Greetings Topeka First UMC,

Thank you to everyone who made White Gift Sunday such a special day! From the music to the gifts, and the kids and youth bringing them forward, it was a very special day. I appreciate how all of us do our part to extend the love of Christ to those most of need.

Tonight is the night! I hope you will join us from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm for "A Night in Bethlehem." It will be a special night as we will be taken back in time to that night when Jesus was born in a manger. 

Sunday in worship, we are continuing our Advent sermon series as we turn to the Uncondtional Love of God. In the movie Elf, we see again and again that Buddy shows love to so many people. On Sunday, we will see how just as Buddy loves with his whole heart, God loves us no matter what! 

Finally, as we approach the end of the year and start preparing for the new year, there are a number of opportunities to serve your church. I would invite you to sign up to greet or serve communion, or be liturgist (January 11 - March 29 dates are open).

See you Sunday,
Pastor Brad

A Night in Bethlehem is an event for all ages of folks! 

We will start the night by adding your name to the census and then head over to the Bethlehem Clothing Rental Store, to dress up as Mary and Joseph did. (Optional) In Fellowship Hall, you will find the City of Bethlehem., filled with fun for all to enjoy. We will have a food court, crafts, games, and demonstrations from that time. We will have wood cravers, basket weaving as well as a loom to watch how they may have done their craft years ago. Feel free to wander around the city taking in the sights and sounds. Pastor Brad will finish the night by reading the story of the Birth of Jesus.

• Dec. 12, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: A Night in Bethlehem
• Dec. 12, 7:00 pm - Dec. 13, 8:00 am: Youth Christmas Lock-In
• Dec. 14, 12:15 pm: Caring Committee meeting
• Dec. 16, 8:00 am: Men's Group at The Pad
• Dec. 17, 10:00 am: Geneaology Group
• Dec. 17, 11:30 am Community Meal
• Dec. 21, 10:30 am: "The Brass" before the 10:45 am service.
• Dec. 24, 6:00 pm: Family-centered Christmas Eve service led by the Praise Band with special music from our kids
• Dec. 24, 11:00 pm: Traditional Christmas Eve service led by the Choir & Bell Choir in the Sanctuary
• Dec. 28, 10:45 am: One service in the chapel at 10:45 am
• Dec. 29, 11:30 am: Nickel-A-Cup at Perkins 

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