Privacy laws prevent hospitals from automatically in-forming churches of members admitted. You can eas-ily notify our pastoral care staff of a hospitalization: 563-326-3547 x211 or becky@stpaulqc.org.

Hospitalized: (*released as of Dec. 14)

*Rod Becker Beckett Nau Jenna Sondag Mary Staerk

Birth: Cahl Breuer, son of Brooke & Casey Breuer

staff connections

December 16 & 17 - Advent 3

Preaching:5:30/8:00 Katy Warren9:20/11:45 Peter W. Marty

Worship notes:9:20 am New members received; ChoraleCommunion served at all services

Readings: Isaiah 61: 1-4, 8-11; 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24; John 1: 6-8, 19-28

next weekend

PASTORSPeter W. Marty Senior pastorSara Olson-Smith Associate pastorKaty Warren Associate pastorKelsey Fitting-Snyder Pastor in residencyJoshua Kestner Pastor in residency Ron Huber Visitation pastor

COMMUNICATIONSAnn McGlynn Director of communicationLauren Brown Artistic directorBecky Harper Adm. asst. to sr. pastor Karen Holden Book Corner managerGriffin Rasche Communications intern

OPERATIONSTodd Byerly Operations directorPaula Durham Business managerJennifer Garvey ReceptionistTessa Hahn Business office assistantMarcia Robertson Stewardship coordinatorHarris Schneekloth Campus and groundsMatt Spencer Building managerJim Akright Custodial/MaintenancePaul Caldwell Weekend hostTerry Haru Evening hostRon Mullen Weekend hostJoe Wollett Evening host

LEARNINGRyan Bailey Director of faith formationKaren Strusz Preschool directorAndy Langdon Director of youth ministriesMichelle Juehring Director of children’s ministriesDana Welser Neighborhood schoolsTammy Hermanson Residency administratorTeresa Whitbeck Childcare team leaderMichelle Henry Youth ministries intern

MUSICChris Nelson Director of music ministriesBill Campbell Contemporary musicLinda Allebach Assistant organist Nathan Windt Chorale director Dan Pepper Youth choir directorKatie Casey Children’s choir directorSara Harless Children’s choir director Margaret Thompson Children’s choir directorKyle Schneider Contemporary worship assistant

2136 Brady Street

Davenport, IA 52803

563.326.3547

www.stpaulqc.org

December 16 & 17, 2017

today at st. paul

8:45am Preschool5:15pm WELCA leaders Bible study

MONDAY, DEC. 18

8am Madison Market setup8:45am Preschool12:30pm Madison Market6pm Blue Christmas

TUESDAY, DEC. 19

No Preschool/Winter break5pm Private event

FRIDAY, DEC. 22

8am Advent worship1pm Holy Communion & Carols3pm A Family Christmas Service5pm Holy Communion & Open Spirit8pm A Service of Lessons & Carols10pm Candlelight & Holy Communion

SUNDAY, DEC. 24

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 208:45am Preschool9:30am Staff meeting10am Book Corner open10:45am Preschool Cookies & Carols5pm Book Corner open5:30pm Adult Children of Alcoholics6pm All choirs rehearse6:30pm Confirmation6:45pm High school midweek recharge

December 23 & 24 - Advent 4

Preaching:5:30/8:00 Josh Kestner

Worship notes:Communion served

Readings: 2 Samuel 7: 1-11, 16; Romans 16: 25-27; Luke 1: 26-38

December 24 - Christmas Eve

Preaching:1pm Sara Olson-Smith3pm Family Service5/8/10pm Peter W. Marty

Worship notes: See front cover

Readings: Isaiah 9: 2-7; Titus 2: 11-14; Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]

THURSDAY, DEC. 21

SATURDAY, DEC. 235:30pm Advent worship

THE COLORS OF ADVENTYou might notice there’s some blue around St. Paul, especially near those candles in the front of the Sanctuary. In this season of red and green, it might seem odd to see blue.

Blue is the color of Advent — these four weeks leading up to Christmas. You might recognize the shade of blue as the color of the sky just before the sun rises. It’s that hue which covers the earth in those quiet pre-dawn moments just before light breaks into the world.

Like those early morning hours, Advent is a time when we keep watch for that light of Christ to break over the horizon. With ex-pectation and joy, we keep our eye out for Jesus, the light which shatters the power of darkness and brings hope to this world.No Preschool/ Winter break

9:30am Heart.Soul.Mind. Bible study12:30pm Private event5pm KnitWits6pm Congregation council6pm Centering Prayer6:30pm 2136 event6:30pm Open Spirit rehearsal

For information on Advent and Christmas happenings: www.stpaulqc.org/christmas

sunday, december 24

1 p.m. | Holy Communion & CarolsAll the glory of Christmas Eve in an early-afternoon option. Scripture and hymns tell the story of this holy night. Pastor Sara Olson-Smith preaching.

3 p.m. | A Family Christmas ServiceA participatory service for all ages, with traditional carols and a lively children’s message. Children and youth choirs sing.

