Welcome, Visitors Information about our church and ministries is available on the Welcome Table near the main doors. Standing nearby are church members who will be happy to answer your questions. Our next membership exploration class is Saturday, February 4, 2017.

For the convenience of those who need to leave the Sanctuary during worship, the service is video broadcast in the Chapel, Upper Lounge and Nursery.

Large-print bulletins are available. Please ask the ushers for a copy.

Welcoming Children in Worship Child care for infants and toddlers is available during both worship services in the upper level of the Children, Youth and Family Center. Three- and four-year-old Church School children will perform at the beginning of today’s Christmas Pageant, then join their parents.

The PrayGround is closed today; children not in the pageant are encouraged to watch their peers and hear about Christmas in a new and exciting way.

Please see the “Welcoming Children at First Congregational” cards in the pews for more information on worship as an intergenerational experience.

Online Streaming and Podcasting Audio and video recordings of our sermons and a written transcript are accessible from www.firstcongoappleton.org/sermons. To subscribe to a podcast of the sermon audio, please visit www.firstcongoappleton.org/sermons/feed and choose an option. Videos are also accessible through our YouTube channel at www. firstcongoappleton.org/youtube.

Members in Service December 18, 2016 8:45 AM 10:30 AM Usher Team Captains Dennis Korth Mike Spurlock and Jeff Schang Lay Readers Howard Niblock Mark Jenike Multi-Media—audio Bill Francis Rick Behm Multi-Media—video Dennis Korth Kris Behm Counter December 19 Pat Hirby

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December 18 Highlights at First Congo Today Christmas Pageant, Bell Sunday and Joyful Noise Today Last Call for Gulf Shrimp! ......................................................... p. 14 Today Kenya Student Sponsors Meet Wanda in the Narthex .......... p. 14 Christmas Eve Do-It-Yourself Nativity at 2:00 PM Christmas Eve Do-It-Yourself Nativity, music from our Children’s Choir at 4:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7:00 PM Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols with Communion at 9:00 PM Christmas Day Bring your flair and worship with us at 10:30 AM ................. p. 19 New Year’s Day Worship with us at 10:30 AM

Flowers The Advent display in the Sanctuary this morning was designed by Cindi Ritcey Fox. Thank you to all who donated to this display! We have listed all whose gifts helped make the Sanctuary extra special this Christmas season on bulletin p. 24.

Donating to First Congregational UCC If you donate online, you may still participate in the weekly offering by submitting a giving card, found in the pews. We encourage members and friends of First Congregational to assist us in planning our budget by pledging each year. Pledge cards are available in the pews and may be placed in the offering plates at any time.

Online Documents and Information Official documents of First Congregational and links to announcements, news and other information reside on our website. Visit www.FirstCongoAppleton.org/read-it-here to connect with First Congregational in a variety of ways: an electronic version of The Open Door newsletter, social media, blogs and more.

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THE ORDER OF WORSHIP FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

December 18, 2016 8:45 and 10:30 AM Welcome to The Church of the Open Door.

Our door is open to you at whatever point you are in your journey of faith.

PRELUDE

The First Nowell Traditional O Tannenbaum Gesu Bambino

Carmen Danz and Chris Danz, piano

Offertory On Two Christmas Hymns Guilmant David Cook, organ

(Please sign the registration form on the end of the pew, pass it down the row, and then return it, that all may know the names of those sharing in worship today. Prayer request cards are collected at the ends of the pews as well.)

RINGING OF THE CHURCH BELL

WELCOME

YOUTH PRAYER

MISSION MOMENT

The Warming Shelter Leigh Grube

GREETING

PRESCHOOL SONG

Christmas Time Shari Mitchell

Christmas time, Christmas time Christmas time is here We all love to celebrate This special time of year

Christmas time, Christmas time Christmas time is here We all love to celebrate

This special time of year.

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To Bethlehem they go No place for them to stay With animals, all around

The baby in the hay Shepherds and three kings

Following the star Bringing gifts to celebrate And angels sing with joy

Christmas time, Christmas time

Christmas time is here We all love to celebrate This special time of year

Christmas time, Christmas time Christmas time is here We all love to celebrate

This special time of year.

*CALL TO WORSHIP Leader: Amazing God, you love us so much that you came to us as an infant. People: Born in a stable because there was no room at the inn. Leader: You call us to love the world as we have been loved by you. People: Wrapped in swaddling clothes, you slept in a manger because there

was no crib. Leader: You command us to love our neighbors as ourselves. People: Shepherds welcomed you. Leader: You call us to create an inclusive church in which everyone is welcomed

and loved. People: No one was turned away from the stable door. Leader: You call us to open our doors, to welcome the outcasts, house the

homeless, and feed the hungry. All: Help us create a world and a church in which all your children are safe

and loved, affirmed, welcomed, and fully accepted, where we all have a community of angels surrounding us. Amen.

