Weekly Briefing for Dec. 12, 2021

Posted byRon LeixPosted inNews

It’s the Third Sunday of Advent — otherwise known as Gaudete Sunday. This day takes its common name from the Latin word “Gaudete,” which means “rejoice.”

Throughout Advent, the liturgy often reflects the preparation and expectation for the coming celebration of our Lord’s nativity, and for the final coming of Christ “in power and glory.” As we narrow down the 40 days of Advent in preparation of Christmas, Gaudete Sunday provides a midway break within our contemplative season, with the liturgy reflecting joy in the promised redemption.

Instead of violet or Sarum Blue, the color of the day is rose, including the third week’s candle in the Advent wreath.

Collect for the Third Sunday of Advent

Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

Readings

  • Zephaniah 3:14-20
  • Canticle 9 – The First Song of Isaiah (Isaiah 12:2-6)
  • Philippians 4:4-7
  • Luke 3:7-18

More: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/lectionary/advent-3c/

Key Things to Check Out This Week

“Singing in the Dark”

In a special piece, St. David’s Music Director Paul Dombroske reflects how Christians viewed the time of lamp lighting as a metaphor for the Light of Christ illuminating a world in darkness. Read the historical devotion.

Help Us Fill Up a Personal Needs Closet

A personal needs closet will be reopening at North Westminster Presbyterian Church. In order to do so, they need to rebuild their supply of the following items:

  • Toilet paper
  • Laundry soap
  • Bleach
  • Dish soap
  • Tissue
  • Deodorant
  • Tampons
  • Pads
  • Bar Soap
  • Paper towel
  • Shampoo
  • Toothpaste

Thank you in advance for your generosity. There is a container in the Narthex eagerly awaiting your donations.

Hat and Mitten Tree

With old man winter breathing down our necks, it isn’t too soon to start thinking about donations for our annual “Hat and Mitten Tree.”

The tree is located in the Fr. David Pike Great Hall. Donations of hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, socks, throws, and any kind of warm winter clothing will be accepted.

All donations will be taken to the Lansing Rescue Mission.

Please help us “green” the tree with items to help those less fortunate this winter. Thank you for your continued support so we can extend God’s love to those in need.

Questions? Please contact Sharon Phipps at 517-897-0417 or srfroeli@hotmail.com.

Planning Ahead for Christmas

Dec. 19 — The Fourth Sunday of Advent: Greening of the Church following the 9:30 a.m. worship service.

Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve: 4 p.m. Holy Eucharist (in-person and online); 5:30-6 p.m. Drive-Thru Eucharist (Please enter the parking lot via the north driveway, circle behind the building and use the south driveway to exit. Communion will be available at the main entrance portico.)

Lesser Feasts and Fasts