One time there was a pastor who went to his church on Christmas morning to make sure everything had been cleaned and put away after the midnight Christmas Eve service. There were a few bulletins stuck in hymnals and he spotted some candle wax under the pews. The church was cold since the heat had been turned off following the service. Before he left the sanctuary he paused beside the life-sized nativity scene in the front yard.

Suddenly he realized the manger was empty. Baby Jesus was missing. The pastor searched the area but could not find the infant savior anyplace. He determined that someone must have stolen the infant Jesus from the manger.

The pastor was disappointed to think that someone would commit such a terrible crime against the church. How could Christmas be Christmas without the babe lying in a manger?

Worshippers began to gather for the Christmas morning service. During his announcements the pastor said, "The figure of the Christ Child must be returned before the end of the day or Christmas will not be as it should. If anyone knows of its whereabouts and sees that it is returned, no questions will be asked." But the manger remained empty the rest of the day.

Later that day, discouraged and heavy-hearted, the pastor took a walk through the streets of the little town. He came upon one of his young members of his church, a six-year-old boy, named Tommy. Tommy was bundled up, protecting himself against the cold weather. He was proudly pulling a red toy express wagon behind him. It was bright and shiny, probably a Christmas present. The pastor knew his family was poor so his parents must have made a tremendous sacrifice to give Tommy a wagon for Christmas.

As the pastor got closer to Tommy he noticed a bundle in the wagon. Not totally hidden in the blanket was the baby Jesus from the nativity in the church. The pastor crouched down beside Tommy. His face was grim and filled with disappointment. Tommy was just a little boy, but the pastor felt he was old enough to know that stealing was wrong. The pastor made it clear that Tommy had committed a crime and as he spoke Tommy eyes began to fill with tears.

Finally Tommy spoke. "But pastor, I didn’t steal baby Jesus. It wasn’t like that at all." Tommy paused to swallow and wipe away a few tears. "I’ve been asking Jesus for a red wagon for the last three years, and I promised him when I received it, I would give him the first ride."

Little Tommy’s heart was definitely in the right place. This story reminds me that not everyone is committed to riding with Jesus during the Christmas season.

What does it mean to be pulling Jesus along with us during the Christmas season? For me it means being in worship. The messages of God’s presence can give us reassurance during the cold, winter month of December and during a financial meltdown.

It also means experiencing the joy of giving. Not just giving presents to family and friends, but giving help to those who have need and giving to your church that helps to spread the love and word of God.

It also means appreciating the fact that just as God intervened with the gift of Christ, God also intervenes in our lives and showers us with grace and peace.

The next time you pass by a nativity, remember little Tommy. He gave Jesus the ride of his life. Come to church this Christmas season. Allow God to pull you in a new direction. Enjoy the fellowship of your brothers and sisters who ride through life with you. Remember the reason for the season.
Peace and Blessings! Dr. Keith Wagner

Council Briefs
Dr. Wagner is one of two ministers elected from the Association to attend General Synod on June 26-30, 2009.

General satisfaction all around concerning the events of Hog Roast Sunday. The White Elephant Auction proceeds of $400.00 went into the council discretionary fund.

Elevator repair is needed. Hydraulic fluid is leaking around the cylinder.

Two students from JVS have been interviewed for the position of nursery attendant.

The proposed budget for 2009, proposed changes to the Constitution by-laws, and the meeting agenda will be sent to members of the congregation prior to the annual congregational meeting on January 25th. Any reports for the annual report need to be submitted to Darlene Molitor by January 15th.

The Christmas Youth Committee will host a Christmas party for children on December 7 between 4 and 6 p.m. Games, door prizes, and other activities will take place.

Treasurer’s Report
Income - $14,852.15
Expenses - $13,788.62
Kent Smith, Recording Secretary

Decorating for Christmas
Please help us “Deck the Halls of St. Paul’s” with Christmas Decorations on Saturday, November 29. Join the fellowship and fun as we beautify our church for this very special season. Doors will open at 9:00 a.m. so come when you can and come hungry. Refreshments will be served.
Your Worship Deacon, Jenny Coverstone

Interested in Church Membership?
Some people have asked me, “Why would do I need to be a member of the Church?” It’s a fair question. Granted, one does not have to be a member to attend St. Paul’s Church or participate in any of our activities. Neither does church membership guarantee faith or eternal life.

Church membership provides a person with several benefits. First, members get to vote on the official business and policies of the church. Second, members can hold an office in the church. Third, membership in the United Church of Christ is necessary in order for a person to become ordained.