*PROCESSIONAL HYMN (bulletin p. 10 and 11) On This Day Earth Shall Ring PERSONENT HODIE

The Congregation is invited to ring their bells and sing on the refrain (“Ideo . . . “)

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LIGHTING OF THE FOURTH ADVENT CANDLE—HOPE Gabbey Family (8:45 AM) Brenda Gorges (10:30 AM)

INTRODUCTORY SENTENCES

READING OF SCRIPTURE Isaiah 60:2–3 (OT p. 844)

LIGHTING OF THE CANDLE

UNISON PRAYER

O God, we thank you that Jesus brought hope into our world. By the good news of the Bible you are still bringing hope to people. Help us to be ready to welcome Jesus Christ so that we may be a people of hope. Amen.

SUNG RESPONSE (bulletin p. 9) Light the Candle Carl Schalk

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GOSPEL READING Luke 1:26-38 (NT p. 69)

GATHERING OF JOYS AND CONCERNS

Leader: The Lord be with you. People: And also with you. Leader: Let us pray.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (In unison) Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

ANTHEM

Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella French Carol arr. Michael Mazzatenta

The Youth Handbells

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PRESENTATION OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS/JOYFUL NOISE OFFERING

OFFERING HYMN #135 Angels We Have Heard On High GLORIA

The Congregation is invited to ring their bells during the refrain.

*DOXOLOGY

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise God, all creatures here below; Praise God above, ye heavenly host: Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

*PRAYER OF DEDICATION

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT 2016

The Fourth King Adapted from a story by Henry Van Dyke

SCENE 1: A CAROLING PARTY

Choir Director: Elena Eubanks Artiban (A Wise Man): Dawson Fish Sheep: Henry Clothier

Carolers: Nora Austin, Mya Ballerstein, Peyton Tonn, Will Clothier, Celia Gentile, Avery Gentile, Grace Radix, Reese Handevidt, Isabella Bauman, Jacqui Mukome, Jean Claude Mukome, Eva Schmidt, Laney Schmidt, Rebecca Shauger, Ryder Waters

SONG

When the Spirit of the Lord Fred Hammond Jackie Mukome, Eva Schmidt, Mya Ballerstein; soloists

SCENE II: A CANDY STORE

Narrators: Nora Austin, Peyton Tonn, Elena Eubanks, Eva Schmidt Candymaker: Mya Ballerstein

SCENE III: THE STORY OF THE POINSETTIAS

Narrators: Peyton Tonn, Eva Schmidt, Jean Claude Mukome

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SONG

Go Tell it on the Mountain Traditional Jean Claude Mukome, Will Clothier, Elena Eubanks; soloists

SCENE IV: THE STAR

Star of Wonder Teri Roche Vocalists: Jennifer Plamann, Tami Johnson, Kris Glenn Dancers: Elena Eubanks, Grace Radix, Jackie Mukome Choreographer: Macy Berendsen Storytellers: Jackie Mukome, Eva Schmidt, Mya Ballerstein

SCENE V: LOVE WAS BORN

Love Was Born Mark Schultz

Chorus (Carolers) Angels fill the midnight sky and they sing

Hallelujah, He is Christ, our King

Emmanuel, Prince of peace Love come down for you and me

Heaven's gift, the holy spark To light the way inside our hearts

Nora Austin, soloist

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Directed by: Dee Savides Musicians: Chris Danz, John Aaholm, Shannon Glenn Child Wrangler: Dianne Droster Parent Assistance: Shawna Waters Costumes: Kara Woodford

*CLOSING HYMN #162

We Three Kings of Orient Are KINGS OF ORIENT

The Congregation is invited to ring their bells on the refrain (“Star of Wonder. . .”)

*BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE In Dulci Jubilo Bach

*The Congregation Standing

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TODAY’S MUSICIANS

David Cook, organ Carmen Danz, piano The Youth Handbells, 2016-17: Carmen Danz, Natalie Erstad, Rachel Foster, Bradyn Gentile, Dillon Grade, Sam Mast, Sophia Mast, Lily Nichols, Natalie Payette, Sydney Pittner, Avra Taylor, Sienna Taylor, Grace Wauters; John Albrecht, director.

