Greetings,

Yes, it’s that season again. As we move through early December, the days grow shorter, the sun sets earlier and the air gets colder. The peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains are blanketed in snow and Yosemite Valley greets us with crisp, frosty mornings. We are entering a season of expectation and preparation as we look forward to celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

In this season, I encourage each of us to find new and meaningful ways to prepare our hearts for Christmas. Sometimes, it’s as simple as enjoying a quiet drive beneath the moonlight, with the warmth of Christmas lights shining along Highway 120 and through Groveland. The glow of those lights reminds us of the hope and new life brought by the birth of God’s Son. As Scripture says: All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”) Matthew 1:22-23, NIV.

At Gateway Community Church, we have several special gatherings to help us prepare and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Join us for a Christmas concert with the Pine Cone Singers on Friday, December 13th, at 7:00 pm, or on Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th, at 2:00 pm. Then, on Wednesday, December 18th, from 5–7 pm, we welcome everyone to a community meal and Christmas caroling in our Fellowship Hall. On Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24th, at 4:00 pm, we’ll gather for a Candlelight Christmas Eve worship service with music, scripture, and a message celebrating the joy of our Savior’s birth. All are welcome to join us as we spend this month reflecting the light and love of Christ.

Remember, Christmas begins with Christ. May this season be filled with His peace and joy. May you always feel invited to join us – or any of our Groveland Christian churches – in worship. Let’s make this a season of glowing in the message of Christmas.

In Christ Service
Pastor Bob Kandels