When a person becomes a member of a church they make a public statement that they are committed to the church. It also means they are sharing in the responsibility and mission, in other words, they have ownership of what the congregation (and the denomination) stand for.

For me, being a church member means a person is willing to be part of the team. They are willing to share in both the joy and burdens of congregational life. Being a member of the church also creates a permanent record in the church’s history. More importantly, church members are actively involved in the search and call of pastors.

If you are not currently a member of St. Paul’s Church, I hope you will at least think about it. If you are interested, please let me know.
Dr. Keith Wagner

Thanks
I would like to htank everyone for their prayers, cards and food for Charlie Leonard’s memorial service and also for everyone that attended the service. It was amazing to see the amount of people there and also thanks for contributing to Charlie’s memorial.
Mary Leonard, Angie & Bill Menges and Shelbie,Cheryl Madison, Brandon Schaffner, Nicole Frantom and Kendall and Tessa.

Commitment Sunday Update
Thanks to those who have already turned in their commitment forms. To date we have a total of $81,650.00 in pledges for the year 2009. The budget for 2009 is $209,600.00

It is our hope that EVERYONE will make a commitment toward the ministry and mission of St. Paul’s Church for next year and we would especially like to know how you are able to serve the church with your talents as well.

If you have not done so, please fill out a commitment form and turn it into the church office. It helps us do our duty as the church's Financial Deacons, and it also helps the other Deacons to perform their duties easier too.
Thank you, Finance Committee

The Christmas Fund
Have you ever experienced the feeling that you were faced with an insurmountable problem? Then—unexpectedly—someone, some organization, even a vague memory of a possible way out of the problem came to you. What a relief! What a blessing!

Emergencies can come at any time. Retirees on small pensions or without a pension altogether are in need of ongoing assistance. The disabled with no expectations of growth in earning power are, nevertheless, able to cope, with your help.

The Board of Ministerial Assistance was enabled by your contributions to the Christmas Fund to bring relief from painful stress.

Please share some of your blessings with the “Veterans of the Cross” by contributing generously to the Christmas Fund. An envelope is included with this newsletter or you can pick up an envelope at the Hospitality Desk.

Bake Sale – December 7
On December 7th during coffee hour, there will be a bake sale. Remember that everyone is free to bring in their own food creations to sell. The only rules are that you price your items to an even dollar amount and take your products home if they don’t sell. All proceeds will go to help a needy family.
Kent Smith

A Day Worth Revisiting
Many years ago on a day at the beginning of a new year, several St. Paul’s members gathered together at a neutral location here in Sidney for a church retreat. Besides the usual tables and chairs, the room filled with pens, magic markers, poster board, blank chart paper, and lots of coffee.

The group assembled was on a mission. The goal at the end of the day was to form a small number of objectives that could be attained by the church in a year’s time.

The needs of the church were given broad categories (stewardship, youth, music, building, etc.). The group then brainstormed ideas that could be listed under each category. Each member then rated the importance of each idea by giving it a number. The results were posted. Those ideas surfacing as high priority were discussed at length. Consensus was reached concerning what one or two items would be worked on during the course of the year and specific details of plans were outlined.

Except for a break for lunch consisting of a meat and cheese tray and all that goes with it, the group of people did not depart physically or mentally from the room or the purpose at hand. There was camaraderie, there was focus, and most importantly, there was a spirit of intentionality. Members were determined, with the aid of the congregation, to actively complete the goals chosen.

Because of the success realized that first year, the church retreat was repeated the following year at a different location with equal success.
Submitted by Kent Smith

Mary Esther Circle
The Mary Esther Circle will meet for our Christmas covered-dish dinner on Wednesday, December 10th at 12 noon in the Fellowship Hall with a program to follow. Bring two gifts. Marie Russell, Leader

Staff Stockings
There are stockings for each of the church staff members located on the bulletin board in the outer Narthex. Please use them to show your appreciation for Jennifer, Jerry, Amanda, Tiffany, Wes, Darlene and Keith.
Last Minute Contributions
Just a reminder that any checks received January 1st or later cannot be counted as a gift for 2008 even if the check is dated December 31st. The general rule is that it must either be in the church office by December 31st or it must be mailed to the church with a postmark of December 31st or before.

Food Collection
In mid November the Department of Agriculture reported that one in eight Americans struggled to feed themselves adequately in the year 2007. This was before the recent economic crisis. Approximately 691,000 children received less than a substantial amount of daily food last year.

Here in Shelby County we are seeing an increase in the number of families who need food. We receive calls almost daily.

