PSWR Disciples,
We’ve entered this Advent season, expecting, hoping and observing many time-honored traditions to mark the coming of the light for this world. In some of our Spanish-speaking congregations, “Posadas” are practiced; It is the reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s seeking shelter until all might find a home that will host everyone to celebrate. In many of our English-speaking congregations, the advent wreath and candle lights might be seen. A weekly lit candle for hope, faith, joy, peace and the Christ candle to remember Christmas. In most all of our congregations, caroling events can be heard and joyfully experienced. In these and many more ways, we remember to make visible our great light in the darkest places of our world.
This season, Rev. Terri Hord Owens, Our General Minister and President reminds us:
“that nothing can separate us from God’s love, but that we are called to act, that we are called to be visible in the world for justice, for hope and for peace.”
Please enjoy the fullness of her Advent Message:
https://disciples.org/from-the-gmp/general-minister-and-president-offers-advent-greeting/
In my first 75 days as your Regional Minister, I have traveled from Canada to Southern California and Tijuana, Mexico, meeting committees, congregations, with clergy in district meetings, and have begun making preparations for visits to Las Vegas and Hawaii. Please know, I am already in awe of how our congregations are making Christ visible in the midst of the PSWR. In this new beginning, there is so much I look forward to share with you. Whether you remember Christ by finding shelter for others, or by bringing light to the darkest places. We are called to keep breaking bread and responding to this world’s needs. We will continue to do so because we have “a future with hope.” I’m thankful for you!
Have a Wonderful Advent and a Merry Christmas, PSWR.
With Light and Hope,
Richie