December 11, 2022

Christ Church exists to show everyone God loves them unconditionally.

We do that by EXPERIENCING, EMBRACING, AND EXTENDING

God's love.

There are three ways to give to the mission of Christ Church:

you can mail in your pledge, give online, or text GIVE to (850) 403-6673.

We experience God's love (Worship)

Sunday 10:30 AM service streamed on Facebook Live or YouTube 

Click here to listen to last week's sermon.

**An email is sent on Saturdays with links for Sunday worship and Christian Education.

In-Person services on Sunday at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM

In-Person service on Wednesday at 12:00 PM



We embrace God's love (Study/Formation)

Prepare the Way of the Lord — An Advent Study

Sundays, through December 18 ~ 9:30 AM ~ Parish Hall

Join Fr. Michael and Rev. Katie for a three-week Advent class, "Prepare the Way of the Lord". The season of Advent is a time of preparation, and we hear several stories of John the Baptist. In this class, we will study what we learn of John the Baptist in Scripture, the one who prepared the way of the Lord by preaching repentance.

An Advent Contemplation: "Holy Disruption: Discovering Advent in the Gospel of Mark"

Sundays ~ 9:15 AM

Rm. 31 of Education Bldg. or by Zoom link here

Meeting ID: 878 4884 3240 Password: 510649

Starlit nights, angels singing, and families filled with love and wonder are the images most see for Advent and Christmas. Mark tells a somewhat different story of Jesus' intervention in the world. What did Mark think Jesus taught about God's dream for home and family? The second chapter of Tracy Daub's book guides us to "Finding Our Home in the Kingdom of God."

"Our House"

Sundays ~ 9:30 AM ~ Library in Education Bldg.

Whether it is a combination of aging parents, angsty teens, troublesome tots, killer careers or maybe even an overambitious DIY project, mid-life often means many competing priorities. We can have it all, just not all at once and all on our own. Come explore the word of God, discuss your journey, deepen your relationships and maybe gain some clarity and peace.

We extend the love of God (Outreach/Parishioner Support)

Bridging the Gap

Our neighbors without homes are in great need of new or used clothes (especially men’s), socks, washcloths, and toiletries – including bars of soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, disposable razors, hand sanitizer, and hand cream. Donations can be left in the boxes labeled 'Bridging the Gap' in the back hallway of the church offices. Please click here for more information on how to help.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Membership Matters Class

Sunday, December 11

ECW Bake Sale

Sunday, December 11

Russell Levenson Book Signing

Tuesday, December 13

Children's Christmas Pageant

Sunday, December 18

WOULD YOU LIKE TO REPRESENT CHRIST CHURCH PARISH 

DURING THE 52nd ANNUAL CONVENTION 

OF THE DIOCESE OF THE CENTRAL GULF COAST IN 2023?

The Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast will meet at the University of West Florida Conference Center in Pensacola on Friday, March 3 and Saturday, March 4, 2023. At its regular December meeting, the vestry of Christ Church will elect delegates and alternatives to represent our parish at this annual convention. To be eligible for election, you must be at least sixteen years of age, a confirmed member in good standing at Christ Church, and make a regular financial contribution to this parish. If you would like to be considered as a candidate, please email Kelly Heindl. Sign-up deadline is Wednesday, December 7.

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS SERVICE SCHEDULE

Children's Christmas Pageant

Sunday, December 18 ~ during the 10:30 service

Christmas Eve ~ Saturday, December 24

4:00 PM Holy Eucharist for Children & Families ~ Nursery care available

6:00 PM Holy Eucharist ~ Nursery care available

10:00 PM  Christmas Prelude Concert with the Parish Choir

10:30 PM The Midnight Mass of Christmas

Christmas Day ~ Sunday, December 25

10:30 AM  Holy Eucharist with carols & organ music

**Please note we will offer only one service on Christmas Day**

(No Christian Education or Parish Breakfast)

The Parish Office will be closed

Monday, December 26 through Friday, December 30.

New Year's Day ~ Sunday, January 1

10:30 AM  Holy Eucharist

**Please note we will offer only one service on New Year's Day**

(No Christian Education or Parish Breakfast)

MONTCLAIR ANGEL TREE

This year, Christ Church is partnering with Montclair Elementary to support students in great need with gifts for Christmas. There will also be the opportunity to “adopt” teachers by donating towards gift cards for needed classroom items and for personal appreciation for the work they do. Too busy or prefer not to shop? No problem! Donations are greatly appreciated via a check made out to Christ Church, clearly marked for the Angel Tree or online (please choose the outreach fund). We will also need volunteers to help sort and transport gifts. To sign up for adopting, volunteering, or donating, please click here, or contact Honey Harris with any questions! All labeled, unwrapped presents must be brought to the church by Monday, December 12.