To help the hungry in our area I am requesting that everyone bring food items to the church this winter. Simply place them in the containers by the West entrance.
Thanks for your help! Dr. Keith Wagner

Youth Christmas Party - Youth of All Ages!
You are invited to the St. Paul’s Christmas Party on Sunday, December 7 in the fellowship hall from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. There will be games, cookie decorating, Christmas carols, gift drawings, and a surprise appearance from a special guest. Bring a friend! Please sign the sheet at the Hospitality desk if you are planning to attend!
(Sponsored by the Christian Youth Committee)

From the Pastoral Relations Committee
With the holidays approaching, we think about the staff – and how we can show our appreciation.

However, we should encourage them year round. Remember, Sunday mornings is the time for worship. If you have any church business, please wait until after the service or call the church office during the week.
Thanks for you cooperation - Pastoral Relations Committee

Order Blank for Poinsettias

In honor of

In memory of

Will pick up For shut in

Amount enclosed

Name

The poinsettias will have 5-7 blooms per plant and the cost is $7.00. Make checks payable to "St. Paul's Flower Fund". Deadline for ordering is Monday, December 15th but we would like order as soon as possible so we can get the best selection. The poinsettias can be taken home after the Christmas Eve service.

Christmas Tree
Legend says St. Boniface cut down an oak tree sacred to the pagans on Christmas Eve. Instead, he offered them a young fir tree as a symbol of Christian faith.

Historically, some say the Christmas tree is an outgrowth of the Paradise tree. In religious plays depicting of story of Adam and Eve, apples hung from a fir tree representing paradise. Fir trees found their way into homes after the plays were banned. Pastry ornaments in various shapes later were added to the apples.

Others derive the Christmas tree from the Yule tree. A small evergreen tree was placed in homes at Yule time as reassurance that nature’s life was still alive under winter’s ice and snow. It was not decorated and had no pagan or religious connotations.

Fir trees trimmed with apples, sweets, and paper roses were found in German homes in the 16th century. Candles were not used on the trees, though, until the 17th century.

Christmas trees proliferated after the 1840 marriage of Queen Victoria to Albert, a German. It was Albert who introduced Christmas trees to England. The decoration quickly spread through Western Europe. Common folks used simple, natural decorations, while the affluent added candles and glittering ornaments.

The influence of the British crown, combined with German immigrants, transplanted the custom to America.

December Birthdays
1 Ken Alexander
2 Debi Wood
4 Kevin Meyer
5 Bayle Pennycuff
7 Mandy Beatty
8 Scott Meyers, Jarrett Yinger
11 Mary Morrison, Brianna Wagner
12 Forrest Rose
13 Mike Stewart, Riley Pollard
14 Eleanor Henman, Daniel Stewart
15 Chad McClain
16 Rob Russell
17 Taylor Thompson, Emma Kemp, David Holthaus, Danielle Holthaus
18 Meggan Weaver, Chris Rossman, Jordan Kidd
19 Ronald Wiford, Joshua Sloan
21 Dale Peterson, Keith Wagner, Deb Hollenbacher
22 David Neville
23 Robert Davis, Michael Seeger
25 Tina Meyers
26 Karen Mroz, Chris Neth
27 Kurt Beatty, Macy Boeke
28 Mike Hiler, Jeff Goins
29 Josh Stewart
31 Megan Mummey

Happy Anniversary
4 Bette & Jim Brentlinger
5 Julie & Rick Maurer
7 Cheryl & Chris Gallimore, Kathy & Kevin Britt
8 Carly & Todd Wagner
15 Debbie & Gary Pitts
22 Lisa & Jon Geuy


New Babies
Brooklyn Mae Cruse was born on October 29, 2008. She is the daughter of Greg & Erica Cruse.

Kelsi Ann Hiler was born on November 17, 2008. She is the daughter of Melinda & Mike Hiler.

Congratulations to both families!

Crimson Belles
The Crimson Belles are alive and growing. We would like to welcome Mary Schmidt to our group of fun loving ladies. In November we had lunch at Charlie Browns in Anna. The food was very good and the fellowship was wonderful. Everyone that attended had a great time.

At the end of October we had a fun time at the Senior Centers Red Hat Pajama Party and Brunch. It was a lot of fun and interesting too. We Learned about gem stones from Allison's Jewelers. Trying on rings and bracelets worth upwards to $3,000 wasn't bad either.

On December 3rd we will be going to The Veranda in Jackson Center, so ladies I need to know how many are going. Call your Queen! Ramblin' Ruby has been on the go again and is eager to tell her story She has met Priscilla, a traveling golden retriever, (rescued from a toy box) and an Eastern Star.

