Christmas Greetings Dear Brothers & Sisters,

     By the time you get this message, the Thanksgiving dinner will be but a memory (with perhaps a few remnants left in the refrigerator) and cookie baking lists, gift lists, and party invitations to answer will be the focus of your attention. 

     Personally, I am excited about one particular huge gift under the tree and I hope you are also.  This year, under the Christmas tree is a gift from God for all of us.  It is the gift of a new adventure, the gift of a new Church, the gift of looking back over more than 250 years of our congregation's life as a Union Church and correcting those things which need to be corrected and keeping those traditions that continue to bring meaning to our Church family.

     This gift from God is the largest package under the tree wrapped in paper of brightest colors.  Pick it up, shake it, lift it and feel the weight, and then imagine the possibilities.  There are untold possibilities of worship experiences, study groups, book studies, family events, outreach programs, and mission projects.  What we do with this gift will determine how each of us uses our personal gifts with which God has graced us.

     As recorded in Paul's letter to the Church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 12:27-31 NRSV), he wrote:"Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.  And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms o assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues.  Are all apostles?  Are all Prophets?  Are all teacher?  Do All work miracles?  Do All possess gifts of healing?  Do all speak in tongues?  Do All interpret?  But strive for the greater gifts.  And I will show you a still more excellent way."

     As we prepare to open this gift, let us focus on the possibilities and not imagine what kind of problems this might bring.  As we ring in a new year, let us all bring excitement, dedication, and thanksgiving to God for this wonderful gift and let us use it to its fullest.  

     Pat and I wish you a blessed and happy Christmas.  See you in Church.

                                                                                                                                                                                         In Christian love,

Rev. Dr. Jason A. Leader

Pastor & Teacher