THOUGHTS FROM OUR SENIOR MINISTER
We have fully entered the season of Thanksgiving, having already celebrated our annual Thanksgiving Dinner and anticipating the Ministerial Association’s Community Service this Sunday. I hope you each have plans to spend next Thursday with those you love. Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for the many blessings that enrich our lives. This time of the year is more than just a day of feasting; it is a moment to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness that can permeate our daily lives.
In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the countless reasons we have to be thankful. The simple act of taking a moment to appreciate the blessings that surround us can bring a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. As you minister, I invite you to join me in reflecting on the spirit of Thanksgiving and the profound impact our gratitude can have on our well-being.
In fact, our church’s Ministry Team has been exploring how gratitude is the foundation of our discipleship process and transforming ourselves into the Christ-like imitation our scriptures call us to be. One of the beautiful aspects of Thanksgiving is its universality. Regardless of cultural background or religious beliefs, the practice of giving thanks is a unifying force that connects us all. It transcends differences and fosters a sense of unity and community.
As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this Thanksgiving, let us remember the importance of gratitude in fostering positive relationships. Expressing appreciation not only strengthens our bonds with others but also contributes to a more compassionate and harmonious community (both within the church and within the world).
In the face of life’s many challenges, cultivating a spirit of gratitude can serve as a powerful source of resilience. It allows us to find light in the darkest moments, reminding us of the strength and beauty that exists even in the midst of adversity. The Ministry Team has been learning and exploring that when we focus on what we are thankful for, we shift our perspective and open our hearts to the hope, optimism, and joy of Christ.
I encourage each of you to take some time this Thanksgiving to engage in a gratitude practice. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply sharing a moment of reflection with loved ones, let us actively acknowledge the abundance of blessings in our lives. Know your church leadership is currently discerning how we might incorporate gratitude practice into the life of our church next year.
It is through the intentional act of gratitude that we can cultivate a more profound sense of joy and contentment. May this Thanksgiving be a time of deep reflection, heartfelt gratitude, and meaningful connections. As your minister, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve this vibrant and compassionate community. I am awe-struck by the joy of our community that can be witnessed in these pictures of our gatherings. I am grateful for each and every one of you.
Peace Always,
Rev. David Clifford
November Sermon Series:
The Good News about Death
A series that explores a difficult topic as people with resurrection hope.
Series Overview: While we speak of death often at funerals, we rarely tackle the subject head on in our Sunday worship routine. et at the core of the Christian faith is a word about death and life beyond death. The Lectionary for this period, beginning with All Saints Day to Christ the King Sunday, offer us a wonderful opportunity to explore death and the Christian hope of resurrection. Perhaps we can clear up some of society’s misguided notions along the way.
|
Sunday |
Sermon Title |
Scriptures (Focus Scripture in Bold) |
Theme |
|
November 19 Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost |
How Many Shopping Days Left? |
Judges 4:1-7 Psalm 90:1-12 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30 |
Life is a gift; use it wisely. |
|
November 26 Christ the King Sunday
|
The Last Word |
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 100 Ephesians 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46 |
No matter what life (and death) bring, Christ has the last word. |
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Prayer & Outreach Ministry: These meetings will take place at the church on Mondays @ 9:30 a.m. All are welcome to join us as we kick off this new ministry.
“Women of the Bible” study continues Tuesday, November 28 @ 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 19, we will be collecting the Thanksgiving Offering. It benefits the Colleges, Universities, Seminaries, and Divinity Houses affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Please see special offering envelope in the bulletin.
Henderson Community Ministerial Association Thanksgiving worship service will be held on November 19, here at FCC at 7:00 p.m. Please come and share in this community gathering.
Our Elders are collecting canned goods for Thanksgiving baskets until this Sunday, November 19. There is a place in the library to place your offerings. In addition to the canned goods, each basket will have a certificate for each recipient to receive a turkey or ham.
The Church office will be closed November 23 & 24 for the Thanksgiving Holiday.
The Men’s breakfast is Sunday, December 3 at 8:30 a.m.
The Deacon’s will have a meeting after worship on December 3. We need all deacons to attend please.
The CWF will have a Christmas Luncheon on Tuesday, December 5 at 11:30 a.m.
Our Christmas Dinner will be on Sunday, December 10, following morning worship. The Meat, Drinks, Rolls and Desserts will be furnished. Mark those calendars and bring your favorite vegetable or salad dish and enjoy the followship. Sign up will be on Nov. 26th and Dec. 3th in the attendance register. Any questions contact Mrs. Gail Myers 270-831-0745. We will be having a First Christian Talent Show at the dinner. There is a sign-up form on the bulletin board outside David’s office. Please share your talent with the church.
The Senior Saints Christmas luncheon will be held on Tuesday, December 12, at 11:30 am. Everyone is asked to bring a small gift to exchange for Dirty Santa. Carl and Evina Bryan will prepare the meal and request RSVPs as early as possible.
The Worship Committee has purchased Advent Devotional Guides for each family in the congregation. They will be placed in the sanctuary at each entrance and the church office window. If you do not have a daily devotion period, use of this pamphlet is a good way to start. Remember to pick up a copy for your family.
This year’s Christmas Eve Service will be held at 9 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to join us as we gather to hear the Christmas story through Scripture and song. Christmas Day will be at 10:30 a.m.
There is still time if you would like to send cards with well wishes to Augusta King, who will be celebrating her 100th birthday on November 23. Her address is 4247 Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40207.
Busy Season of Thanksgiving at FCCH
Rev. David Clifford accepts recognition and gratitude from Jefferson Elementary School Principal, Gwen Courtney
