Dear FIRM Friends,
Never did the prophet Isaiah collapse fully into hopelessness. Despite so many challenges, he reminded God’s people that the dreary darkness they were experiencing would only be temporary—since “a great light…has dawned” that can overtake even the shadow of death (Isaiah 9:2). And when Jesus himself was placed into a debate to define his identity, he asserted that “whoever follows me will never walk in darkness….(because) I am the LIGHT of the world.” For us, that promise through the ages continues now! Despite our economic challenges, and regardless of any wait for recovery, God through Jesus Christ keeps on bringing LIGHT TO THE WORLD!!
This Christmas season, as so many thousands of our city’s refugees and immigrants are seeking to find their paths out of dark days, we heartily invite you to help those FIRM serves feel the warmth of Holy Light by celebrating the birth of Christ!
This year, FIRM is anticipating 600+ refugees and immigrants will join us on December 15th, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on our FIRM grounds for a day that honors God as “LIGHT TO THE WORLD.” At this event, participants will enjoy:
*FOOD from many cultures! (Russian borsch soup, hot Lao noodle soup, etc.!)
*SONGS AND DANCES from around the world
*CRAFTS that share the light of Christ’s birth
*GIFTS for all children through age 12
We invite you to JOIN US on this festive day!!
Also, would you please consider supporting us as we prepare for this “day of hope” by:
*Providing a Crafts Table (each with supplies for approx. 75 children)
*Donating Door Prizes
*Offering Wrapped Gifts for Children, Labelled by Age and Gender?
*Performing with Others on our Stage (through song or dance)
*Baking COOKIES to share “American Holiday Culture”
*Offering a Cash Donation to Assist in Covering Event Costs
*Attending and Offering Your FRIENDSHIP!!
Please see and share the event flyer included. If you or others are interested to participate, please call the FIRM office at 487-1500, or Sharon’s direct line at 487-1509. (I’ll be on a mission trip to Laos through Nov. 18th, so you may either talk with others, or send an e-mail to: [email protected]. Or, I will contact you upon return.)
We are looking forward to sharing the LIGHT of Christmas Hope with you!!
Blessings of the Season,