Dear Friends,
With the beginning of December, we have begun the season of Advent.  I invite you, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Advent - an enclosed article describes some the meaning of Advent for us today.  You will see in this Newsletter that there are a number of services and programs offered to help us experience the holiness of this very rich yet subtle spiritual season.   
This year I am again calling all members of St. Philip's to read one of the four Gospels, in a modern translation, between now and Christmas.  Read it not to figure out every verse and phrase, but for the 'lay of the land'.  If  the Bible is unfamiliar to you, this will be an exciting beginning and opportunity to meet Jesus for yourself through what the Spirit stirs up.  If you are very familiar, read a gospel in a new translation, and listen for new promptings of the Spirit.  (See me for suggestions.)  Please let me know after Christmas simply which Gospel you read and how it went.
Please consider inviting a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to one of our special Advent and Christmas services - they might appreciate a gentle, no-pressure invitation to something you value.  Our Children's Pageant will be on Sunday evening, December 22, at 5:30 p.m.  Our THREE Christmas Services will be:  Christmas Eve at 7:00 p.m. - our Family Service; Christmas Eve at 11:00 p.m. - traditional "Midnight" worship; and Christmas Day at 10:00 a.m.
Finally, all members should have received three stewardship mailings and two pledge cards:  for financial support and for time and talent.  Please prayerfully consider the importance of God's work through St. Philip's and return your pledges as soon as possible so the Bishop's Committee may complete our 2003 Budget.  All others receiving this Newsletter - your help and pledges are humbly invited and needed also.  (Contact the Office for materials and pledge cards.)
May God bless you and those around you this holy Advent season.
           Yours in Christ,                       Martin