Upcoming Worship Schedule December 24, 2016 Christmas Eve Do-It-Yourself Nativity 2:00, 4:00 PM Director for Children’s Ministries Kristin Underwood Scripture reading: Isaiah 9:6-7 Music: Elizabeth Melchert, organ and piano (2:00 PM) Jon D. Riehle, organ and piano (4:00 PM) Singers from The Children’s Choir, John Albrecht, director (4:00 PM) Caroline Holmes, soprano (4:00 PM) Barbara Boren, flute December 24, 2016 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7:00 PM Rev. Jeannie Douglas Scripture readings: Luke 1:26-38; 1:39-45, 2:1-7, 2:8-20 John 1:1-14 Music: Jon D. Riehle, organ, harpsichord, piano; Ashleigh Kreider, Paris Wicker, sopranos; Karen Leigh-Post, mezzo-soprano; Hillary Reynolds, piano and vocals; Joel Jicha, bass; Kellan Glenn, boy treble; John Daniel, John Toussaint, Kris Henke, trumpets; Jane Bent, flute; Vicky Daniel, percussion; John Albrecht, Director for Music Ministries December 24, 2016 Service of Lessons and Carols, Communion 9:00 PM Rev. Steve Savides Scripture readings: Isaiah 6:1–13, 9:6-7 Luke 1:26-35, 2:1-16 Matthew 1:18-23 John 1:1-14 Music: Jon D. Riehle, organ, harpsichord, piano; The Sanctuary Choir; David Murphy, boy treble; Ashleigh Kreider, soprano; Paris Wicker, soprano; Karen Leigh-Post, mezzo-soprano; Jane Bent, flute; John Daniel, Kris Henke, trumpets; Lori Murphy, violin; Vicky Daniel, percussion; Jack Murphy, guitar; John Albrecht, Director for Music Ministries

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JOYS AND CONCERNS OF OUR FAITH COMMUNITY

Members of our church family benefit from our prayers, support and words of encouragement as they celebrate special times or struggle with difficulties in their lives. Please keep these people in your prayers and greet them with a loving word when you see them.

If you are in the hospital, please let the church know, as we are not always notified. In cases of a pastoral emergency, please call (920) 810-2600.

New Prayers for

Debbie Adams’s brother Jim Jill Anthony’s neighbor John Jill Anthony’s sister and brother-in-law Kurt Barnes Greg Clay, brother of Carolyn Frederick Christy deBoer Ivo Geurts, father of Nanette Geurts Kris Hietpas Tami Johnson’s sister, Colleen Nancy Jones, mother of Linda Jones-

Pierron Families and children of Palestine Steve Reinkober, brother of

Chris Brittnacher Daniel Schiedermayer Amanda Spindler Jennifer Wild Elden Willing

Continuing Prayers

Lyndee Aleman Katie Behl Judy Burdick, mother of Megan Burdick-

Grade Dena Collier Matthew Dedering Margitta Furnner Esther Gehrt Ken Geiger Evelyn Gelbke Shirley George Don Gillum Maggie Hendrick Eunice Klemp Don Larson, father of Sandi Hurm Our country’s military around the world Rick Kramer, Richard Miller’s son-in-law Alex Melchert Syrian refugees Tom Ott’s sister-in-law, Debbie Mya Wardle, daughter of Brian and Lecia

Wardle

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Due to copyright restrictions, we are unable to reprint the music scores that appear in our printed bulletins.

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Christmas Day Worship Schedule December 25, 2016 Last Sunday of 2016 10:30 AM Christmas Day Rev. Nicholas Hatch Scripture readings: Luke 2:8-20 Music: Jon D. Riehle, organist Kris Henke, trumpet Phil Gabrielson, baritone

Members in Service on Christmas Day December 25, 2016 10:30 AM Usher Team Captains Dennis Korth, Mike Spurlock and Jeff Schang Lay Reader Kris Henke Multi-Media—audio Mark Mauthe Multi-Media—video Sue Mauthe Counter December 27 Jill Anthony

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THE OPEN DOOR December 18, 2016 Volume 16, Issue 51

Pastor’s Message

That’s the Way the Cookie Crumbles When I was a little girl, my mom would bake cutout Christmas cookies, hundreds of them. It was my and my sister’s job to decorate each and every one of them. We spent hours carefully placing red hots on the tips of the reindeers’ noses or lining up the silver dragées (or BBs, as we called them in my house) just right on the snowmen vests. Green sugar was reserved for the Christmas trees and red for Santa’s suit.

My mother would meticulously frost each cookie, making sure that every millimeter was covered and no dough shown through; my sister and I sat praying that one would accidently break and we would get to eat it. After each cookie had passed my father’s inspection, a red ribbon was thread through a hole my mom had made with a toothpick and placed just perfectly on our Christmas tree.

Now on paper this seems like a wonderful family tradition, and it was. However, the problem with it is that we were not allowed to eat any of the cookies hanging on the tree. My sister and I would stare at our lovely tree, decorated in cookies that we had designed, and dream of sweet tastes of sugar and frosting. We asked every night after dinner if we could have a cookie, the response was always the same: they were decorations and we had to wait.