CHRISTMAS FLOWER DEDICATIONS

The beautiful poinsettias and live greenery that adorn our altar, chancel rail and chapel are a special part of the celebration of Christmas at Christ Church. We invite all parishioners to share in the experience through a memorial or thanksgiving gift. Names of the loved ones you honor or remember will be printed in the Christmas bulletin. Flower dedication forms are available here and on the information table in the Parish Office and are due no later than Friday, December 16.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS CLASS

Sunday, December 11 ~ 9:15 AM ~ Parlor

Father Michael will be leading a class for new members and anyone who wants to learn more about our church. The class will be held in the Parlor on Sunday, December 11 at 9:15 AM. Please feel free to grab something from the parish breakfast and bring with you!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR

THE ECW BAKE SALE!

Sunday, December 11 ~ after both services

Calling all bakers! We will need lots (and lots) of cookies, cakes, and pies for the annual ECW Christmas Bake Sale. Drop off your treats on Friday, December 9 in the Parish Hall. A sign up sheet is available on the information table in the Parish Office. Questions? Contact Bake Sale Chair, Allison Mitchell.

Save the date!!

BOOK SIGNING WITH DR. RUSSELL LEVENSON

Tuesday, December 13 ~ 6-8 PM ~ Parish Hall

Join us for a special evening with Dr. Russell Levenson as he discusses his new book, Witness to Dignity: The Life and Faith of George H.W. and Barbara Bush. George and Barbara Bush belonged to and were active members of St. Martin's, Houston for more than 50 years. Reverend Russell Jones Levenson, Jr., rector of St. Martin's, believes he was invited into private moments with these public individuals so he could serve as a witness: a witness to observe, and a witness to tell. With never-before shared correspondence, experiences, and personal stories, Dr. Levenson offers new insight into the Bushes’ wit and wisdom in Witness to Dignity. Their commitment to family and friends; their tireless desire to bless the lives of others; and their steadfast loyalty to their church, their faith, and their God. Before embarking on writing this book on faith, Levenson sought and received the blessing of all the Bush children, including the 43rd president. Click here for a special message to Christ Church from Dr. Levenson. Books will be available for purchase that evening, $29.00 each, via cash or credit card.

CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

Sunday, December 18 ~ 10:30 service

We are so excited that Christmas is upon us and that the children of Christ Church will officially kick off the Christmas season at Christ Church this Sunday. The Children’s Christmas pageant, "The Friendly Beasts", takes place *during* the 10:30 AM service on Sunday, December 18. This interactive pageant tells the story of Jesus' birth through the eyes of those that were in the stable with him, the animals. Our fourth and fifth graders open the pageant and the rest of the children help them to take us all on a very cute journey. The congregation takes part in singing the Christmas songs we know and love so well. There’s something for everyone! Children (2 yrs. old and up) can be dropped off as early as 9:30 AM in the Parish Hall on Sunday to put on costumes and prepare for their big moment. From 9:30 to the start of the pageant, they will be cared for, filled with donuts, and have some Christmas fun in the Parish Hall. They will then be escorted to the church for the pageant. For questions, please contact Victoria.

ADVENT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION OFFERING:

"Prepare the Way of the Lord" led by Fr. Michael & Rev. Katie

Sundays, through December 18 ~ 9:30 AM ~ Parish Hall

Join Fr. Michael and Rev. Katie for a three-week Advent class, "Prepare the Way of the Lord". The season of Advent is a time of preparation, and we hear several stories of John the Baptist. In this class, we will study what we learn of John the Baptist in Scripture, the one who prepared the way of the Lord by preaching repentance. This class will be held at 9:30 AM in the Parish Hall.

YACC (YOUNG ADULTS OF CHRIST CHURCH)

Tuesdays ~ 6:00 PM ~ Odd Colony

All young adults are invited to meet on Tuesdays at Odd Colony Brewing Company (260 N. Palafox).

