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Friday November 27

Dear Friends,

We begin the season of Advent this Sunday, a time of watching and waiting, of hope-
filled expectation as we look to that day when the Christ who came will come again in
glory. The Psalmist’s words are ours as well: “And now, O Lord, what do I wait for? My
hope is in you.” (Psalm 39:7) In Sunday’s text from the gospel of Mark, we hear our
Lord urge us, “Keep awake” as we look to that day when the One who was born in a
stable so long ago will come again.

We can look ahead with hope, even as we are hear the words, Code Yellow, Code
Orange, Code Red; even as new pandemic restrictions are imposed upon us. All the
news regarding the development of vaccines gives us hope that by this time next year
we will have put the scourge of the coronavirus behind us.

So, begin your Advent with hope, and even joy as you get out the Christmas
decorations – the lights, the garlands, and the ornaments. Let the joy of the season lift
you as you sing your favorite carols.

If you set up an Advent wreath at home, here is a prayer for you to use as you light the
first candle: “Eternal God, we wait with hearts filled with hope for that day when our Lord
Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, will come to make all things new, all things perfect in
your everlasting kingdom. Help us to see in our service as disciples a glimpse of the
kingdom, as we wait for Christ’s coming with patience and hope. As Jesus once came in
humility, may he come again in glory. O Come, O Come Emmanuel! Amen”.

And if you would like a bit of music to accompany your candle-lighting, here is a lovely
hymn, the Advent Candle, from the British composer Bob Chilcott, that will set just the
right mood, a mood of hope and joy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI1zmUK_z5A

Keep wearing your mask, keep your distance, and wash your hands. And, don’t forget
to get your flu shot. Stay healthy.

Grace & peace,
Pastor Skip

The CE Ministry Team presents an

Advent Study for adults beginning November 29th.

Sunday mornings at 9:30 am via Zoom

Discussion led by Dave Brummer

Click here to join the discussion

For more information contact Dave Brummer:
email: dbrummer@opvmc.net

call: 716-662-2406

OPPC Zoom Coffee Hour

Click on the Coffee Cup to join the Coffee Hour
at 10:30 am Sunday mornings.