Crossroads Notes:

Advent Prayer A service of quiet reflection in the Taizé style Wednesday, December 12 – 7:30 p.m.           Come for a quiet oasis in a busy season, and invite a friend. This prayer service, following practices of the Taizé community in France, will feature quiet music, singing of simple refrains that become like breathed prayer, readings, silence, intercessory prayer, and lighting of candles.           This is ‘inspired’ in part by congregational input during the ‘Ways to Grow’ process, requesting opportunities to experience alternative forms of worship.           Planning this service are Kevin Hershey, Mary Anne McDonald, Millie Wiegand, Nancy Timmerman and Road MacDonald. Come A-Caroling ! Sunday, December 16 – 3:00 p.m. Fun for all Ages           Three o’clock will be the rallying time in the church parking lot. Join a caroling caravan that will take us to various places such as senior residences, nursing homes, and homes of shut-ins. If you have suggestions for places to carol this year, speak to Rod soon! We will finish by 5:30 or 6:00 with a simple but nose-and toes warming supper. If you’d like to be our host for supper this year, and you live not far from the church, we’d love to have an invitation. Otherwise we will share a meal at the church. It’s a truly intergenerational and heartwarming time. Look for signup on church bulletin board.

Christmas Joy Offering           Gifts to the ‘Christmas Joy Offering’ provide assistance to both active and retired church workers in times of emergency and as supplemental income. Fifty percent of the offering is used for this purpose. The remainder helps eight racial ethnic schools and colleges related to the Presbyterian Church (USA) with operating costs and scholarship aid to deserving students.           The Burlington Church traditionally donates the Christmas Eve offering to Christmas Joy. There will be envelopes in the pews in case you cannot attend that service. In gratitude for all of God's blessings and God's greatest gift, Jesus, let us give generously. Christmas Eve Service A Family Tradition with Crèche, Carols and Candlelight Monday, December 24 – 7:00 p.m.           It’s a long-lived tradition at BPC. There will be nativity tableaux vivants (or living scenes) featuring young folks, in the roles of Mary and Joseph, angels, shepherds and wise men. Choir and congregation will join in many carols. The service will end with a spreading of candlelight throughout the sanctuary. Mr. MacDonald will give a brief message. The Christmas Joy Offering will be received. This service is a wonderful way to introduce friends and neighbors to the church – and maybe to make a difference in their lives. Deacons Corner           If you will need help with heating costs this winter, now is the time to apply for fuel assistance. Joanne Stephen has applications available. If you would like to make an appointment with her for help in filling out the application, please contact her at 781-572-0219.