On Sunday, December 20, from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m., hop in the car and make your way to Asheville’s new favorite Christmas tree, ready to bring your offering as an act of worship.
“…And when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” —Matthew 2:11
Beloved, Every Christmas Eve, our sanctuary fills to capacity with members and their families, along with tourists from far and wide. One of our traditions in the holy light of this sacred night has been to collect an offering in support of a vital, local ministry. Our friends at Homeward Bound offer that opportunity in 2020. Every dollar collected this year will help Homeward Bound keep over 100 of our most at-risk and vulnerable homeless neighbors warm during the day by operating a Warming Center at Central UMC. Funds will also provide overnight lodging at Red Roof Inn and other motels while they await permanent housing. As well, our congregational offering will enable us to collect and deliver camping gear and heavy coats to those still living outside during this cold COVID-19 winter.
While we can’t pass the plates in the sanctuary this year, there’s nothing to prevent us from observing this beloved tradition just outside our front doors. So, I invite you to our final drive-thru worship experience of the year. On Sunday, December 20, from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m., hop in the car and make your way to Asheville’s new favorite Christmas tree, ready to bring your offering as an act of worship. Simply enter the sanctuary-side parking lot, stay in your car, follow the luminary-lined path, and a minister or volunteer will extend a collection basket so that you may remain both a cheerful and safe giver. After placing your offering, you may drive by the tree and exit the lot, or join the “outfitter line” for Christmas Eve worship supplies. Those who were unable to attend Hanging of the Green will be able to pick up candles and communion elements for our live-streamed 6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service. And, if your own Christmas tree remains unadorned with a Chrismon, we’ll have some extras to give away.
If you’re unable to bring your donation, but would like to help, please go to the church website and click on GIVE. Select “Designated Gift,” and type “Homeward Bound” in the Designated Gift Description. You may also mail a contribution to the church at 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC 28801.
May the light of hope glow in our hearts this Advent, that we may be prepared to welcome the Christ child with glad and generous hearts. With every good wish, Mack Dennis
