Isaiah 35:1-10
Psalm 146:5-10
James 5:7-10
Matthew 11:2-11
Pastor Steve Holm
Dear Friends,
One of the things that drew Cherie and me to Esperanza seven years ago, in addition to Pastor Steve’s stimulating sermons, was the amazing choir that we heard regularly at the 8:30 worship service we attended. What a blessing they are! Not only do the members have exceptional voices, the highly skilled director, Robin Neely, coaxes excellence from them without fail. To hear them sing is definitely worth the price of admission!
The third Sunday in Advent, also known as “pink candle Sunday,” is a time to reflect on the joy that is ours in Christ Jesus, and this year it will be packed with joy for all of us. Not only will you not have to listen to me, you’ll hear the choir at their best as they perform their annual Christmas cantata while accompanied by a six piece chamber orchestra. Because it’s a special occasion, and to save the vocalist’s voices, we’ll be combining the 8:30 and 10:30 services into one and meeting at 9:30 a.m. I have a feeling you’ll definitely want to get there a bit early as it’s likely to be a sell-out!
And while you’re checking your calendar, don’t forget the Blue Christmas service at 7:00 p.m. on December 18. This is the fourth time Esperanza has offered the community this opportunity and I know I’ve attended the first three. I’ll be there again this time and am looking forward to the blessing it provides for those of us feeling a bit of sadness during the holiday season. I know I’ll be thinking about Pastor Steve’s absence–and I won’t be the only one!. Losses are magnified in moments of celebration and it’s good to have time and a place to reflect on the myriad of feelings that loss of any kind can bring.
Thanks again for the opportunity of serving you during these months.
Blessings,
Steve