We are making plans to celebrate the Christmas season in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. As Christmas draws closer, we long to be reminded of the good news of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. We need to hear now, more than ever, about Jesus who is the everlasting light. We invite you and your family to take a special trip to Bethlehem, where “the hopes and fears of all the years” were met on that holy night over two thousand years ago. Come and join other Union Church families on Christmas Eve to hear the story of Jesus’ birth through the eyes of Joseph, Joseph’s family, Mary, and the shepherds. The Christmas Eve service will look a little different this year so that we can maintain safe social distancing. Our worship will begin at 5 p.m. outside the church’s main entrance. Then, in small groups, worshippers will visit two indoor stations where they will hear about that special night of Jesus birth. Worship will conclude outside with candle-lighting to the traditional Silent Night. We expect that the entire worship experience will last about 45 minutes. Hot chocolate and bagged Christmas cookies will be served at the conclusion of worship.

We hope that you will make plans to join us! Masks will be required inside and outside. We ask that you RSVP if you plan to join us for this family journey to Bethlehem so that we may properly prepare for the evening. Please contact Pastor Tom or Jess The if you have any questions or concerns.

At 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve we will be having a Traditional Service of Carols and Candlelight in the Sanctuary. No registration necessary.

Instead of a large celebration event, baskets will be delivered to impoverished villages surrounding San Cristobal. Each basket will include $50 worth of basic necessities purchased locally in San Cristobal, and we will also provide other items that people are in great need of right now, like hand sanitizer and masks. Guatemala baskets will now be collecting donations for the entire month of December because of the need. Donations can be mailed to Union or dropped in the offering (Remember checks must indicate “Guatemala Baskets” on the memo line).

Angel Tree still has about 17 gifts that need chosen. You can do this by clicking here to access the google document for sign ups. You can also contact Sinikka Davis at 412-788-9348 or Amanda Wodzenski at 412-600-9496 to sign up. Gifts will be due next Sunday Dec 13th. A drive by drop off will available outside the church door immediately after the service.

Looking for a mission project? Come and learn how to knit or crochet baby afghans. We just gave 85 baby afghans to Magee Women’s Hospital picked up by Medspeed and delivered to Magee and clinics throughout Alleghany County. They are given to the less fortunate newborns. We thank all of you who continue to give yarn and monetary donations, they are much appreciated. Call Ellen at (724)601-6268 or Loraine at (412) 452-0297.

The 2021 Offering Envelopes are available for pickup in the sanctuary.