Women's Equip - December 22, 2011

Dear sisters in Christ,

Merry Christmas!  It’s been a wild crazy week but such a blessing as I’ve seen firsthand the incredible generosity of God’s people here at Central.  I wish I could share with you the heart-warming stories from both givers and receivers of the many Christmas giving opportunities here at Central.  Know this body of Christ has been a tangible expression of the love of Christ to hundreds this Advent season.  Bless you!!!

I do hope to see you at one of our Christmas services this week-end: Christmas Eve 2, 3:30, 5, 7:30 and 11 and Christmas Day, 10:00 a.m. It is such a thrill to gather together to hear the familiar story with fresh ears and experience the magic of Christmas through the music and community.  Remember most people come to faith on the arms of a friend, so invite your neighbors and family to worship with you!

While celebrating the holiday season I’m also anticipating a couple of fabulous events in January.  I hope you’ll participate in at least a couple spiritual growth opportunities.  Gift yourself this Christmas with one of these:

Epiphany Dinner Celebration
Come together Friday, January 6, 6 PM, for dinner and to hear Dr. Gemechis Buba challenge us for the new year.  He is a dynamic preacher and you’ll come away inspired and motivated!  Please RSVP the church office with your participation.

Focused Living Workshop
Take the opportunity at the start of the new year to look back on the people, events and circumstances in your life that God has used to bring you to where you are now.  Consider how and where God has been at work as you anticipate the future.  Join Pastor Jeff and Pastor Sonja on Monday, January 16^th, 9 a.m.-4 PM in the student room here at Central.  It will be well worth a vacation day!  Register in the church office by Wednesday, January 11^th.  Cost is $5 and includes supplies and lunch.  If you want maximum benefit, purchase the book “Stuck” by Terry Walling and journal through it before the workshop.  Book copies are for sale in the church office for $12 and can also be ordered the day of the workshop.  Pre-registration is required for the Focused Living Workshop.

MLK Benefit Concert Featuring Tonia Hughes
Central is hosting a benefit concert for DIVINE Institute, our metro-mission supporting the education of inner-city kids, on Sunday, January 15^th.  Guest recording artist and actress, Tonia Hughes, most recently seen as the Fairy Godmother in the Ordway’s production of Cinderella: The Glass Slipper, will present worship songs as well as songs from her latest release, I’m Ready Now. Come for supper, serving begins at 5:15, and meet some of the children and families that were part of DIVINE Institute this summer.  The worship concert begins at 6:00 PM.  Matching funds will be added to your free will offerings for the supper, the concert, and a silent auction.

In addition, Financial Peace University, Alpha, and a parenting course called The Family God Uses will be launching in January.  Prayerfully consider!

I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness…John 8:12.  Praying you experience the light that conquers darkness!  May His light shine in your life this Christmas season!

Have a “mary” one~

- Sonja Dixon