Union Hill Baptist
by Mickey Bigbie

Fourteen years ago, on the first Sunday in December, Brother Bill Hamilton preached his first sermon at Union Hill Baptist Church. He and his beloved wife Ms. Charlie have devoted their lives to us, their church family. Brother Bill is the epitome of a truly dedicated pastor, always there for us. Never seeming to tire, he has an uncanny inner radar that guides him to the one who needs him at exactly the appropriate time. His messages from the pulpit strike at the heart of our problems like he has a window into our very souls. His shoulders, I'm sure, are soggy from the many tears we've cried on them, and he continues to balance the weight of our problems on those shoulders. He's spent endless hours praying for us and with us. He's consoled us, cried with us, laughed with us, guided us and yes, at times, he's stomped on our toes when we needed it. We love him and Ms. Charlie and we thank God for sending us one of His best undershepherds. Through these two, the Lord guides us through the ups and downs of our daily lives. Thank you, Lord for one of your mightiest blessings.

Sunday kicked off the wonderful celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The first Advent Candle, the Candle of Hope, was lighted during the morning service by Mark and Nita Sargent and daughter, Angela Northcutt. Sunday evening the congregation participated in the annual Hanging of the Greens with music, songs, drama and decorating of the sanctuary. Refreshments were served in fellowship hall following the very special service.

The annual toy run to the Texas Baptist Children's Home was a heartwarming success as some forty people participated in the ride. Joining the Wheels of Mercy, were riders from Gun Barrel City and from Tyler along with some of the Circuit Riders. Not all participants rode bikes, as the youngest was only two weeks old! Not only were the residents of the Children's Home delighted but those who joined in the ride, received a great blessing.

The bell ringers from Union Hill manned the Salvation Army kettles at Brookshires in Chandler Saturday and you will see them again on each upcoming Saturday. You'll find them at both doors. You can't miss them, so keep that change handy!

This Christmas season finds the youth of Union Hill busy. As a fund raiser, they provided a yummy baked potato lunch after the morning service Sunday. Keep in mind that they will be available to sort and hand out your Christmas cards (saving you postage) and they can wrap your gifts too. After the evening service Sunday they will go to see the light show and stop at Braums on the way home.

Don't forget, this Thursday, the 6th, it's time again for Senior Moments. That means lots of fun and fellowship. Fun begins at 7:00 p.m.

Ladies, your night is Tuesday, December 11th, at 6:30 p.m. It's the Ladies Christmas Dinner. A catered dinner will be furnished. There will be games, devotional and a time just to visit. Need to know how many to plan for, so get your name on the list on the bulletin board. If you need child care, please contact Glenda Wallace or call the church office.