Nokesville Church of the Brethren

November 2023 Newsletter

PASTOR’S PONDERINGS

Most importantly, love each other deeply. Love has a way of not looking at others’ sins. Open your homes to each other, without complaining. -1 Peter 4:8-10 (ICB)

We’ve just turned the page on our calendars, and holidays are just around the corner. If you’re like my family, discussions are in full swing about who’s going where and what time these gatherings will happen. In the most recent years, we’re unable to be with one another for some of these celebrations.

For most of my life, our Thanksgiving was held at my late parents’ home. Thanksgiving was the day we celebrated together since we had such a large extended family. Sadly, though, I’m reminded of many conversations behind the scenes where a few would grumble about some others. Admittedly, I was part of some of those grumblings. Why couldn’t they make us the priority and be there? Why couldn’t they get there the night before to set up tables and chairs or the minimum of 30 people in attendance?

As the years went by, family members gradually took over, bringing all the food so that my parents, in their older age, could just enjoy their loved ones. When dinner was over, it seemed there were a few who always ended up doing the dishes, and some who seemed to always escape that chore. It, too, became an excuse to grumble. Looking back, in my immaturity, I spent too much energy in a few of those conversations. I long to have a do-over of the holiday. To open my heart with loving hospitality minus the temptation of grumbling.

As we get closer to the holiday season, I encourage you to be mindful of when you may be complaining or grumbling. In that moment, offer thanks for those people in your life. Offer thanks for the love God shows no matter what.

The home of godly hospitality begins in our hearts. Give thanks for the opportunity to see the Spirit at work in you and for others. Be like Jesus and love deeply.

With gratitude for all of you,

Pastor Janet

SERVICE & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

CONGREGATIONAL LIFE

Thank you to everyone who supported Trunk or Treat! We appreciate everyone who donated their time, candy, and materials for the event. Thank you to Kelsey Southard for organizing the fun event!

Christmas Craft Night: November 26^th:We are entering the Christmas season and will begin with our traditional Christmas Craft Night followed by the lighting of the Chrismon Tree. Join us for an evening of crafting, fellowship, and joy as we welcome in the Christmas Season. If you are interested in hosting a craft table, please let Pam Breslin or someone on the Congregational Life Ministry Team know. We can help you plan a craft if you would like to host a table but need some ideas.

We continue to organize Sunday morning coffee hours weekly. Thank you to everyone who shared breakfast with the congregation in October. Please consider bringing breakfast items to share during this time of fellowship. Don’t forget to bring your own mug to help us reduce our weekly waste.

FLOWER SHARING

We have created a Signup Genius so you can order flowers online. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090E4EABAE29A4F94-2023

Your offerings can be made through our website. https://www.continuetogive.com/ncobbudget

SERVING NOVEMBER 2023

Nov. 5

Nov.12

Nov. 19

Nov. 26

Worship Leader

Youth

Bev Slabaugh

Charlotte Bear

Ben Bear

Acolyte

Dianne Nelson

Gryphon & Jessica Brockett

Carter Diethorn & Parent

Marlyn McClure

Children’s Story

Youth

Clara Nelson

Pam Flory

TBD

Nursery

Pam Breslin

Jackie Bear

Carrie Diethorn

Megan Nelson

Katlyn Keesler

Lyn Ficili

Melanie Ali

Jessica Brockett

Pianist

Suzie Evans

Organist

Mary Weybright

Hymn Leader

Jeannette Funkhouser

Flowers are given to the glory of God by

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Coffee Fellowship 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

Pastor Janet’s Office Hours

Tues – Fri

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

jcmyers2@outlook.com