Lake Palestine U.M.C.

In the past two weeks, a lot of activities have been going on in the church. The caroling at the nursing home in Chandler was a real blessing at the first of the month. It was great to be able to sing for such a wonderful and appreciative audience. Then, after that, a fairly large group gathered at the lake for a really nice bonfire with marshmallows, cookies and hot chocolate, plus a fire truck on the side, just in case the flames got out of hand.

Then, that same night, Rev. Richard and Rebecca returned from Germany. They were too tired to come to the bonfire. They haven't had a chance to fill us in on the trip yet, but did say they started out in Cologne where the relics of the Three Wise Men are aupposed to be kept in a church there.

We are very happy to report that Joyce Martin's surgery went off very, very well. She must have had about half the church over at the hospital during her surgery. Bill thanked everyone for their support on Sunday.

Ruby Simon has also undergone surgery a day after Joyce's and she is doing great also. We are praying for her continued recovery.

Congratulations go to both Bob Fisher and Alex Martin who were two of the top honorees at the annual Westside Volunteer Fire Department Christmas party. Both have made considerable contributions through their work there this year.

In order to help pay for a new projector for the church, some of the ladies have set up a craft table to sell items which will go directly into that account. It looks like it's successful because almost everything has been sold.

The children's Christmas program, under the direction of Angela Martin, went very well. A large crowd was in church to watch it.

Also, that evening, the adults gave a great performance in their musical program. Their version of "Amen" had everyone clapping and moving in the aisles.

Ken Cade attended a business meeting in Austin, Texas this past week.

Elizabeth Rowan was sick at home last week. She's much better now, though.

It was good to see Terri and Donna Sullivan and little Landon in church on Sunday. They are visiting here from Houston.

The Traditions dinner had the biggest crowd in attendance in its history. Carols were sung, lots of food eaten, and the winner of the big door prize was Debbie Morris.

Coming up this Saturday night at 6:00 PM is the annual church Christmas party. Everyone is asked to bring a gift for an exchange.

On Monday the 22nd, there will be a Blue Christmas service at the church at 7:00 PM.

This is for those who have suffered loss and is a way to find added comfort in this time of year.

Finally, on the 24th, there will be two Christmas Eve services. The first will be at 4 PM and the second at 7 PM. All in the community are invited to attend.