During this Advent and Christmas Season we prepare to celebrate the birth of God's Son, who was given the name “Jesus.” That is a Hebrew name and it means “Yahweh Saves.” Yahweh, of course, is the Hebrew name of God. In our English Bibles it is often translated as LORD in the Old Testament.

Our midweek Advent Services will follow the theme “His Name Shall be Called.” This phrase comes from the 9th chapter of the prophet Isaiah. This chapter is one of the main prophecies about God's son coming in the flesh. In this chapter we learn of various titles that are applied to Jesus. Each of these titles describe something about Jesus' person or His work—who He is, and what He has done for our salvation.

There are four titles given about Jesus in Isaiah 9:6. They are: “Wonderful Counselor,” “Mighty God,” “Everlasting Father,” and “Prince of Peace.” Our congregation is named after this last title. And so it was very meaningful for the founders of our church, as it remains for us.

As you prepare for the business of the season, shopping and getting reading for family functions, take time to rest as well. Rest in the Word of God—the reason for all our celebration: God came into our World as a baby.

So, come to our midweek Advent Services on Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. They are December 5, 12 and 19. These will be Evening Prayer Services, and so there will be no Communion served at them.

This time of year is also a good time to invite any of your friends or family who have gotten out of the habit of attending God's Services. Or, some may not know the real reason why Christmas is so important! Opportunities for Christians to speak of Christ are especially numerous this time of year.

Before each midweek service we will also have a “simple supper.” These start at 5:15 p.m. It's a great time for fellowship and a night off, a rest, from cooking for yourself. Again, friends of yours will be welcomed!

Christmas Eve service will be “Lessons and Carols” on December 24th at 6:30 p.m.

Christ mas Day Service, Wednesday the 25th, will be at 9 a.m. with the Lord's Supper. There will be no Thursday evening service, however, on December 26th.

As we all prepare for this season, celebrating and worshiping the “Prince of Peace,” let this 

simple prayer be ours: Dear Jesus, thank You for bringing peace to earth through Your birth, death, and resurrection. Help us prepare for the day when You come back and bring peace to earth forever.

In Your name, the God of our salvation, we pray