A Christmas tradition that always kicks off the Swoboda Advent season is the transformation of our mantle with our nativity display. Our first Christmas after we were married, I asked for the start of a nativity set that we could add on to in consecutive years. That first year Pat gave me the Crèche and Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. Pat and my parents continued to gift me pieces of the nativity and now that complete scene is set up the weekend after Thanksgiving. Each piece is carefully unwrapped, its significance named, and placed on the mantel.As I sit on my couch every evening, it is a constant reminder that this should be our focus and reason for anticipation during the Advent season. It constantly reminds me to slow down and to remember the greatest gift of all.
Jennifer Swoboda
Wreaths Across America will arrive at our churchyard on Saturday, December 19 at Noon. As in years past, we will decorate the gravesites of deceased veterans with beautiful fresh Christmas wreaths.
Each year, the Flower Committee decorates the church for the Advent and Christmas Season. You can be a part of this tradition by making a contribution (in any amount) to offset the costs. This is a way of remembering loved ones or honoring friends and family at Christmas time.
Our new Parish Administrator Valerie Manges is now managing the names for our Prayer Chain and weekly prayer lists. Please notify her at the church office if you have any prayer requests or want to remove a name from the prayer list.