5 p.m. | Holy Communion with Open SpiritThe Open Spirit ensemble leads Christmas singing with a contemporary flair. Pastor Peter Marty preaching.

8 p.m. | A Service of Lessons & CarolsMusic by the Chorale with candlelight.Pastor Peter Marty preaching.

10 p.m. | Candlelight Holy CommunionThe evening concludes with Silent Night in a darkened Sanctuary lit with candles. Pastor Peter Marty preaching.

God camedown that

we mayhave love...

Hallelujahforevermore.

Cameroontraditional hymn

December 23 & 24 | Saturday, 5:30 p.m. & Sunday, 8:00 a.m.Pastor Josh Kestner preaching.Christmas Eve parking: In addition to St. Paul parking lots & side streets, Madison School lots across Brady Street are available.

Childcare: During all services, the childcare room will be open for parents to use as needed. Childcare staff will not be present. Children are always welcome in worship.

WOULD YOU BE A CHRISTMAS GREETER? Welcome people into the warmth of St. Paul on Christmas Eve. As people flow into church, a hand-shake, a smile, and a cheerful greeting mean so much.

Could you spread some Christmas joy for about 30 to 45 minutes of your time before a particular worship service? Please contact Jennifer Garvey, 563-326-3547, jennifer@stpaulqc.org.

DISCOVER & CONNECT

SUNDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP: Please join others for coffee, doughnuts, juice, and conversation in the gathering areas on the main level.

A BLUE BOOK, “Welcome to St. Paul,” is situated in every pew near the aisle seat. Please take a moment to share your name and pass the book. As it returns to you, glance at other names and look for your chance to greet one another after worship. The warmth of your greeting can brighten the whole day.

NURSERY: We believe children belong in worship. But if your child needs a break, please assist other worshipers and seek out our staffed nursery in the “Kid’s Corner” in the Library Commons. Silent pagers available. For nursing moms, a designated room is available to you, just 20 feet left of the elevator.

CHILDREN: Children’s messages are a part of our Sunday services at 9:20 and 11:45 a.m. Special bul-letins are available from an usher. Worship bags for children are at entrances to the Sanctuary.

COMMUNION: The Lord’s Table is open to believers of all Christian traditions.Adults and children who do not commune are invited to come forward, crossing arms upon the chest for a blessing. Communion is distributed by a practice called intinction; please touch your wafer lightly to the wine. Gluten-free wafers are available at all sta-tions. Grape juice is available on Sundays in the pot-tery chalice at the station furthest left.

FAITH RESOURCES: A library and the nonprofit Book Corner on the main level provide wonderful re-sources for growing your faith. Check them out.

MEMBERSHIP: A one-session Membership Inquiry Class is offered once each month for those interested in exploring what membership at St. Paul involves. The next opportunity will be on Thursday, Jan. 11, 6:30-9 p.m. OR Saturday, Feb. 10, 9-11:30 a.m. Childcare is available on request. Sign up online at stpaulqc.org/signups, at the Info Center, or call 326-3547.

COME AND ENJOY A HEARTY LAUGH Sunday, Dec. 31, 10:45 a.m., as Pastor Marty reviews the year through the New Yorker cartoons. All other Sunday morning learning classes (for all ages) are on break Dec. 24 and 31. Classes resume Jan. 7.

children & families KINDERGARTEN CHRISTMAS PLAY: Today, Sunday, Dec. 17, during the learning hour (10:45-11:30 a.m.), the kindergarten Sunday school students will put on a Christmas play, an annual tradition at St. Paul. In the Chapel.

PRESCHOOL COOKIES & CAROLS: Wednesday, Dec. 20, 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary (note date change from last weekend’s Connections). Sing songs, have a delicious treat, and experience the joy of preschoolers at Christmas time. This fun morning is a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. Karen Strusz, karenstrusz@stpaulqc.org

CHILDCARE: During all Christmas Eve and services, the childcare and nursing moms’ rooms will be open for parents to use as needed. Childcare staff are given the day off. Children are always wel-come in worship.

youth CHRISTMAS CAROLING: Students in grades 6-12 will gather at church for a pizza dinner followed by an evening of Christmas caroling around the commu-nity today, Sunday, Dec. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. Andy Langdon, andy@stpaulqc.org

YOUTH CHOIR ALUMNI: All college and beyond former Youth Choir singers are invited to join the current Youth

Choir for worship on Sunday, Jan. 7. Gather to rehearse a favorite anthem, Who Is the Lamb?, at 8:30 a.m. in the Chapel. The choir sings during the 9:20 a.m. service for this fun annual tradi-tion. No need to sign up, just come! Dan

Pepper, pepper@stpaulqc.org

SIXTH-GRADE MILESTONE - DIGI-TAL IDENTITY: Middle school is a time of transition for all kids — new schools, new friends, changing bodies, and increasing independence. On Sunday, Jan. 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m., parents and students will talk about maintaining an identity that reflects God in our digital lives. Sign up online at stpaulqc.org/signups. Andy Langdon, andy@stpaulqc.org

adults KNIT WITS: Thursday, Dec. 21, 5 p.m. in the Church House Living Room. Knitters and crocheters are invited to share time over yarn as we work on ser-vice and individual projects. Don’t know how to knit or crochet? We’ll be glad to teach you. Belinda Holbrook, bholbrook@mchsi.com

