As a caregiver for my elderly mother, I am always thinking of ways to help her stay physically and mentally healthy. I am fortunate to have friends in the same position and we share our ideas and research. There is much emphasis lately on the positive effects on the brain for those exposed to music, art, and poetry. Whether actively participating in, or merely listening to music, the brain is stimulated to release endorphins and antibodies which are good for our health and magic for our souls.
Upon hearing a beloved hymn or childhood prayer, patients with Alzheimers often break forth in perfect recitation or song. Good things happen to our health listening to any kind of music. Heartbreakingly sad, happy, or extremely energetic music has a positive effect to energize the brain.
This year, St. John's Church sponsored a concert series titled "Music to Soothe the Soul" and it did just that. Our church was packed with happy people and the air was full of electricity. Let's keep doing it - join a choir (hint), go to concerts, sing in the shower, and don't stop doing it. Cheers to good health, helping others who need it, and thanks to God for this St. John's family.
Peace, Halyna
UPCOMING EVENTS
THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT ST. JOHN'S
Cherry Brook Eucharist - The second Tuesday of every month at 3:30pm we will join with residents of Cherry Brook to celebrate the season. Communion and fellowship will be shared. Please join us! Cherry Brook Holiday Gifts - Many residents of Cherry Brook Nursing Home have no family and will not receive Christmas gift. Please join us in donating small gifts - slipper socks, gloves, hats, socks, calendars (wall & table top), sun catchers, and other knickknacks. The sleigh is at the front of the chancel. Christmas Flowers - If you wish to donate towards the Christmas Flowers in memory of or in thanksgiving for a loved one, please send donations to the office by December 19th. Flower envelopes are in the narthex. 2020 Pledge Envelopes are here - Please pick up your box in the narthex. December Collection - Jessie Tree
Quarterly Financials are available - Copies are in the narthex.
Save the Date Advent Reflection Series - December 15th, 22nd
St. Nicholas Celebration - December 22nd
Unified Worship - December 29th at 9am Office Closed - December 26th until January 2nd
Epiphany Pageant Rehearsal - January 4th
Epiphany Pageant - January 5th
Annual Meeting & Unified Service - January 26th at 9am
Winter Weather - Watch WFSB or visit WFSB.com for weather related announcements regarding cancellations. Please use your best judgement about travelling in inclement weather and be careful and safe!
Coffee Hour Volunteers - Show hospitality by setting up the coffee and bringing along a small carton of creamer and something sweet or savory to share, and straightening up the hall and kitchen before departing. Co-hosting with another person or family is encouraged.
Hospitality - Please be sure to check in on Facebook and wear your name tag! Help us to reach out to members of our community via social media and to remind us of the names of our members and friends.
Bell Ringers - Sign up to toll the tower bell for worship.
Annual Reports -All Annual Reports for our Annual Meeting (January 26th), will be due in the office by email or hard copy, no later than January 5th.
The Altar Guild will meet on Sunday, December 15th following the 10am service to prepare vessels for Christmas.
TREASURER'S NOTE:
Parish Finances YTD as of December 8, 2019 2019 Pledges $177,455 2019 Budget: $208,809
Pledges Received: $162,084 YTD Actuals:*
Pledge Goal: $165,743 Operating Revenue:$177,620
Difference: $ (3,659) Operating Expense:$170,575
Difference: $ 7,045 *includes all prepaid pledges
If you want to make sure a payment will be recorded this year, it should be received in the office by 10am on December 30th. Thanks to everyone for their generous giving. Thank you. Diane Hayes, Treasurer
To read Diane's Quarterly Report, please use the link below: