The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” John 1:5
Dear Friend:
Christmas always comes at the darkest time of the year. It could even be said that this entire year has been dark. A year where our lives have been upended by a global pandemic, a deepening understanding of our corporate history of racism, a nation divided, and economic instability and inequality not experienced in decades. And, in the midst of all of this darkness, we have also seen much light – heroic healthcare workers, teachers and students teaching and learning in new ways, a parish community learning how to connect and serve more than ever even when we cannot gather in-person. The eyes of faith can teach us to see and know the light, even in the darkness. A light in the darkness, that we know in Jesus.
This year Christmas will be different. At the same time, the story we celebrate of God being born to a human family to bring salvation to us and the entire world, remains the same. I want to invite you to join us at St. Paul’s in celebrating the events of this Christmas Season.
You are invited to bring an ornament to help decorate the parish Christmas Tree on the front lawn of St. Paul’s. Please bring one from your home anytime between now and Christmas.
St. Paul’s relies on gifts like yours to continue to serve the local community and the wider world, and to be beacon of the light of Christ in a dark world. We cannot do it without your critical support. It is the generosity of those who surround this Church which allows us to continue our work. In this strange year, we need your support now more than ever. You can give via the envelope with the Christmas letter or donate online here.
I pray that you will give generously when you make your Christmas gift to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Thank you!
Peace,
The Reverend Noah H. Evans
Rector