On Thursday, December 11th we will be having our Christmas Party. This year our hostess is Mary Leonard. We will be having a carry-in dinner. We will also be having a $10.00 gift exchange for all who wish to participate.
Joyfully yours, Queen Judy

Halloween Party
The Halloween party was a great success with approximately 20 children in attendance. They enjoyed pizza, cookies, games, stories, a costume contest and crafts. Thanks to Jerika & Sherri Martens, Dawn Wiford, Lisa Heaton and Gina Skorupski who helped with the party.
Mary Ann Yinger

Offering Envelopes
The 2009 offering envelopes are available in the south hallway. If you cannot find your envelopes, please call the church office (492-8540).

Worship Services for December
USHERS for the month are: Frank Neville, Jim Brentlinger, Dennis Clayton, Barbara Neville, David Neville, Johnathon Neville, and David Kemp.

December 7
Sermon – “Good News for Difficult Times”
Isaiah 40:1-11
Worship Leader – Chuck Wood
Greeters – Doris & Jerry Coverstone
Children’s Message – Meggan Weaver
Children’s Church – Nikki Adams & Sherri Overholser

Coffee Hour Sponsors
Nikki & Brian Adams, Pat Brown, Barbara & Frank Neville, Summer Neville, Nancy Rossman, Jane & Dale Peterson, and Brenda & Tom Thompson.

December 14
Sermon – “Never Ending Mercy”
Luke 1:47-55
Worship Leader – Althea Clayton
Greeters – Ann & Bob Spillers
Children’s Message – Angie Mentges
Children’s Church – Julie Maurer

December 21
Choir Cantata – “ A Simple Christmas
Worship Leader – Lisa Heaton
Greeters – Barb & Dale Shoemaker

December 24 – Christmas Eve Service
Sermon – “The Christmas Presence”
- Luke 2:1-20
Worship Leader – Dale Peterson
Greeters – Barbara & Frank Neville
Children’s Message – Keith Wagner

December 28
Rev. Al Marheine, guest minister – Matt. 2:1-12
Worship Leader – Jenny Coverstone with Alex Climer
Greeters – Bette & Jim Brentlinger
Children’s Message – Kent Smith
Children’s Church – Mary Ann Yinger

Hospitalized
Rob Russell, Lima Memorial Hospital
Janet Schumann, Lima Memorial Hospital
Thelma Thompson, Good Samaritan Hospital

Attendance and Offerings
Nov. 2- 154- $2,705.00
Nov. 9- 129- $2,858.53
Nov. 16- 130- $2,190.55
Nov. 23- 146- $2,791.18

Advent Wreath
This year the confirmation class will be lighting the candles during the worship services.

1st Sunday Advent - Hope
Eric Barnes & Michael Wampler

2nd Sunday Advent - Peace
Michael Wampler & Elizabeth Dietz

3rd Sunday Advent - Joy
Eric Barnes & Elizabeth Dietz

4th Sunday Advent - Love
Kelsey Rossman & Shelbie Anderson

Christmas Eve
Kelsey Rossman & Shelbie Anderson

Thank You!
What a wonderful family we have here at the Church on the Hill. I have felt so loved and taken care of as so many of you have sent cards with encouraging messages and called to see how I was doing. Then there was the group organized by Marilyn Young who brought delicious prepared meals. Flowers arrived and even gift cards so we could eat out. There were the many visits from the pastor that always cheered me up. How can I thank all of you? I will be there for you when you need a friend, you can count on it. I now know how much it means. Barb Neer

Calendar - December

3 - 6:30pm - choir practice - confirmation
3 - 7:30pm - cantata practice

4 - 11:00am - bible study

6 - 1:00pm - Gold family Christmas

7 - 7:30am - WMVR
7 - 9:00am - sunday school
7 - 10:15 am - worship
7 - 4:00pm - Youth Christmas Party

8 - 7:00pm - Church Council - Wagner's

10 - 12:00noon - Mary Esther Circle
10 - 6:30pm - choir practice - confirmation
10 - 7:30pm - cantata practice

11 - 11:00am - bible study
11 - 6:30pm - Crimson Belles

14 - 7:30am - WMVR
14 - 9:00am - sunday school
14 - 10:15am - worship

17 - 7:00pm - cantata practice

18 - 11:00am - bible study

21 - 7:30am - WMVR
21 - 10:15am - worship

24 - 7:30pm - Christmas Eve Worship Service

28 - 7:30am - WMVR
28 - 10:15am - worship