EPIC BOOK CLUB

Wednesday, December 7 ~ 3:00 PM ~ Parlor

The Epic Book Club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 3:00 PM in the Parlor. The December book discussion will be The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray. Please click here to be added to the email list for updates, and/or join our Facebook group (EPIC Bookclub of Christ Episcopal Church).

BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW

Saturday, December 10 ~ 8:00 AM

at Azalea Trace

Dr. Jason Hobratschk & The Parish Choir present

Christmas Music at Azalea Trace

Meeting at 8 AM ~ Breakfast at 8:30 AM ~ Music at 9:30 AM

All Azalea Trace residents invited along with all parishioners!

PLEASE sign up for 8:30 breakfast reservations

via the Brotherhood link on the Christ Church website,

www.christ-church.net

DAUGHTERS OF THE KING

Saturday, December 10

9:30 AM ~ Parlor

We meet at 9:30 AM on the second Saturday of each month in the Parlor. Anyone interested in learning more about DOK can attend a meeting or contact Monica Barnard.

ST. LUKE CHAPTER MEETING

Tuesday, December 13 ~ 11:00 AM ~ at the home of Bonnie Benz

CIRCLE OF CARE MEETING

Wednesday, December 14 ~ 11:00 AM ~ Parlor

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Thursday, December 15 ~ 9:30 AM ~ Parlor

Newcomers always welcome; instructions provided for those who wish to learn!

PRIMETIMERS

Wednesday, December 21 ~ 1:30 PM ~ Parlor

Christ Church Seniors, now known as the Primetimers, will have a dessert social on Wednesday, December 21 at 1:30 PM in the Parlor. Goodies will be provided as well as sugar free offerings. Please join us and, if you wish, bring your favorite goodie with some to share. We hope to see you there!

ADULT EDUCATION OFFERING

An Advent Contemplation:

"Holy Disruption: Discovering Advent in the Gospel of Mark"

Sundays ~ 9:15 AM

Rm. 31 of Education Bldg. or by Zoom link here

Starlit nights, angels singing, and families filled with love and wonder are the images most see for Advent and Christmas. Mark tells a somewhat different story of Jesus' intervention in the world. What did Mark think Jesus taught about God's dream for home and family? The second chapter of Tracy Daub's book guides us to "Finding Our Home in the Kingdom of God." Join the discussion this Sunday at 9:15 AM in Room 31 of the Education Building or by Zoom.

EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY (EfM) REGISTRATION FOR NEW YEAR

The Outline of Faith in our Book of Common Prayer asks the question “Through whom does the Church carry out its mission?” Our answer is “The church carries out its mission through the ministry of all its members.” EfM will enrich your spiritual life and support you as you discover and live out your ministry. How can you best use your gifts and talents? EfM is designed for lay people with big questions and a hunger to better understand our faith. We join together weekly to study Old Testament, New Testament, church history and theological thinking in a four year program but you only commit to one academic year at a time. The seminar builds fellowship, understanding and a sense of how God is working in your life. Registration for our new year ends December 14, 2022. We will meet on Tuesday evenings in the Parlor, 5-7:30 PM, beginning January 10, 2023. Tuition includes the 2022-2023 Reading and Reflection Guide. For additional information, contact Pam Tanner.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES

8:00 AM – The Nursery is available for children ages infant through 3 years old.

9:30 AM – Sunday School for 4 years old through 5th grade. The Nursery is available for our young children during this time as well.

• Nursery – The Nursery is available for children ages infant through 3 years old.

• Godly Play – Pre-K 4’s thru 3rd graders return to the Godly Play Room with a new season of stories and activities. In Godly Play, children learn the stories of our faith while playing, crafting, and exploring. A snack is offered. The Godly Play room is on the second floor of the Christian Education building. Running a little late? Just follow the footprints!

• Journey Through the Bible – 4th and 5th graders have started a brand new journey and are having a blast with trivia, games, and some pretty big goals for the year! "Journey Through the Bible" is a two year curriculum that tackles a Testament each year. This year is all about the Old Testament. This class is full of biblical adventure with a few treats, hands on activities, Bible Jeopardy, Trivia Treasure, prayer, and growth. The 4th and 5th grade room is on the second floor of the Christian Education building, at the end of the hall. Running a little late? Just follow the footprints!

10:30 AM – Children are always welcome during service at Christ Church. A "Kid's Korner" with books, quiet activities, and art has been created for you to use at the entrance on Wright Street. During the service, children will leave prior to the sermon for their own lesson and return at the passing of the peace.

