‍LOCAL NEWS

WELCOME GUESTS & VISITORS! Thanks for joining us today—especially if you came to cheer on one of our amazing kids. We hope you feel at home and experience a little of God’s love and joy here. If you’re looking for a Christmas service (or even a new church family), we’d love to welcome you back. No pressure—just an open invitation.

GOOD NEWS: NO RECOUNT NEEDED

… At the December 7^th Congregational meeting, the following individuals were chosen (from a double slate) for Elders & Deacons. If you know of any biblical reasons why any of these people chosen cannot serve, please contact Pastor Bob or Pastor Brian. Elders: Mike Daane, Eric Hesselink and Lynne Tebeest. Deacons: Nancy Huenink (Mrs. Jeremy), Tim Swart and Justin Van Ess.

NO SUNDAY SCHOOL—BECAUSE THE KIDS ALREADY PREACHED THE SERMON! Everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall to celebrate Jesus’ birthday with cake, punch, and coffee. And while you’re there, be sure to thank our kids for their tremendous work this morning as they shared the story of Jesus’ birth in a fresh way—through drama, song, and scripture memorization. Guests & visitors – just turn left out of the sanctuary to head to the Fellowship Hall.

SILENT NIGHT? NOT ON THIS SURPRISE TOUR! This year the Giving eXperience is pulling up to the front lawns of seven individuals, hoping to bring them a burst of unexpected Christmas joy! To make it even more festive, come dressed in your most over-the-top holiday attire—no coordination necessary! Think Dollar Store bulb necklaces, ugly sweaters, outrageous socks, yes, even a Santa hat counts. Mostly, just bring your smiles and your voices.

🎫 Get Your Ticket HERE (RSVP site closes this Thursday, Dec. 18th at 5 PM).
📅 Departure Date: Sun., Dec. 21
⏰ Departure Time: 4 PM
📍 Departure Gate: Fellowship Hall

…And if you’re able and willing, we are seeking gas or food gift cards in increments of $10-$25 to include in a gift basket that we leave at some of our stops! You can deposit in the locked box behind the Welcome Center or drop off at the office by this Thursday, Dec. 18!  

☀️🌴 SUNNY SERVING: NOW WITH EVEN MORE INTEREST! Good news: we’re already up to ten people interested in the 2026 Reformed Rebuilders trip to Pinellas County, Florida (a.k.a. the Tampa Bay area, a.k.a. “the place where February is not winter”). At this rate, we may need a party bus. 🚌🎉

We’ll be heading down to help rebuild homes damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton—real, meaningful work that genuinely changes lives. Projects may include painting, siding, drywall, and whatever else Florida hands us. Whether you’re a seasoned tool-wielder or you consider “assembling IKEA furniture” your construction experience, there’s a spot for you. If you’re sensing the nudge (or the sunshine calling your name), let Pastor Brian, any Deacon, or the church office know by the end of this week. We’re gathering availability for either Feb. 7–14 or Feb. 14–21, 2026. Come for the mission. And maybe the vitamin D... 

AND, the CHRISTMAS DAY OFFERING is designated to support this REFORMED REBUILDERS service trip to help offset transportation and food for the team. World Renew covers supplies. 

DECEMBER SPECIAL OFFERING. In support of Pine Haven Christian Communities’ Annual Appeal Drive, the Deacons have designated the December Special Offering to benefit Pine Haven. There are two ways you can give a gift to Pine Haven this month: Through our Special Offering, as mentioned above, or by using the Annual Appeal Form from Pine Haven located at the Welcome Center or the narthex track rack.

🩳NEWS BRIEFS 

🐶Unscheduled Audition. The kids Christmas program rehearsal got “interesting” when a stray dog (with definite lamb vibes) wandered in and tried out for a role. Great enthusiasm, questionable species…#NotInScript #RehearsalCrash #LambDog #ThisIsAFirst

Thank you so much for all you generously gave—whether food, time, funds, or prayers—for the Dec. (Christmas) Food Pick-up. This month we were able to serve 36 families in the name of Jesus. It’s amazing to see how God continues to work wonders: we distributed $7,596 worth of groceries, and FRC only paid $747 for those groceries! God is so good!

We extend our deepest sympathy to Brenda Smallegan and her family in the passing of Pastor Steve Smallegan. Steve passed on Sunday, Dec. 7^th after a 2 year battle with cancer.

Last week’s offering was $20,924 and attendance was 396. Month-to-Date special offering for Pine Haven is at $190.