Christmas Day had finally arrived, we had finished our holiday dinner and, as usual, we asked if we could “please eat just one cookie” (at this point we were even willing to share). Much to our surprise, mom said yes! Christmas had come, the parties were over, and the tree would come down in a couple of days.

My sister and I rushed into the family room to pick our favorite cookie from the tree. I knew the exact one I was going to pick. I had been eyeing it up for weeks! I had chosen the angel, it was the largest, filled with gold and blue sugar that sparkled just right when the light hit it. I could not wait to bite into the sugary goodness. After all, I had been dreaming of this moment for weeks, much like Clement Clark Moore’s “sugar plums dancing in their heads.”

At last, I opened my watering mouth ready to chomp down only to be met with something that felt more like a cement slab than a cookie. The cookies had hung on the tree so long they were hard as rocks!!

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The sheer disappointment of that moment was overwhelming! I had waited patiently. I had kept my eye on the prize, anticipating the taste, marveling in the ability of a cookie to be both a delicious dessert and a wonderful decoration at the same time. What a letdown!

My mother was horrified! She had withheld this tasty treat for weeks, listened to us beg to eat “just one” and stood firm in her convictions that the cookies were decorations, at least for the time being, and now she had two sets of big blue eyes filled with tears staring at her, she had denied us the cookies for so long they were nothing more than just a decoration now.

We learned from that lesson. In future years, we still made a batch of cookies for decoration. But we also made a batch of cookies to be eaten throughout the season!

I reflect on this memory frequently. There were many takeaway lessons for me throughout my many years. Among them I knew when I became a parent I was never going to make that mistake in my household, thus I find myself baking and re-baking often during the holiday season because the goodies get eaten before the prescribed time they are needed. But probably the biggest lesson for me was that of learning to live with anticipation, not really ever sure of what the outcome will be but waiting with patience, knowing that the outcome may not be what I expect it to be.

Imagine the anticipation Mary and Joseph must have experienced on the eve of Christ’s birth! She was going to give birth to the Son of God. They didn’t know what to expect. They didn’t even have place to stay. And yet with the guidance of God, everything worked out. And now the uncertainty of that night has transformed into the magical tradition we experience every year.

We are more than halfway through Advent, the time of expectant waiting, preparation and anticipation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Today our children share with you some symbols of the season that serve as a reminder that the payoff for that Advent time was the birth of a tiny baby who was sent to teach us how to live, love and accept all.

May Christ’s love surround you and your families during this joyous holiday season and may all your Christmas cookies be fresh!

Kristin Underwood Director for Children’s Ministry

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Stewardship Putting faith into action with our time, passion,

skills and financial gifts.

Stewardship Campaign Update First things first: We want to offer a HUGE THANK YOU to the 308 individuals, families and households who have already contributed or pledged $823,051.21 to our Open Door, Shared Table Stewardship campaign. That represents an average gift of $2,672! Isn’t it truly a joyful experience to share together in helping support the life and mission of our First Congregational Church?

With the commitment and support of last year’s donors who have yet to make their pledge, we know we can reach this year’s $939,000 campaign goal. We are now nearing 90% of our target. Your Stewardship Team is looking forward to honoring you and for all of us to celebrate the successful completion of this campaign. Let’s make that happen soon!

With gratitude and joyful anticipation, Your Stewardship Team

Important reminder: For those of you doing auto-pledges, please remember to sign your pledge card on the back. If you’ve not previously done pledging via auto-withdrawals, also be sure to provide all the necessary banking or credit union information. If you are able, please consider an increase of 3.0% or more to help us reach our budgeted increase.

Mission and Service Building relationships, serving others,

pursuing justice.

Final Day to Purchase Alternative Christmas Gifts

Today

Consider changing lives through your holiday shopping: make a charitable donation as an alternative Christmas gift for your family and friends.

Today is the last day Alternative Christmas Market gifts can be purchased. Visit the ACM table in the Narthex to pick up a catalog and place an order, or view the catalog on www.firstcongoappleton.org /serving/alternative-christmas-market.

Last Call for Gulf Shrimp! Today

A few pounds of Gulf shrimp remain for purchase this week. If this news has your mouth watering, please see the table in the Narthex after the 8:45 AM service to purchase. Cost is $12 per pound and all proceeds go to Back Bay Mission.

Calling all Kenya Sponsors Today

Please see Wanda Van De Hey of the Kenya Partnership Team in the Narthex between services today. She will be handing out remaining letters and pictures of Kenya students to sponsors.

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Fox Valley Warming Shelter Volunteer Opportunities

The holiday season reminds us how much we all have to be thankful for every day of the year. We will have another opportunity during the bitterly cold month of January to open our hearts and hands to those in need.

