Dear Church Family,

  There are so many Christmas activities that are coming in the next few weeks that will get us ready for this special season!

- All Church Christmas Party -  Sunday, December 8th, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Come for a good meal, fun activities, Christmas photos and friendship! We have a good sign-up, but we'd like to have more of you to come join us!
- Christmas Caroling on Wednesday, December 11th at 3:45. Come join us for our annual Christmas Caroling as we bless those in assisted living and some friends close to church. It is always received with the joy of the season!
- Offerings of Thanks for the Blessings in 2024 and Vision for ministry in 2025.  Please consider giving a little extra if you are able,  and give Him thanks for all He's done for you and to advance ministry both now and throughout 2025!  We have been able to add some staff and support more missionaries than in the past thanks to your generosity!  There are no special envelopes for these gifts and offerings.
- M & M Offering in December is for Retired Ministers and Missionaries from the American Baptists who are in need of assistance. You can give through the offering envelopes in the bulletin this week or put your donation in the box at the FBC Christmas Card Post Office in the Gathering Hall just outside of the sanctuary. It is the table with the red tablecloth.
- FBC Christmas Card Post Office is in the Gathering Hall and everyone is invited to send Christmas greetings to each other while donating money for the M&M offering.  There is a list of the names of First Baptist people on that table that you can have to help you with your Christmas cards.
- Sunday, December 15th there will be a Christmas concert at 2:00 p.m. with the excellent pianist Julie McClarey. The senior ministries are inviting everyone to join them. There will be a free-will offering for Julie at the concert here at First Baptist.
- Sunday, December 22nd we will be hosting the First Baptist Children's Christmas Pageant called Scuba Christmas at our 9:30 worship service.  Be sure to join us to listen to Christmas music and to cheer on the children.
- Lastly, I hope you all can join us for our traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service on December 24 at 4:00 p.m.
Be sure to invite someone to Christmas Eve or our December Advent Services at 9:30 on Sundays!
It is a joy for Pam and me to be with you all for our third Christmas here at First Baptist in Decatur!
Joy to the world!
Pastor Chris