2136 CHRISTMAS CAROLING: Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:30-8 p.m. at Ridge-crest, Davenport. 2136 is a ministry for adults in their 20s and 30s to be social, to study, and to serve. To stay up-to-date on 2136 happenings, check out the 2136 Facebook page at facebook.com/groups/stpaul2136. Rachel Evans, mightyrachel@gmail.

com

CC CONVERSATIONS is a first Thurs-day of the month discussion opportu-nity open to all, 6-7:15 p.m. Discuss faith, politics, and culture with Peter Marty through ideas inspired by articles and news in The Christian Century (CC) magazine. Watch for pre-readings for Jan. 4 session in the Dec. 31 Connec-tions flier and on the St. Paul website: stpaulqc.org/calendar.

SERVING IN THE CITY: This spring, take part in a service trip in the heart of Chicago, April 11-15. Volunteer in soup kitchens, local schools, and homeless shelters. Spend evenings exploring the city, eating at local ethnic restaurants and engaging in conversations concern-ing poverty & justice issues. Cost is $150, which includes all meals, lodging, and transportation. Sign up online or contact Pastor Katy, katy@stpaulqc.org.

A MARVELOUS GROUP OF NEW MEMBERS joins today, Dec. 17, at the 9:20 a.m. service. Find them in the Gathering Area after worship. Be part of their welcome through your own hospitality. Thanks for do-ing the favor of wearing a name tag and taking an interest in others you may not know.

HOLY BAPTISM: Two children step into the embrace of the Christian faith through holy baptism this weekend during 5:30 p.m. worship: Legend Ridenour, son of Cassandra and Carter Ridenour, and Lillyana Wilson, daughter of Jessica Primmer and Thomas Wilson. We welcome them into the Lord’s family.

THE BOOK CORNER is stocked with Advent books, devotionals, and calendars, as well as nativities, ornaments, children’s Christmas books, chocolate, and lots of gift ideas. The Book Corner will be open at 5 p.m. every Saturday and Wednesday during Advent. Check the sign on the door of the Book Corner for extended hours.

THE POINSETTIAS in our worship space are thanks to the many indi-viduals who honor or remember loved ones with these gifts. We rejoice in all gifts of love. You may pick up a copy of the list of contributors at the Info Center. Thank you all.

PARKING ON CHRISTMAS EVE should not be a problem. If it snows, our crews will be working overtime to keep the lots clear. Additional parking is available across Brady Street at Madison Elementary School. Lighting is dim there; use extra caution when crossing Brady.

OF SPECIAL NOTETHIS SUNDAY

LEARNING FOR ADULTS (10:45-11:30 AM)▶ The Songs of Luke (3 of 3): Prepare for the coming of Christmas by

listening carefully to the songs of Luke’s gospel. Learn why Zecha-riah, Mary, the angels, and Simeon could not contain their praise in prose. Judy Schroeder, St. Paul member and Valparaiso deaconess. In the Luther Loft.

▶ The Bible project: Using just one page of creative illustrations and diagrams, discover the key themes of each book in the New Testa-ment. Revelation with Pastor Kelsey Fitting-Snyder. In Room 208.

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LEARNING FOR KIDS & YOUTH (10:45-11:30 AM)

▶ Ages 3 & Pre-K: Main Level▶ Grades K-2: Upper Level, Friendship Hall▶ Grades 3-5: Lower Level▶ Grades 6-12: Lower Level

SUNDAY NIGHT LIVE (SNL), GRADES 9-12 (5:30-8 PM)SNL gathers most Sunday nights at St. Paul. It’s a strong framework for high school youth to live, grow, and serve joyfully. It’s also a fun place to get re-charged before school on Monday morning. This week, we will go Christmas caroling with grades 6-8. Andy Langdon, andy@stpaulqc.org, 326-3547 x228

NEXT SUNDAYLEARNING BREAK FOR ALL AGES: Except for Pastor Marty’s Dec. 31session, The Year 2017 in Review — New Yorker Cartoons, Sunday morn-ing learning classes for all ages are on break Dec. 24 and 31. Classes resume on Jan. 7.

This service of longing and hope, designed for anyone in who may not feel like celebrating this season. During the holidays, grief, illness, loneliness, and loss can be magnified. The Blue Christmas service acknowledges this pain, while offering hope and comfort for the broken-hearted. In the gathering darkness of December, anticipate Jesus, light of the world.

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 10:45 a.m. in Fellowship Hall

Thank you, St. Paul people, for your generosity all year long.

We share our lives and our resources as a way of loving and thanking God. Together, we make the ministry of this place alive! Every year-end offering and completion of a pledge commitment is beautiful. Thank you for helping us finish 2017 strong.

Noon on Sunday, Dec. 31, is the moment by which to share any remaining 2017 gifts. If you are a St. Paul member who hasn’t yet pledged for 2018, please do so online ASAP at stpaulqc.org/pledge-2018. Thanks.