Church Family,
 
Meditation:
 
The rising rates of positive Covid19 tests in our area has brought with it new restrictions and limitations.  This has impacted businesses and families as well as the church.  None of us wanted to return to closed doors and limited gatherings.  Compounding our frustration are the restrictions on family gatherings and travel which have made holiday family gatherings different this year.  These are real losses that impact all of us personally.  In the midst of the frustrations and anxiety, I am praying that God gives us all peace and even joy in the midst of the changes.  Joy?  Yes, God can give us the ability to be joyful even in times of suffering.  This is not a denial of the pain and loss we are experiencing.  Instead, it is a sign of our dependency on God and understanding of our citizenship in Heaven.  Our attitude in these days of high stress may be our best witness to people who are full of anger and fear. 
 
Services:
 
As most of you are aware the Town of Orchard Park is now in the “orange zone” due to the increasing rate of positive Covid19 tests in our area.  This means that our maximum attendance at services and events is 25 people.  We will be moving our Sunday service to ONLINE ONLY until further notice.  Pioneer Girls has paused meetings and CSB has moved their meetings to online only.  Youth Group will continue to meet in person on campus at this time.  Connect groups that want to use the church facility may continue to do so by scheduling through the church office.  Groups that would like to utilize zoom for meetings should email Pastor Dan to set up a zoom option for the group. 
 
Christmas Offering:
 
This year we are looking to raise $1400 to purchase Christmas gifts for the women at Cornerstone Manor (City Mission Homeless shelter for women and children).  There are about 70 women who will benefit from our generosity.  We are purchasing two gifts from the list City Mission provided (coffee/travel mug and body spray). Each item costs around $10.00 each.  We are purchasing the gifts through the office and need your help to cover the cost.  You can give online by selecting the “Christmas Offering” option in Easy Tithe or clearly mark your check or envelope when dropping off or mailing in your support.  Thank you helping us make this Christmas special for the women at Cornerstone. 
 
Pastor Dan