The Vista
News and Events for Vista Ridge United Methodist Church
December 10, 2015
Pastor Mary Beth's Musings
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…”
Yes, it is, for some of us. But for many others, the approaching Christmas holiday does not bring with it the joy and happiness that is advertised on television or in greeting cards. They may be facing a holiday after the death of a loved one or after a divorce.
Perhaps they have been unable to have a child, or have suffered through an emotional trauma. Or perhaps they feel pressured and overwhelmed by holiday preparations,
or by the “expectations” of Christmas at a time of struggling with job loss.
In response to this reality, Vista Ridge United Methodist Church will offer the annual Blue Christmas Service of Wholeness and Healing – Monday, December 21, at 7 p.m. This service will be very different from our Sunday morning worship services and our two Christmas Eve services. It will be a quiet, reflective, prayerful time to focus on the comfort and light God gives us in dark and difficult times.
While you may not personally need this kind of comfort this December, perhaps you know someone who does. I encourage you to invite them to come with you on December 21.
I’m praying for you. I hope you’re praying for me.
Glory to God!
Pastor Mary Beth
Special Choir Music on Sunday
Come enjoy some beloved hymns and Anton's piano gifts. There will also be scriptures from Luke 2, a breaking news video, a sermon, and prayers. Pastor Mary Beth will continue her Seeking Christ in Christmas Advent sermon series.
Donations for the CCA Food Pantry can be placed at the altar on Sunday before worship. VRUMC is responsible for stocking the canned meat shelves for the CCA angels. All types of canned meat are accepted.
Door Hanger Volunteers, Parking Lot Greeters Needed
The church is in need of volunteers to deliver door hangers door-to-door in nearby neighborhoods. The neighborhoods adjacent to the church have been divided into streets with the appropriate number of door hangers needed. They can be picked up at the church and delivered on your own time schedule, preferably by December 16.
Parking lot greeters are needed on Christmas Eve to welcome those attending worship at 5 and 7 p.m. Greeters are needed 20 minutes prior to the start of each service.
Please email laurie@vrumc.org with your interest.
Jesus is the Light Family Night
On Sunday, December 13, families of children 5th grade and younger are invited to help us share the light with Advent activity stations and campfire fun! The event will begin at 2 p.m. There is no cost to participate; canned meat donations will be collected for the CCA Food Pantry. RSVP to lisa@vrumc.org so supplies can be planned accordingly. Please include any allergies or intolerances.
Serving Opportunity at CCA Food Pantry
The CCA Food Pantry has a serving opportunity this holiday season for those who want to volunteer their time to help those in need. Volunteer days and times are December 15 and 17 from 1-4 p.m. or 6-8:30 p.m. Work includes sorting canned goods and restocking pantry shelves. Sign up to participate in the narthex or email bill@vrumc.org.
CCA Tree with Christmas Wishes
Visit the CCA Tree in the narthex and browse the ornaments labeled with Christmas wishes from the angels CCA serves. Please consider taking an ornament, filling that wish, and returning the new, unwrapped item to the tree by Thursday, December 17. If you choose to buy a gift card, stop by the Faith Funds shopping card table on Sunday morning or shop at the church office. Please leave any gift cards with the church office.
Women’s Fellowship Social
The women of the church will meet for a fellowship social at 6:30 p.m. Friday, December 18, at the home of Nikki Monkman-Lou. Come for soup and bunco. Please RSVP to Nikki Lou, nlou.shoes@gmail.com.
Faith Funds Shopping Cards
Avoid the mall craziness and shop on Sunday morning at the gift card table in the church narthex. There are a variety of shopping card options, including retailers, restaurants, fast food and entertainment. They are purchased at a discount and sold at face value. If a gift card isn’t in stock, place an order and receive the same week.
Vista Ridge United Methodist Church
Traditional Worship, 8:30 a.m. Sunday
Blended Worship, 11 a.m. Sunday
Email: laurie@vrumc.org
Website: www.vistaridgeumc.org
Location: 2901 Denton Tap Road, Lewisville, TX, United States
Phone: 972.315.5225