STAY CONNECTED WITH

CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY!

Children and Family Ministry (CFM) has two ways to keep our families connected with Christ Church during the week. CFM is on Instagram, @cckidspensacola, and shares what is happening on Sunday mornings & ideas for how to keep faithful conversations happening during the week. CFM also has a bite-sized weekly email with the "5 Things" our families need to know for the week – Sunday reminders, save the dates, and more. Would you like to be added? Email Victoria to be added to the list!

EPISCOPAL YOUTH COMMUNITY NEWS

EYC DECEMBER EVENTS

December is here and EYC is going to have some fun! 

• This Saturday, 12/10 — EYC Christmas Shopping Trip at Cordova Mall, 9-10:30 AM
• This Sunday, 12/11 
• High School Only Christmas Party ~ 11:45 AM-1:30 PM (following 10:30 service)
• Middle School Scavenger Hunt ~ 4-7 PM ~ Meet at Blue Wahoos Stadium parking lot 
• Saturday, 12/17 - Caroling at Azalea Trace Nursing Home ~ 11:15 AM-12:30 PM 
• Tuesday, 12/20 - Christmas Movie Night in the Undercroft ~ 6-8 PM

Sign up for any or all of these events here. 

Weekly newsletter here.

ALTAR FLOWER DEDICATIONS

Each week our worship service is enhanced with beautiful fresh flowers. After the Sunday services, the altar flower arrangements are reworked into smaller arrangements. These arrangements are delivered to members of our parish family that are unable to attend a Sunday service. The altar flowers are a memorial, a thanksgiving for an anniversary, a birthday, a new birth, or a thanksgiving for God's blessings. The donation is listed in the weekly bulletin. Forms to participate in this ministry are available here and on the information table in the Parish Office.

CARE IN COMMUNITY

Christ Church is here for you. There are many ministries to love and support the people who are the church. If you are interested in assisting with staying connected to our church family, please email Rev. Katie or call her at the Parish Office, 850-432-5115. It is easy to feel alone or disconnected, so reach out to one of the priests or someone at the church to say hello. Contact Rev. Katie if you or anyone you know has any needs. If you have a pastoral emergency, please call our pastoral care emergency line to speak directly with one of the priests: (850) 462-5137.

PRAYERS FOR OUR PARISH FAMILY

I. For Those in Need. Including the poor, the unemployed, the lonely, the hungry, the homeless, the abused, the sick and dying, and those who grieve. For those suffering in body, mind, or spirit—including Members: Betty Boddy, Linda Nicks, George Andrews, John & Gail LeRoy, Sandy Brown, Leonora Edwards, Susan Martin, Nancy Stafford, Bruce & Meg Melvin, Laura Wolfersperger, Dee Whisenhunt Family & Friends: Amber & David Deese, John Charles Matthews, Kelley Matthews, Carolyn Butcher, Betty Lou Pyle, Kelly Currin, Dylan Sims, Raider Byrd, Rob Wilmer. 

II. For Those in the Armed Forces, especially—Erik Barton, Stewart Bova, Danica Roark Domokos, Sam Gaston, Robert Geiger, Sterling Gilliam III, Mitchell Harless, William Harper, Harry B. Harris, Benjamin Jensen, Joshua Justin, Art Lantigua, Hillary Leonard, Ben Mathis, Kathryn Martin, Sean McAbee, Gavin Harris Patterson, Kyle Roberson, Peter Shelton, Evan Valdyke, Wesley Valdyke, Jake Willstatter; and all those who serve this nation in harm’s way.

III. For All who have Died. May their souls and the souls of all the departed rest in peace—Sandy Brown.

IV. In Thanksgiving. For those in our parish celebrating birthdays—Mary Clark Cannington, Anna Orbik, Bob Yearty—and anniversaries

To submit a prayer request, email prayer-request@christ-church.net and let us know if this is for the public prayer list or for our confidential intercessory prayer list. You may also fill out the prayer request form online at our website (found on the Pastoral Care page under “Ministries”). All published prayer requests on this list also go on the confidential intercessory prayer list. Please note that names remain on the prayer list for 4 weeks and on our confidential intercessory prayer list until you ask to be removed. Please resubmit your request if you or a loved one needs to remain on the list. This helps keep our prayers current. Names in bold print indicate new additions to the prayer list.

STAY CONNECTED