Luke Spurgeon

Minister of Youth & Young Adults

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

John 8:12

Thoughts on Christmas

For some of us, me included, the Christmas season can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between shopping for gifts, decorating our homes, and attending Christmas parties, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness of it all. While these things are good, we can easily lose sight of what God has in store for us during this time of year. I like to imagine that we're in a snowstorm. The darkness of night and the constant snowfall make it hard to see. But then, suddenly, a small candle flickers to life in the distance, its warm glow cutting through the darkness. In that moment, we instinctively want to run toward the light, seeking its comfort and warmth. This is the essence of Christmas. The birth of Jesus is that small light that shines brightly in the midst of our darkness. This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, may we remember that He is the light that guides us through our own seasons of darkness, drawing us ever closer to the Father. Let us seek His light during the busyness and challenges of the season, knowing that it will lead us to the true meaning of Christmas. We are invited to run toward Jesus. This Christmas season, how can you draw closer to Jesus? Perhaps it's by giving gifts to a family in need or making the commitment to attend church every Sunday during Advent. Whatever it may be, take time to see what God has in store for you.

A Prayer for the Season

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the light that shines in our darkness. As we celebrate Your birth this Christmas, help us to seek You during our busyness and distractions. May we be drawn to Your light, finding comfort, hope, and guidance in Your presence. Show us how we can be a light to others this season, reflecting Your love in the world around us. In Your name, we pray. Amen.

Sundays at 10:30 a.m., join us in person,

or participate in our live-streamed worship service

on either our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/forrestburdettemumc

or our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/ForrestBurdette/videos

Sunday School classes for all ages begin at 9:15 a.m.

Join the WVUMC Conference Laity as they present an Advent Devotional Series called "The Journey to Christmas."

• Follow the WV UMC Laity Facebook page to view the daily devotions.
• View the devotions online at the WVUMC website. 

The Youth Christmas party will be at Caroline & Julie Harris’s house on December 4th, from 6:00—8:00 p.m. (385 Glen Oaks Ct, Hurricane). We'll be having a white elephant gift exchange, so be sure to bring a wrapped gift with a $15 limit. Plus, get ready for some festive fun with an ugly Christmas sweater contest! We can't wait to see your creative outfits. If you want to ride in the church van, meet at 5:30 p.m. Friends are welcome!

Don’t forget to put the upcoming Children’s Christmas Play on your calendar for this Sunday, December 8, at 6:15 p.m. The kids are working so hard, and the play is going to be so much fun. Dinner will be served at 5:00 p.m. Dinner tickets have sold out; talk to Rita Given if you have a ticket “emergency.” Prepare to sing along with the kids with carols you’ll know, during the play. See you there!

Poinsettias in memory or in honor of loved ones will be placed in the sanctuary for Christmas Eve. Poinsettias may be picked up after Christmas Eve worship, December 24. Click here for the poinsettia order form. You will see that there is an option for giving a monetary gift as well. Forms are due by December 16.

All Angels have been sponsored! Now that the Angels are off the tree, we can decorate the tree with new hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves for people in need as the winter weather continues.

Here are some reminders for those of you who are still shopping for your Angel(s):

• Please return gifts unwrapped and placed in a gift sack or garbage bag to ensure they are kept together. Donations of new rolls of gift wrap are appreciated.
• Securely tape the paper angel to the bag of gifts.
• All gifts must be returned to the church and placed under the Angel Tree by TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024.

Should you have any questions or desire/require further information, please text or call:    

• JoAnn Kennedy, 304-561-7100, or
• Lisa Fawcett, 304-539-2860,
• or email djkennedy@suddenlink.net 

12/2—Karen Hyre, Gary Newman, Becky Williams

12/3—Jane Bogan, Todd Landin

12/4—Keith Bowie, Scott Ransom

12/5—Meghan Fawcett, Geneva McGinnis, J.R. Newman, Michael Sword

12/6—Parker Bowyer, David Russell

12/7—Ellen Bowie, Michele Myers, Steve Powers, Kaven Ransom

12/8—Scott Edwards, Bradley Johnson, Dylan Kimble, Pat Litton, Casey Templeton, Matthew Tidd