Christmas Traditions…

ourCOG December 22, 2011 12:09 pm Uncategorized 0

Note: This blog was originally posted on December 22, 2011.

The picture posted in the blog is of Joe/Anne Ippolito – two of the most precious and dedicated souls I’ve ever had the privilege to know and serve as pastor. I christened them “St. Joseph” and “St. Anne”. One of the many contributions that they made was playing the part of Mr./Mrs. Santa Claus for the Children’s department each year.

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Good morning!

Alert! Only three more preparing days left before celebrating Jesus’ birthday! Don’t just shop – prepare to celebrate Immanuel (God with us!).

Last night Sonja and I were at a Christmas party and the question was asked, “What traditions do you have at Christmas?” A great question! Might I suggest a couple?

One is that before you open any presents read the Christmas story (I suggest Luke 2:1-20).

The second thing is celebrate Communion.

You do not have to be an experienced or credentialled minister to serve Communion. Here’s what you do…

Have a small cracker or piece of bread for every person that is to participate (you can do this by yourself as well)
Have a cup(s) with grape juice (we Kemps use sparkling grape juice at Christmas to make it a little special, but that’s not necessary).
Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Make any comments you may have about the crackers representing Jesus’ body and then break the cracker/bread and then invite everyone to eat their cracker/bread
Make any comments you may have about the juice representing Jesus’ blood that was shed for the forgiveness of our sins and then invite everyone to drink their juice
End with prayer

I promise, the Holy Spirit will show up and it will make Christmas so very special.

After that? Why open the presents!