November 11, 2005
Christmas Happenings at The Woodlands United Methodist Church
Let Your Heart Find Christmas
Thursday, December 1
A special holiday evening just for women! Join us at 6:30 p.m. for catered desserts and coffee, followed by an evening of Praise and Worship with singer, Lisa Pierre and a special holiday message by gifted writer and speaker, Priscilla Shirer author of “A Jewel In His Crown” and her most recently released Bible study, “He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear from God,” will join us for this special occasion. Priscilla is a Bible teacher, speaker and author with a passion to share the truth of Scripture. Priscilla is the daughter of renowned preacher, Tony Evans, and married to her best friend, Jerry. They have two small boys. Tickets cost $15 and are on sale at the Church Office, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. or may be purchased at the door.
Advent Luncheons
Join us during the Advent season for our Monday lunches. Sing Christmas carols and hear an inspirational message. During the hustle and bustle of the season, this is a great opportunity for you to pause and reflect on the real meaning of the Christmas season. We meet at noon in the Fellowship Hall. We promise to get you out by 1 p.m. A $5 donation for lunch (soup, sandwich and dessert) is appreciated. This year’s speakers are:
December 5 Dr. Jay Horton - First UMC, Lubbock
December 12 Dr. Jim Smith - Saint Stephen UMC, Amarillo and President
of the Asbury Seminary Board
December 19 Rev. Eradio Valverde, Jr. - Trinity UMC, San Antonio,
and board member of Asbury Seminary Board
Savior of the Nations, Come
December 4, Robb Chapel, 5 and 7 p.m.
You are invited to participate in The Woodlands United Methodist Church's presentation of "Savior of the Nations, Come." Join us as we participate in an advent hymn festival presented by a combined choir of youth and adults. Alternating "lessons and carols" prepare us for the birth of Christ in Bethlehem. A harp prelude will begin 15 minutes prior to each service.
No ticket is needed. A love offering will be taken. Nursery will be provided for young children by reservation only by calling 281.297.5949.
TWO SPECIAL EVENTS FOR KIDS!
Come Celebrate Christmas
A special treat for children & their parents
December 7 and 8
This hands-on learning opportunity for young children is a wonderful way for them to learn about the birth of Jesus as they enjoy special age appropriate activities, crafts and snacks. Children will hear the Christmas story retold especially for them! Eight convenient times to choose from. To find more about this event or to register, go to www.gracekids.com. Registration available through December1.
GROzone Christmas Extravaganza
A family Christmas celebration
December 10, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. in Area 51
Join us for a family worship with music provided by Wes Swan and a Christmas play directed by Jennifer Pope with our youth volunteers. Following the play a celebration in the gym with birthday cake for Baby Jesus, games and a family craft. Cost is $5 per family. Register online at www.gracekids.com through December 4.
Wondrous Gift – Christmas Musical
Presented by the Chancel Choir and Sanctuary Orchestra
December 11, 6:30 p.m. in our Sanctuary
Christmas is more about giving than receiving, and it is this conviction that lies at the heart of Wondrous Gift. The most unimaginable act of giving the world will ever know occurred when a loving Father sent us the gift of His Son. In return there is only one thing God really wants our hearts.
The cost of tickets is $15, $10, $7.50 and $5. A ticket will be needed for this event. A nursery will be provided for young children by reservation only. Nursery is encouraged for children five years and younger by calling 281.297.5949. Tickets will be available beginning Sunday, November 13, at the Information Center and during the week in the Church Office.
Christmas Eve Services
Celebrate the joy of the holidays at one of our seven Christmas Eve services!
Saturday, December 24
Children’s Special Blessings Service, 1:30 p.m. – Area 51
Created for families with special needs members in a fun, loving and interactive setting. Join us for this playful gathering featuring music and drama.
A Children’s Holiday Adventure, 3 p.m. Sanctuary
Join us for this playful gathering for families featuring music and drama. This fun-filled program shares the real meaning of Christmas through the eyes of a child highlighting familiar holiday songs and life-size animal characters.
The Harvest, A Contemporary Service, 5 p.m. – Sanctuary
Acoustic music accents this authentic Christmas celebration in a relaxed worship style. Join nationally known worship leader Bruce Clinton or an evening of heartfelt praise and communion.
Christmas Without Them, 7 p.m. – The Robb Chapel
A special service for those who have suffered a loss.
If this time of year touches a tender place of remembrance that still has not healed, this special service will offer lighting a candle in memory of your loved one and a short message of comfort and hope.
Traditional Services
Carols and Communion, 7 p.m., in the Sanctuary
Come experience the sights and sounds of Christmas. This wonderful celebration of Christ’s birth, including holiday carols and communion, will be a holiday tradition you and your family are sure to find meaningful.
Candlelight Service
A Family Christmas Tradition, 9 and 11 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Experience the quiet, peaceful meaning of Christmas as hundreds of candles light the Sanctuary. Make these special holiday communion services a family Christmas tradition.
Nursery is available at all Christmas Eve services, except at 11 p.m. For more information on our Christmas season, call the Church Office at 281.297.5900 or go to twumc.org.