As I write this we have just had our Christmas Sunday Service. It’s been a beautiful day, in spite of the harsh weather. Our sanctuary was filled with music this morning, and we were blessed to have the Synergy Brass Quintet join us in honoring this special time of the year. We had many church members, friends and visitors in attendance: I felt such joy to see so many people in our sanctuary.

Our service was followed by a luncheon sponsored by our Parish Activities Committee. Many thanks to those who brought something to share. I am especially grateful to Mary Brunswick for her many years of service as chair of this committee. She and other members of the committee have spent many hours on the activities that have brought us together as a community, often helping to raise money as well.

In March 2005 the Synergy Brass Quintet played a concert as part of our Concerts at 3 series when First Parish celebrated its 375th anniversary. This morning a member of the quintet told me that he noticed a change in the our church since that last visit--a new spirit and a wonderful energy and enthusiasm. It warmed my heart that the great work we have been doing together these last few years was noticed once again by someone outside the church.

We still have some struggles to deal with, but we are making great strides in becoming a strong and vibrant church community. I’m moved and gratified to see the amount of work being done by this small congregation.

We can look forward to many more special moments together in 2009. As we begin this new year, may the blessing of all that is holy be upon us, our community, our nation, and our world.

--In peace, Art