The Fox Valley Warming Shelter provides homeless adults a hot meal and a safe place to sleep. We can offer hope to our brethren by providing and/or serving an evening meal and giving back to those who are disadvantaged. The Fox Valley Warming Shelter is counting on our support in January. Sign-up sheets are now in the Narthex for January 28 to February 3, 2017.

Feel free to call Amy Oberstadt, (920) 205-1091, or Leigh Grube, (920) 851-3531, if you have any questions.

A Special Thank You from World Relief and Local Refugee Families On February 14, 2012, World Relief Fox Valley welcomed a refugee family of three. Almost five years later, World Relief will have greeted a total of 693 individuals. These friends are from Afghanistan, Burma, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq, Pakistan and Syria.

As we enter a season of celebration and joy, our hearts are filled with thankfulness for the refugees we have welcomed into our family and for those who are yet to come. We are also thankful for you as we

reflect on this five-year journey. Your generosity and support have provided a foundation of encouragement and belief that our cause is important and that we have many who stand with us.

Our prayer for all throughout 2017: “May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you peace.”

Deadline Nears for Pine Ridge Mission Trip through Re-Member

Registration deadline: December 28 Trip: August 19–25, 2017

Re-Member, our program host on the Pine Ridge Reservation, has confirmed reservations for 10 during the week of August 19 through 25, 2017. (This is a change from the original dates.) Our plans are to depart from Appleton early Friday morning on August 18 and to return late on Friday, August 25.

If you are interested in this mission trip, Re-Member asks that we confirm numbers

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and make our initial deposits by Wednesday, December 28.

For more information, please contact Eilene Hoft-March, Eilene.Hoft-March@lawrence.edu.

Sacred Journey to Israel-Palestine

Registration deadline: January 15, 2017 Trip: April 20–30, 2017

The Israel-Palestine region, often referred to as the “holy land,” is the cradle of all three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). It is a place of sacred sites and sacred stories; it also is an incredibly complex place socially, culturally and politically. In April 2017, we will be taking another sacred journey to Israel-Palestine as part of our conferencewide partnership and we invite you to consider traveling with us to see the holy sites of our tradition and to meet with people we call the “living stones” of our faith.

Be part of a movement to build greater understanding and foundations for peace in this land considered holy by many. A word of caution: This is not a bus tour trip. We will do a lot of walking on uneven pavement, sometimes for a couple hours at a time. We stay in guest houses and local hotels; participants must carry their own luggage. Travelers must be in good physical shape.

Our trip is scheduled for April 20–30, 2017. We prefer to keep the group size small (10-15) in order to travel around the

area more easily and have more intimate conversations with people we meet. Deadline for registration is January 15, 2017. Cost of the trip will be about $3,000, based on double occupancy. For more information or to sign up, contact Bonnie Van Overbeke at bonnievano@aol.com or 608-274-1859.

Youth and Families Faith, fun and service.

Child Care, Church School Schedule for Christmas Season

First Congregational has a busy Christmas season ahead! To help you keep track of our child care and Church School offerings, we’ve outlined the schedule below:

Today

8:45 AM – Infant and toddler child care available; 3- and 4-year-old Church School kids will perform at the beginning of the Christmas Pageant, then join their parents; no K-6 Church School classes, please join your parents for the Pageant

10:30 AM – Infant and toddler child care available; 3- and 4-year-old Church School kids will perform at the beginning of the Christmas Pageant, then join their parents; no PrayGround

Christmas Eve, December 24

2:00 PM – Infant and toddler child care available

4:00 PM – Infant and toddler child care available

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7:00 PM – Infant and toddler child care available; PrayGround available (K-4th grade)

9:00 PM – No infant and toddler child care; PrayGround available with parent supervision

Christmas Day, December 25

10:30 AM – No infant and toddler child care or Church School; PrayGround available with parent supervision

New Year’s Day, January 1

10:30 AM – No infant and toddler child care or Church School; PrayGround available with parent supervision

Children are always welcome to attend service in the pews alongside their families. Additionally, services are also video broadcast in the Chapel, Upper Lounge and Nursery.

Middle School Poinsettia Delivery Helps Make Spirits Bright

On Wednesday, December 14, 18 of our Middle School Ministry youth shared the Christmas spirit by delivering poinsettias along with handmade cards to our homebound members.

While the temperature may have been below zero, our hearts were warm and

bright! We sang a carol, enjoyed some fellowship and were inspired by visiting.

This Week in High School Ministry

We teamed up with our Confirmation class to make cookies and Christmas cards for members of the Heritage Peabody Community. In total, we made and delivered more than 600 cookies, along with a nice handwritten Christmas card, to help spread cheer during this holiday season.

