by Rev. Roger Jones

[Rev. Roger is on sabbatical leave.  He wrote his monthly Unigram newsletter columns before departing.  If you have questions about the sabbatical, read the Q & A: Our Senior Minister’s Sabbatical.]

In December I’m still writing my thesis for my Doctor of Ministry degree at Pacific School of Religion.

At this very full season, I am missing parties with some of our activity groups and a holiday meal with my staff colleagues.  I’ll miss our choir and wonderful soloists and instrumentalists.  I’ll miss hearing the Nativity Story from the New Testament as amplified and elaborated by UU storyteller Allison.  I also will miss having to leave home early on December 5 so I can take an alternate way to church on the day of the California International Marathon; remember to plan for this.  Fair Oaks Boulevard will be blocked all the way, all morning, so you can’t come from Highway 50.  There is a great reward for the extra effort:  our intern’s morning sermon and fresh, home-made soups after the service.

I will miss the All-Ages Worship Service on Dec. 18 and a glorious Christmas Eve service filled with music, a spiritually nourishing message, a special outreach offering, and the warmth and light of many candles.  It is at 7:00 PM and it is for all ages, with no nursery care (but sound will be piped in the welcome hall for those who are loudly opposed to sitting in the Sanctuary).

Also I will miss being in church with you on Christmas Day!  December 25 doesn’t fall on a Sunday very often, but this is the year it does.  All ages will be together at 10:30:  no nursery staff, no Religious Education program.

There are often many visitors in December and after the start of a new year.  Please watch for them and introduce yourself.  Consider being a Greeter.  It is a wonderful way to be of service once per month.