My Church Family

It’s getting colder. Have you noticed? Chilly fall mornings are dipping into the low 30s. It isn’t here yet, but it's coming…winter. For some, the season brings the excitement of skiing, sledding and all manner of outdoor activities. And it's beautiful, without question. I think of my husband or Lonnie Brown who are happiest when the snow is falling and giddy over a hint of winter in the air. I envy people who love winter. For those of us non-winter people, it can be bleak and isolating, months of cold fingers and toes. Many suffer with seasonal depressive disorder – the doldrums that are all too common during shorter days with less sunshine.

For me, the “cold feet” of impending winter is balanced with the anticipation of the holidays. I love the contemplative nature of Advent and the celebration of the birth of Christ. I love the sparkling lights and decorations. I love the traditions that my little family have embraced – a mix of my husband’s Scandinavian traditions and my own family’s English ones. (Think Swedish meatballs and Yorkshire Pudding).

But I know that for many the holidays can be tough. Memories of loved ones who are no longer with them, or families scattered by distance and conflict and hurt. And there is pressure to be joyful during the holidays – to put on a happy face even if you don’t feel it.

This is the time of year when I am more grateful than ever for my church family – all of you. When I feel like celebrating, you are here for me. When I slip into the winter blues, you are here for me. I’m not alone. And you are not alone. That is where we shine – showing up for one another in the good and the bad times.

But I realize in our not-quite-post-Covid world, we may need to remind you that we are here. We're here if you want to carve pumpkins or decorate Christmas cookies with friends. We're also here if you need an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on – or if you want to provide that ear or that shoulder to others. If you have been involved in Stephen Ministry or other pastoral care programs in the past, or if you think you may be called to this care, join us after church on Sunday, November 21 as we talk about growing this ministry.

Love, Mary