February 2023 Breeze Newsletter Online

Good February all,
Here is a question, what month is the month when you finally get sick of winter?
Is it January?
Is it February?
March?
I think that I have concluded it is February. It is usually the coldest month. It usually doesn’t snow too much. But one of the best parts about February is that it is short.
The thing is, though, with February, another thing begins: the season of Lent.
Ash Wednesday is on February 22nd.
Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the Lenten season which lasts 40 days.
You see, when it came to the early Christian Church, they understood the importance of Jesus’ passion and resurrection. During this time, the Church decided that there should be a 40 day “season” of spiritual preparation prior to the celebration of Easter.
During these 40 days, converts to the Christian faith also had to prepare for Holy Baptism.
But, for those who were already followers, it was a time to reconcile through forgiveness which allowed them back into the life of the Church.
In all, it was a reminder to the whole congregation of the mercy and forgiveness that was proclaimed throughout the Gospels of Jesus, showing us that we all need to renew our faith. (UMC Book of Worship)
So, what should we focus on besides the cold weather?
We should focus on ourselves, by examining what we are doing as followers of Christ.
We should be praying.
We should be reading and meditating on God’s Word.
I also want to remind you all that the season of Lent is a time to come together on Wednesday nights. We will be holding Lenten service every Wednesday night beginning March 1st. Come and join in with everyone who is looking for guidance this Lenten season.
Once again, I would like to thank you all for the kind gestures over the holiday season. You are all very generous.
Stay warm. Stay loving.
Pastor Greg Leslie

January 2023 Breeze Newsletter Online

December 2022 Breeze Newsletter Online

Merry December, Faithful Disciples.

Yes, it is December, a month of preparation. A month of cooling temperatures, cuddling up with a blanket, and a cup of chocolate. That is if you have the time to spare.

This month we will be looking at preparation.

Preparing for what you might ask.

Preparing for the Christ Child once again.

Over the Sundays of the Advent season, we will explore John the Baptist. Each year we find ourselves at one point or another reading about John and him asking us to turn our hearts to the coming Lord; this year is no different.

To me, John was an integral part of Jesus’ ministry. He was a part of a prophecy that needed fulfillment. He was the one that got our attention. So, this Advent, we need John to prepare us for the coming of Christ.

As we work through December, we have much happening. On the 10^th, we have Santa day. If you would like to donate, it would be appreciated. We are still looking for “dad” gifts. Examples of this would be flashlights, screwdrivers, pliers, or some type of adjustable wrench. These seem to go quickly. We also need presents for the rest of the family: sisters, brothers, moms, and grandparents.

Historically, Santa Day gives us here at the church an opportunity to meet local families. To spend time with children and parents. To show them what being a follower of Christ is about. So, if you haven’t signed up yet to be a volunteer, please do; I promise your day will be fulfilling.

Lastly, make sure you check the church calendar for time changes. This year Christmas Eve falls on Saturday, and the time for the service has changed to 4:30. And a friendly reminder that there will be no church service on Christmas Day.

As always, over the holiday season, may you stay safe and warm as we prepare once again for Emmanuel.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Blessing’s

Pastor Greg Leslie