When the cookies and cards were received, tears came to the eyes of some of the residents and it was a truly moving experience. Comments heard were, “It is so nice to be remembered,” and “Thank you for such a nice gift.” It was an absolute blessing to help serve members of the community.

Keep your eyes open for the next service project our youth will be doing in January!

High School Small Groups Return in Early January Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Wednesday, January 4, winter small groups for high school students begins. This is one of the best ways to connect with other students, have faith conversations, and enjoy being here during these cold months. Come at 6:00 PM for pizza if you want!

More about High School Small Groups: For seven weeks in the fall, seven weeks

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in the winter, and sometimes four weeks in the spring, students gather for an hour-long discussion lead by a committed adult. These discussions are part of a three-year curriculum derived from important topics identified at the curriculum retreat hosted by Youth Ministry Architects at our church! Topics include commitment, character, spirituality, courage and multiple Lenten studies meant to teach more about Christ.

Have more questions? Contact Director for Youth Ministries Joel Morien at www.firstcongoappleton.org/contact /Joel%20Morien or call (920) 733-7393, ext. 247.

High School Students to Serve at Homeless Connections

Sunday, January 8, 2017, 7:00-9:30 AM

On January 8, high school students will serve breakfast at Homeless Connections of the Fox Valley. While this is mandatory for all Youth Mission participants, anyone is welcome to come. We will meet at the shelter, 400 N. Division St., Appleton.

Contact Julie Gamm at julgamm@aol.com to sign up!

Thank You, Volunteer Teachers! Rotation 2, Symbols of Christmas – Christ Revealed, has come to a successful close. The children spent five weeks learning about the hidden meaning behind the traditional hymn, Twelve Days of Christmas, as well as the legends of the candy cane and poinsettia. They watched a movie on Christ’s birth and participated

in an experiment that made a light bulb light up when good choices were made.

Our workshops were led by a team of very amazing volunteer teachers. The children would like to thank Shari Mitchell, Jolene Scribner, Amy Bowman, Heather Gentile, Mary Ballerstein, Cheryl Nisler, Brett Underwood and the many middle school helpers for their dedication to Children’s Ministry.

Volunteers for Rotation 3, Character Counts – Joshua, are underway now. If you are interested in teaching January 8–February 5, please let Kristin know or email her at www.firstcongoappleton.org/contact/Kristin%20Underwood.

Warm Hearts — and Feet — this Christmas Season

Friends of First Congo, the children and our Mission and Outreach ministry are joining forces for the month of December. We are asking our members to consider purchasing a pair of socks, a pair for every member in your household, and donating them.

A common request on every wish list we receive from our community partners is socks. By collecting socks, we will be able to spread your generosity among many of our partners.

Be creative: If you wear silly socks, consider donating silly socks. If you wear thermal socks or athletic socks, we will take those too.

Socks may be donated at any time during the month of December but we will be

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dedicating them on December 24 and 25 during our Christmas services.

Worship and Music A diverse community practicing faith,

finding spiritual connection and experiencing the Holy through artful sound.

Planning a Baptism Soon? Baptisms are scheduled for the following Sundays in early 2017: • January 8 • February 12 • March 19 • April 23 • May 14

If you plan to be baptized or have a child baptized, please fill out a baptism registration form and turn it in to the church office at least a month ahead of time.

Update: Look for baptism and wedding registration forms online at www.firstcongoappleton.org in early 2017!

Sing in the 9:00 PM Christmas Eve Choir!

Our Sanctuary Choir will again welcome additional singers for our 9:00 PM Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols.

Each year we include familiar carol arrangements, as well as some brand-new music. Returning college students, young adults, family members, spouses and partners of choir members, members, and

friends who love singing are all welcome! We ask that you join us for 7:00 PM rehearsal on Wednesday December 21 to learn the music.

Interested? Have questions? RSVP via email to John Albrecht (our director for Music Ministries) at www.firstcongoappleton.org/contact/John%20Albrecht, sign up in the Narthex, or call John at 920-733-7393, ext. 230.

Thank you!

Show Your Flair on Christmas Day Sunday, December 25, 10:30 AM

We will have worship service on Christmas Day, December 25th! We will have a congregational hymn sing and toast the birthday of Christ. Also, if you plan on attending, please bring with you a piece of “Christmas flair”: something you can wear or hold that is either humorous or serious, but has real meaning for you.

Help Us Find First Congo’s Bells

You might have noticed fewer bells at today’s Bell Sunday worship service. Unfortunately, our container of bells has been missing since last year. If you have seen them, please let someone at the church office know.

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Congregational Life Embracing God, welcoming others,

knowing ourselves.

