How hope shapes our generosity in simple ways

COMMUNITY CHURCH

By Johan Dodge

Reverend

As I write this, the country is still deeply divided. Almost everything around us, including the talking heads, are telling us of our inescapable division, and that the other viewpoint, whatever that other viewpoint may be, is wrong. Meanwhile, the church is currently in the season of Advent. Community Church is participating in the season of extended Advent, which runs seven weeks instead of the traditional four weeks. Advent is the start of the Christian year, so while we may still be stuck in 2020 for a few more weeks, in the church we can already begin to look past this year for the record books.

As we look to the future together, as we begin to dream, Advent reminds us that there was very little room for the baby Jesus to be born in a world under Roman occupation, and yet God’s divine hope found a way in a manger, a feeding trough for animals, in a small town away from the trappings of power and corruption.

Our online worship community is continuing to grow on Facebook, so whether you are joining us for the first time, or are a recent participant in our worship, I will share what I share every Sunday morning: “You are welcome here. Here is a place where all are welcome.”

Our theme for this year is: “Carved by Love: A year of Good News.” This third Sunday of Advent is focused on Matthew 25:31-46.

To hear this teaching as well as worship music, tune in on Sunday morning at 9:50 on Facebook live. @ community-churchleisure-world.

To join virtual fellowship, you will need to call the church office or email leisurewccsue@ yahoo.

com.

Those who don’t have a computer or Facebook can call in to the phone system at (562) 431-2503 and listen to the weekly message beginning Sunday evening Communion is served the first Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. in front of the church. The elements are pre-sealed for safety, and the liturgy is part of the morning worship on Facebook. Those who come must wear a mask and maintain distancing. The Communion table is an open table; all who want to receive Communion may participate. You do not need to be a member of the church.

A day of prayer was observed to prepare for the Thanksgiving and Advent seasons with gratitude to God. His presence and goodness to us are displayed even in the pandemic. During the Day of Prayer, personal prayers of gratitude were attached to the tree.

The Missions Team will continue to collect new white socks for Veterans for the “Sock it to Em” sock drive through the end of November. Drop off socks or a cash donation toward the purchase of socks at the office Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

If you are in need without another way to address it, call the church office at (562) 431-2503.