Trinity this week – Advent Hope

Hello Trinity Friends,
This Sunday is the first Sunday in Advent.  We celebrate the start of the season with a special Communion Service.  We light the first candle in our Advent wreath – the candle of Hope.  The Junior Choir will be sharing some music as well.  Following Communion, the children will go downstairs to continue practicing for the pageant!  All children are welcome.
There is still time today to come down to Trinity for the UCW luncheon.  Chili, sandwiches, soup and more!  All are welcome.
This Saturday is the Children’s Only Bazaar at St. Andrew’s United Church.  Children ages 4 – 13 can do their Christmas shopping while parents/caregivers enjoy coffee and treats.  It runs from 10 am to noon.
(We wish you a ) Messy Christmas is this Saturday from 3:30 – 6:30 pm.  Families with children are invited to drop in to enjoy storytime, crafts and activities, followed by a Sloppy Joe dinner.
​Announcements​
​Sunday December 9th is White Gift Sunday.  Please bring your gifts for the Food Shelf, Infant Food Shelf or Christmas Bag Outreach for the Sunday School to collect during worship.  Thanks for supporting these important outreach ministries.
Advent Offering – In the spirit of giving, we invite you to contribute to the Advent Offering.  This year, Advent offerings will go to Sleeping Children Around the World and Packsac Smiles.  Please see your bulletin or check out their websites for more information.  Pill Bottle Banks are available from the ushers.  A suggestion is to set it on your table and during your grace, add money ​to it.  It is a wonderful opportunity to participate in the joy of giving this season!
Looking for a stocking stuffer or a gift for a host/hostess?  The United Church of Canada Calendar is an ideal gift for only $5.  Available from Janice Brownlee after church.
In a world where there is much turmoil and instability we need to be reminded of the promise of Hope.  What do we hope and long for deep in our hearts? What does God hope for us? How can we offer hope to those for whom Christmas is a stressful time?
There is an excellent website called Advent Unwrapped with activities to do at home with your family. An Advent Calendar, prayers, activities and more.  http://www.adventunwrapped.ca/at-home/
May you be a message of hope to those who need it this season and beyond.