Soon thereafter, we were into the Thanksgiving Season. We celebrated a great time, honoring our Interim Pastor - Brother Green. Brother Don Green served as the Pastor of Bethel for several years, but in his retirement, returned to the helm as the interim and kept the ship sailing during the transitional period. He was a wonderful blessing to the people of God at Bethel.

We didn't turn around good from Thanksgiving until it was full-scale Christmas. The halls were decked. The parties, and programs were planned. First our Kid's Church Christmas Program, which was a wonderful combined effort from our children, and our young college age folks, and youth department. It was a great production.

Jannise had a period of illness, but God is faithful. She is much better now. Thanks to all those who have prayed, and believed.

Christmas Eve was such a moving, meaningful time together. Our Choir blessed the congregation with both a Christmas number, and other songs. We had Christmas Scripture readings from Matthew 1, Luke 2, and other writings from the prophets of the Old Testament. The service was full of Special Music, and we even had sign language during one piece.

We closed the service with a special Communion Service, and Candlelight singing of Christmas Songs accapella around the altar. It was a moving day together.

Then, last night... our Very Bethel New Year. It was so much fun to get together... eat... sing... share the evening with one another. At 9 p.m., several of our young adults lead in a time of praise and worship, with others from other churches locally. At 10 p.m., despite the driving rain, we sent fireworks skyward in a great display (even though it was a wee bit wet). At 11:30 we gathered in the sanctuary, and sang songs together. At the midnight hour, we prayed, and welcomed 2007 with a new resolve to serve our Master with all our hearts. Hugs ensued...

With the end of 2006 we have a great anticipation for what is in store for us. We know God will do exceeding abundantly above all that we could even ask or think, according to HIS power that works within us.

ANTICIPATE, friends! God is up to something!

# posted by PastorChris @ 4:19 PM