“It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open the doors of hope.” This week begins a New Year on the liturgical calendar in Christian Churches. It is therefore fitting that we begin with a period of joyful waiting and expectation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The color purple is dominant during this 4 week period of advent. Purple is the color associated with royalty, demonstrating the anticipation and reception of the coming King celebrated during Advent. The Advent wreath, four candles on a wreath of evergreen, is shaped in a perfect circle to symbolize the eternity of God. During each Sunday of the Advent season, we focus on one of the four virtues Jesus brings us: Hope, Love, Joy and Peace.
THE LAST WEEK OF THE LITURGICAL YEAR Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the LORD is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. PSALM 100
Staff, friends, family, and volunteers will be gathering for the annual Christmas Party at Saint Thomas Church in Oak Ridge. There's still time to get tickets. Don't miss the fun!
Frank Amantea has been named the Employee of the Month for October 2015. This recognition of excellence took place at the Gruenert Center in Lake Hopatcong where Franks serves with love every day.
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. They lift me up in ways that keep my eyes focused on you and make my spirit soar. For food on the table and a roof over my head, I gratefully give thanks for all you have done and for new mercies and blessings each and every day. In your name. AMEN.