Message from the Pastor - Bob Bahr
This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, the time in the church calendar when Christians around the world pause and reflect on the wonder of God’s redeeming grace.
This week I want to take time to reflect on the “Wonder of God’s Relentless Love” for each and every one of us from John 1: 1-18. This Sunday we will also come together as the family of God around the Lord’s supper. This is a time for us to celebrate the amazing reconciling love of our Lord.
And as we gather I would encourage you to look around and take time to give thanks for the people sitting around you. St Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:16 St. Paul says: “Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16 NLT.
This is an amazing truth.
In the Old Testament God dwelt in a temple made with hands. But in the New Covenant God dwells in the midst of His people. Together we are the dwelling place for God. So, when we gather together for worship on Sunday mornings the living God tabernacles amongst us in all His Glory. He is the honored guest of our worship service.
On Sunday we will also celebrate the baptism of Feng Weng.
So please come with a heart that is ready to reach out to God and thank Him for his amazing love and grace.
Membership: Membership Recommendations: The Council recommends Lisa (Chen) Chen and Wil (Wei) Wang for membership in WVBC. If anyone has any questions regarding these recommendations, please contact Hilary Blair, Church Clerk.
Budget Chat: An informal budget chat will be held after the worship service this Sunday, December 3 in the Sanctuary; everyone is encouraged to attend. If you have any questions please reach out to Tom Walker.
Notice of Meeting: A general meeting will be held after the morning worship service on Sunday, December 10, 2023, in the Sanctuary, to consider and vote on the proposed 2024 church budget. The following Motion will be considered: “Motion to approve the 2024 WVBC budget. Moved by Tom Walker and seconded by Don Hill that the proposed 2024 budget as presented at this meeting be approved.”
Year End Donations: Just a reminder that tithes and offerings for 2023 must be in the office by December 31, 2023, or postmarked no later than the same date. Charitable tax receipts will be available once the year-end financials have been closed, but no later than mid-February. We will be sending the tax receipts via email so please be sure the office has your current email. If you want to know what your year-to-date giving is, please call or email Judy Thompson, she is in the office on Tuesdays from 10 am to 3 pm. jthompson@westvanbaptist.com.
YOUTH MUSIC LESSONS
Dennis Tymoshenko, a well-known, and accomplished musician, worship team member, and WVBC regular attendee is offering free lessons to the youth of our church training them in vocals, drums, bass, keyboards, and guitar with the goal of preparing them to join the worship team. Lessons will take place on Sunday mornings 8 am—9:30 am in the Stage Room. Email: wvbc@westvanbaptist.com for more information. The start date depends upon participation.
Events
Mark your calendars for these great events coming up.
