December 7, 2025
Dear All,
I’m not sure that I have anything wise or particularly wonderful to say to you all today. I suspect you also have those days. I finished up the bulletins for Advent and Christmas and started working on Epiphany season liturgies. I drafted and sent off the worship leaders’ schedule for January through Holy Week and Easter, April 5, 2026. I have a sense that I’ve not completed 2025 and yet, I’m already working on 2026.
Perhaps that is Advent — looking back while working forward – hoping something new and exciting, yet totally unexpected will be soon on the horizon. In my 29th year of ordained ministry, the ebb and flow of the church year remains constant and dependable – Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost and then, Ordinary time (summer).
Despite the routine of it all, there yet remains a mysterious unexpectedness that is imbued within the normal flow. You never know what the Holy Spirit will launch into your path, but we are to be prepared at all times for whatever it might be. To some extent, the preparedness or perhaps anxiety we must live with is as of the same type as if you are waiting for your appointment for a root canal. You know there is pain involved, but it’s the good kind of pain as the result is well worth the ache one must bear.
For now, I am doing a whole lot of praying . . . for the students who are preparing to take their finals next week. For the immigrants who must run and hide now having thought they had left it behind in the old country. For our first responders who must respond no matter the weather or situation. For our country and its leaders, who must think beyond their own needs and consider those of others first. For those with physical struggles which limit their ability to participate in the community or world. For those with mental struggles, who often battle alone with a hidden disease.
May you continue to have an expectant Advent . . . waiting for the miracle of a Savior to bring about the kingdom of God. In the meantime . . .
Blessings to you and yours,
Karen+