Be Part of First Congo’s Intergenerational Musical

Readthrough: January 15, 2017, 11:30 AM Performances: March 11 and 12, 2017

Join in the fun of our 2017 Intergenerational Musical, Prophets of Loss. All are welcome; no experience necessary. Come sing, dance and play with us!

We will meet in Fellowship Hall after second service on Sunday, January 15, for a potluck and read-through. Rehearsals will take place on Wednesday evenings (roughly 5:30 to 7:00 PM, including a supper break) and Sundays (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM). Performances will be March 11 and 12.

Sign up in the Narthex if you can help us plan, or just show up on January 15!

Memorial Garden Endowment Challenge Update

Several months ago, a generous couple offered a $10,000 challenge grant to stimulate contributions to the Memorial Garden Endowment Fund. Responses were heartwarming. Forty-nine individuals and families donated $13,325.24, motivating a second couple to extend the matching grant to $15,000.

As of December 1, the full $15,000 challenge had been met, thus increasing the total in the Endowment Fund to just

over $41,000. This amount will generate an annual distribution large enough to cover professional maintenance costs each year, thus ensuring that our garden will remain a beautiful and peaceful resting place for the cremains of loved ones during the foreseeable future.

We are very grateful that so many people share an appreciation for the garden and support its care over the long term.

Memorial Garden Committee Gifts, Memorials, and Grants Committee

Listening and Witnessing in Washington, D.C.

January 19–22, 2017 Join Pastor Nick and the Wisconsin Conference United Church of Christ on the “Listening and Witnessing in Washington, D.C.” trip during Inauguration weekend in January. The trip will include interfaith worship, peaceful demonstration (including the Women’s March on Washington), educational discussion and reflection on social justice concerns facing religious and ethnic minorities in our nation. Together we will serve as faithful witnesses of our

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commitment to radical love, and a vision of a more just and generous world for all people.

The $375 per person cost includes round-trip bus and three hotel nights (in a double-occupancy room). Meals are not included in this cost.

Pastor Nick is helping lead this trip. Please contact him at (920) 733-7393, ext. 233 or www.firstcongoappleton.org/contact/Nick%20Hatch with any questions you might have.

This trip is filling up fast! Register soon if you want to participate.

Visit the Wisconsin Conference's website, www.wcucc.org, to learn more, check out the travel schedule and register.

Fox Cities Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Monday, January 16, 2017, 6:30 PM Lawrence University Memorial Chapel,

510 E. College Ave., Appleton

Mark your calendar for the 26th annual Fox Cities Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at 6:30 PM at Lawrence University Memorial Chapel in Appleton.

The keynote speaker for this year is columnist and in-demand lecturer Leonard Pitts. The Jane LaChapelle McCarty MLK Community Leader and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Educator awardees will be announced that this event as well.

Administration A Gift of Stocks

Stocks are a great alternative for your charitable giving. If you are interested in donating stocks to First Congo, please ask your broker to contact John Hanson at PDI Financial Group, (920) 739-2303, and ask him to transfer the gift to First Congregational UCC, Appleton, WI’s account at Wedbush-Mogan Securities. First Congregational UCC’s account number is 3241-6622 and Wedbush-Morgan DTC #0103.

Please be mindful when planning your gift that the church is charged a $40 transaction fee. Please contact the church office for more information at (920) 733-7393.

Upcoming Church Office Closures Friday, December 23

Monday, December 26 Monday, January 2

Due to the holidays, the First Congo church office will be closed the Friday before Christmas and the Monday after Christmas, as well as the Monday after New Year’s Day.

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Calendar for December 18–December 24

Sunday, December 18 8:45–9:45 AM Worship, Sanctuary 8:45–9:45 AM Child care, Infant Room, Toddler Room 8:45–9:45 AM Church School Christmas Pageant, Sanctuary 10:30–11:30 AM Worship, Sanctuary 10:30–11:30 AM Child care, Infant Room, Toddler Room 10:30–11:30 AM Church School Christmas Pageant, Sanctuary 5:00–8:00 PM Refuge Recovery Meeting, Chapel 5:45–9:30 PM First Things First AA Meeting, North Fellowship Hall

Monday, December 19 2:00–3:30 PM ESTHER Communications, Upper Lounge 5:00–6:30 PM ESTHER Finance Meeting, Upper Lounge 6:30–8:30 PM Boy Scout Troop 8, Fellowship Hall, West Conference Room 7:00–9:00 PM Fox Valley Flutes, Computer Lab

