double Take"
Pastor Jennie
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A MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KARL
A SEASON OF REFLECTION AND CELEBRATION
Advent and Christmas are quickly approaching, marking a time of deep emotional complexity. This season often carries both ache of disappointments and pain, as well as the outrageous joy that comes with the holiday. Rituals and celebrations hold a special significance during this time, helping us to navigate the range of emotions and experiences that arise. Our worship throughout the season will be enriched with music, storytelling, and cherished memories. Children will also have a special role on these celebrations, making the experience meaningful for all ages.
HIGHLIGHTING THE SPECIAL SERVICES
I would like to draw attention to several key services during this season. (For additional details, please refer to the other sections of this issue.)
BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE
Our Blue Christmas Service will take place on Sunday evening, December 21, at 5 PM. This service acknowledges that we are surrounded by both good and bad news in these challenging times. Life is a blend of shadow and light, grief and gratitude, hope and wonder, humor and heartbreak, bewilderment and remarkable beauty. The Blue Christmas Service is designed to help us cope with our own losses, tragedies, and struggles; while also celebrating the joy that persists -- the connections we value, moments of awe and wonder, and the gift of laughter. As we confront a deeply concerning political climate, this service will offer space to light candles, sing carols, hear Scripture, and spend time in silence and prayer. We will honor the memory of those we love, release our fears and disappointments, and partake in the opportunity to be anointed with oil. My hope is that this service will allow us to claim hope, ease anxieties, feel God's love, and remember that we are not alone.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES
On Christmas Eve, yu are invited to two distinct celebrations marking the birth of Christ,
Family Christmas Service at 6 PM: This service is designed for the entire family. We will sing carols, light candles, pray, and experience the Christmas story through the eyes of Mary, mother of Jesus, portrayed by McKenzie Zimmerman. The choir will present special music, and the Scriptures will be read from a Children's Bible. Please note that there will be no sermon, making it accessible and engaging for all ages.
Traditional Christmas Eve Service at 10 PM: I will be preaching as a part of this service. Together, we will blend biblical readings with congregational carols and choir anthems. The evening concludes with the lighting of candles and the Christmas blessing. This service is one of my personal favorites of the church year, and I warmly invite you to join us.
Pastor Karl
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At the current time St. Mark's does not have a full-time pastor. Pastor Kevin's last service with St. Mark's was September 15, 2024. The transition team, consisting of members of both St. Mark's and St. John's, have completed the long profile for a new pastor. The profile has been submitted to the Penn Southeast Conference of the United Church of Christ and has been made available online for perspective candidates for pastor. In the meantime, worship services are being conducted by the church's former pastor (1986--2006) Karl W. Jones and Pastor Jennie Strauch.
