Weekly Reflection - 12/21/2022

St. Mary's Reflection: The Rev. David Erickson

Christmas is Nigh!!

You would think that, as a clergy person, Christmas would not take me by surprise. Sure, I have deeply enjoyed celebrating Advent each Sunday morning in the unique and beautiful we do each year. My Christmas shopping, however, is woefully behind schedule! Perhaps I will give Epiphany gifts instead, though I am certain my kids would riot.

And yet, in the midst of some of the last-minute shopping anxiety, there is a strengthening sense of joy and enthusiasm. I find myself singing Christmas tunes and thinking of the wonderful celebration we have coming up on Christmas Eve. Maybe, in some unconscious way, this is the reason I am always “behind” when it comes to present shopping. In a strange and (very) small way it mimics the hurried travel of Joseph and Mary towards Bethlehem. And just like we know the birth of Christ into the world is certain, I bet I can get my shopping done as well!

I hope you are able to join us on Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day as we celebrate the coming of the Christ child into our midst. I also know that many of you travel to see family and friends during these days as well. I hope you find and experience great joy, wonder, and love wherever you are. May this Christmas season warm your heart, fill you with hope, and empower you to continue to be gifts of blessing to the world.

Merry (early) Christmas!

Rev. David

St. Mary the Virgin Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Schedule

Christmas Eve, Saturday Dec. 24

• 2:00 p.m. Christmas Petting Zoo in the Courtyard
• 3:00 p.m. Family Nativity Pageant
• 5:00 p.m. Festival Eucharist for Christmas Eve
• 9:00 p.m. (New Time)

Festival Choral Eucharist

Christmas Day, Sunday Dec. 25

• 10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Carols

First Sunday after Christmas, Sunday Jan. 1

• 10:00 a.m. Congregational Christmas Lessons & Carols