Announcement: On Tuesday, December 6, Rev. Steve Goyer tested positive for Covid 19. It is important to note that Steve tested negative this past Sunday afternoon and has not been in the office since Monday.

At this time, Steve is experiencing mild cold-like symptoms and hopes to be leading us in worship this coming Sunday, December 11. Should he not be able, Rev. Annie Franklin Arvin will lead worship in his place.

We pray for a mild case and a swift recovery for our Pastor and friend, Steve. Please feel free to call the office with any questions or concerns at 912-638-2220.

Dear Friends,

Our Advent and Christmas seasons may be filled (maybe over-filled?) with busyness and anticipation and parties and decorating and gift-giving and especially, nostalgia… and, for those who are grieving, great sadness. When our hearts are broken, things and even people that previously seemed so important and brought us joy can feel more like a weight just too heavy to carry. Family, friends, and faith can give us strength through our sorrow, but we each have to find our path through in our own way and time.

Mourning is different for everyone, but we share some things in common. James Russell Lingerfelt describes what happens when we lose people we love: “We mourn un-lived tomorrows. We mourn the loss of people who knew us thoroughly and loved us anyway, and future memories that will never be made.” In days to come, God willing, memories and mementos of those who have died before us may bring comfort, even a smile, and appreciation in our hearts. But the holidays… oh, they can seem to rub salt in our wounds.

Recognizing this reality, the church invites anyone who is hurting (and others, as well) to a service called “The Longest Night” – at 7 pm on Wednesday, December 21^st in the sanctuary. You will be surrounded by music and prayers of comfort and hope and promise. Afterward, there will be coffee and a chance just to talk for those who would like to stick around just a little while longer. We hope you will find a measure of peace in your present darkness.

Know that your church loves you and is praying for you in this season – and always. May God bless you. And may the Prince of Peace bring you peace in knowing that you do not walk this path alone.

In His love,

Pastor Laurie

A Special Request: Your pastors want to provide you with the very best pastoral care. But we need your help! Please let us know when you have a special need or concern – when you have a serious illness – when you enter the hospital or are scheduled for surgery… things like that. We can place your name on the church’s prayer list – or we can keep your situation confidential – your choice.

And our pastoral care team stands ready to help with calls, visits, cards, meals, flowers, muffins, prayer blankets… when these things might be helpful. We also promise not to overwhelm you with “help” you don’t need or desire.

We are here to share the love of Jesus and the encouragement of friends. Thank you for helping us strengthen the Body of Christ at St. Simons Presbyterian.

SERRV SHOP

Located in the Back Hallway

The last Christmas shopping opportunity at our Serrv International shop is December 18 between services and after the 10:30 a.m. service.

As you know this mission effort supports the artisans all over the world who make the items sold. For 70 years this non-profit organization has prioritized artisans and farmers living in poverty, treated with respect and dignity, and paid fairly for their work. They are connecting families and strengthening communities worldwide in 25 countries. St Simons Presbyterian Church has been an artisan partner for many years.

Sunday, December 11

8:30 am Early Worship - Sanctuary

9:30 am Sunday School - Various Locations

9:30 am New Members Session Meeting - Youth Suite

10:30 am Traditional Worship - Sanctuary

1:00 pm PW Planning - John Law

6:00 pm Youth Gathering - Youth Suite

Monday, December 12

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, December 13

7:00 am Youth Chick-fil-a Breakfast - SSI Chick-fil-a

9:30 am Staff Meeting - John Law

10:00 am PW Morning Glories - Upper Room

12:00 pm PW Lunch Bunch - Upper Room

1:00 pm Snowbird Lunch Planning - John Law

4:00 pm PW Ladies of the Night - Upper Room

Wednesday, December 14

9:00 am Pastoral Care Team - John Law

10:00 am Men's Bible Study - Upper Room

4:00 pm Caroling on the Trolley - Meet on Front Steps

4:00 pm Chancel Ensemble - Sanctuary

5:15 pm Early Music - Rhonda's Office

6:15 pm Chancel Choir - Sanctuary

Thursday, December 15

10:00 am Ladies Bible Study - Upper Room

4:30 pm PNC Meeting - Upper Room

Friday, December 16

6:00 pm Live Nativity - Front Lawn

7:00 pm Live Nativity - Front Lawn

7:30 pm Youth Lock-in - Youth Suite

Saturday, December 17

6:00 pm Crossroads Xmas Gathering - Home of Scott & Madelynne Risi