Tuesday, December 20 7:00–8:00 AM Strong Bones, South Fellowship Hall 9:00–10:00 AM Strong Bones – Independent Practice, South Fellowship Hall 12:00–1:00 PM Communications Committee, Upper Lounge 4:00–5:30 PM Yoga @ the Congo, North Fellowship Hall 5:30–6:45 PM Chrysalis, Upper Lounge 6:30–7:30 PM ESTHER Transportation Funding Task Force, First United

Methodist Church, 325 E. Franklin St., Appleton 6:30–7:30 PM ESTHER Expo Fox Cities, Chapel 7:00–8:30 PM Adult Education Committee, Upper Lounge 7:00–8:30 PM Horizon Ministry Team, Library 7:45–9:30 PM Fireside AA Group, Common Grounds

Wednesday, December 21 All Day No Middle School Ministry All Day No Confirmation Class All Day No High School Small Groups 12:15–12:45 PM Loving Acceptance Meditation Group, Upper Lounge 4:30–5:30 PM Children’s Choir rehearsal, Choir Room 5:45–6:25 PM Youth Handbells rehearsal, Sanctuary 7:00–8:30 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal, Choir Room, Sanctuary, Chapel

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Thursday, December 22 7:00–8:00 AM Strong Bones, South Fellowship Hall 9:00–10:00 AM Strong Bones – Independent Practice, South Fellowship Hall 11:30–1:00 PM AA – Search for Serenity Group, Common Grounds 7:00–8:00 PM Fox Valley 94 AA, Common Grounds

Friday, December 23 All Day Church Office closed in observance of Christmas Eve holiday 7:00–8:45 PM N.A., Common Grounds 7:00–9:00 PM Al-Anon, Upper Lounge

Saturday, December 24 All Day Christmas Eve 2:00–3:00 PM Do-It-Yourself Nativity Christmas Eve Worship, Sanctuary 4:00–5:00 PM Do-It-Yourself Nativity Christmas Eve Worship, Sanctuary 7:00–8:00 PM Candlelit Christmas Eve Worship Service, Sanctuary 7:00–8:00 PM Fox Valley 94 AA, Common Grounds 9:00–10:00 PM Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols, Sanctuary

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Gifts for the 2016 Advent Display

In honor of Our gorgeous music, director John Albrecht and our organist Jon Riehle given by Sharon Radke Children everywhere given by Tom and Lou Ann Graf Our children: Andy, Beth, Jennifer and Nathan given by Rick and Sue Detienne Judy “Nana” Tonnell and Ken “Grandpa” Hocking given by Emily and Nathan Phillips The Slovick Family—Ron, Michal, Ben and Charlie given by Corydon and Laura Dean Friedrich Jean and Charles Wegner given by Kathy and Ellen Wagner

In memory of Carlton Lee Beyer, Joan’s Dad given by Joan and Steve Hawkins Adele and John Bowman and Marion and Elmer Gosse given by Karen and Dick Gosse Judy and Norman Clay given by Carolyn and Dave Frederick John and Christine Fitton given by the Fitton family Delores and Jack Frederick given by Dave and Carolyn Frederick Gerold Gerlach and Eva Herbert given by Jan Gerlach Rev. Harvey Kandler given by his family Carol Luther, Tom Luther and Nancy Luther given by Siri, Jeff, Cooper and Parker Witt

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In memory of Our parents: Roland and Genny Rath, and Lloyd and Marie Heinz given by Karl and Rose Heinz Mark Spindler and Connie Gandler given by Terry, Nancy, Emma, Audrey, Bennett and Caroline Van Der Loop Rollie “Pop” Tonnell given by Emily and Nathan Phillips

The Ministry

Reverend Dr. Stephen P. Savides, Senior Pastor Reverend Nicholas J. Hatch, Pastor for Youth and Family Ministries Reverend Jeannie Douglas, Interim Pastor for Congregational Life

Reverend Maynard E. Beemer, Pastor Emeritus John M. Albrecht, Director for Music Ministries

Jon D. Riehle, Organist Deb Burich, Director for Mission and Service

Kristin Underwood, Director for Children’s Ministries Joel Morien, Director for Youth Ministries

Jennifer DeWitt, CYF Coordinator Carolyn Frederick, Office Manager and Administrative Assistant

Rebecca Bentz, Communications Specialist Jane Malin, Administrative Assistant

Siri Witt, Bookkeeper Jonathan Steffen, Technology Coordinator

Tom Pflugardt, Facilities Manager Ashley Arnoldussen, Infant/Toddler Child Care Provider

Amanda Tesch, Infant/Toddler Child Care Provider Tiffany Lasecki, Infant/Toddler Child Care Provider

Kathy Kennedy, Housekeeper Tom Ott, Custodial Assistant

First Congregational United Church of Christ 724 East South River Street Appleton, Wisconsin 54915

Phone: (920) 733-7393

Website: www.firstcongoappleton.org