Christmas is a party. Specifically, it's a birthday party — for Jesus — and birthdays are meant to be celebrated. It's why we say "Merry Christmas!"
Ironically, at most Christmas parties the person whose birthday we're supposed to be celebrating is completely ignored. He's never even mentioned. Although Jesus is the reason for the season, he's often overlooked or merely mentioned along with Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus, the Grinch, elves, and a long list of celebrated fictional characters.
As I was writing this little book, I decided to take a survey of Christmas shoppers. I asked, "What are you celebrating this Christmas?" Most answers had nothing to do with Jesus.~ Rick Warren
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Did you know that....
America’s first recipe for Christmas cakes dates back to 1796.
In Australia, the turkey is eaten cold.
In the old times, sugar was very expensive; therefore, Christmas cakes were a luxury.
In Denmark, they put hot porridge outside for the pixies on Christmas Eve.
The first gingerbread man is credited to the court of Queen Elizabeth I, who favored important visitors with charming gingerbread likenesses of themselves.
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Our Christmas Concert on December 14th was indeed a wonderful blessing! Actually, we’re compelled to continue from our last edition’s “Thanksgiving” theme by personally thanking the many individuals who helped make the Program a joyous time for all:
All Church Members! Too many to mention, but everyone who brought food, helped with set-up and cleanup, greeted the guests, invited friends and family, etc. etc….As a Church Family, we truly gave a blessing and service to our Community.
Pi-Ju Chiang! Our beloved and talented Pianist, for giving extra effort with some intense rehearsals involving new songs with unfamiliar singers. Her playing was, as usual, spectacular!
Andrea Anelli-Schulz! First Covenant’s dear friend and one rather remarkable Soprano that has become a fixture in many of our musical productions. Her three songs were riveting, dramatic and powerful, the perfect testament to her commitment for what she loves to do.
Winds Of Change! Cherie, David and Mike demonstrated their serious desire to entertain, while also sharing their pure singing talents with their theatrical style and virtually seamless diversity. From leading the audience in a sing along with “Silver Bells” to closing with the rousing “Joyful Joyful” (from the movie Sister Act), WOC gained another roomful of new, smiling fans.
Our Choir! Solid and sincere as usual, First Covenant’s Choir sang 2 wonderful and spirited selections. In addition to that, Connie, Max and Kristin provided a sweet Christmas medley of their own with Clarinet and Flute.
Martin and Sheila Moskow! Giving the audience touching and passionate renditions of both Christian as well as traditional Jewish songs, this likeable Couple was warmly embraced by all in attendance.
Ashley Gulla! A young singer, basically making her public debut on this night, Ashley proved her desire and talent to be “as big as the sea” with touching renditions of “The Christmas Song” and “Do You Hear What I Hear”. Her performance of “Breath Of Heaven” was so beautifully done, most in attendance were probably humming that melody the next day.
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The Publishers of this Newsletter wish blessings upon everyone this Christmas season. Our dedication and focus is on Community and Prayer. First Covenant Church of Willoughby Hills remains committed to being a “beacon of light” for all brothers and sisters in Christ.
We welcome your friendship and feedback in all that we do. Our continued and growing tradition involving music is just one of the ways we try to glorify God’s creation, as we walk together on His path.
Invite; Encourage; Involvement. That’s our challenge to you as we end 2008 by spreading the love represented by the birth of Jesus, while looking forward to an even better 2009!
~the editors
