CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Christian Ed has had a great past few weeks.  Everything from lending a hand in cleaning up the church grounds, to putting on a Christmas Pageant. 

The youth group ran a successful Wreath Sale, which raised over $150.  We want to thank all those who participated - from the purchasing, to the decorating, to the tending the sale table.  We'd also like to thank all those who purchased a wreath - we hope you enjoyed them! 

On December 12, the youth group held “Cookies in a Jar” gift making activity.

The Christmas pageant was a refreshing tale as seen through the eyes of the manger.  It was written by Pat Rovetti, a friend of Carole Fanslow.  We'd like to thank them both for such a great gift.  The performers were:       Mary - Sarah Buttress             Joseph - Justin Beaudry

Angel - Laura Buttress            Shepherd - David Brezina

King -Jonathan Sanchez         Manger - Gabby ButtressNarrator - Vicki Buttress 

A special thank you to all the CE children who worked on making the special ornaments that were given out to the congregation - they were truly beautiful.

After the service the children were entertained by craft experts Gabby Buttress and Vanessa Sanchez - whether it was painting angel wings with their hands or decorating a stocking - they all had a great time, while Carole and singers entertained us with beautiful Christmas music - awesome!

The luncheon was a big hit.  Thanks to all who brought in side dishes and especially those who helped out in the kitchen, especially Dot Pickens, Marsha Piper, Flo and Dawn Brezina - everything was yummy!!

We ended the afternoon with a few visitors – St. Nicholas came and told us his story and read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” to the children.  He then introduced his friends - Santa and Mrs. Claus - much to the kids delight.  Fun was had by all.  Thanks to all who put that together - Robin Forgette, Bob Krakovich, Diane Henderson and Eddie Yeager.

We can't wait to see what next year brings.  So until then: Happy New Year - from your friends at Christian Ed

PASTORAL SEARCH COMMITTEE

The Pastoral Search Committee has completed the Church Profile and is getting prepared for the next step in the search.  The ad for our pastor position will be posted on the UCC.org website this week for all potential candidates to review.  The committee is preparing questions for the interview process.  Each week any applications received will be forwarded to the committee for review.  There may be only a couple or as many as 8-10 received each week.  It seems fitting that we are entering this phase during Advent.  Just as we eagerly await the birth of Jesus, we struggle to contain our eagerness as we await the calling of a pastor to minister to Unity Hill as we serve in Christ's name.

CHURCH UPDATES

New Address for Barbara Bailey:  Atria—Stratford  Room 328, 6911 Main Street, Stratford, CT  06614

(Barbara’s room phone number) 203-375-0122

Sad News … Jacquelyn B. Westcott Taylor, R.N., of Trumbull, beloved wife of Frederick H. Taylor, passed away December 13, 2011 in Maefair Health Center.  Survivors include four devoted children, eight grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to her family and friends.

Please remember our homebound in your prayers or with a note: Erica Aanensen, Barbara Bailey, Anne Brignolo-Hourclé, Eleanor Dooling, Mary Hassell, Eleanor Klimkowski, June Rutkowski, Ruth Schuler, Ruth Schwarz, Fred Taylor and Nellie Wirth.

NEWS FROM MUSIC DIRECTOR, CAROLE FANSLOW

News of our Choirs … The Senior Choir will resume rehearsals after Christmas on Sundays following worship—won’t you give us a try—we are always in need of additional singers and ringers!

Thank you to the Handbell Choir for providing the Prelude at the December 11 service.

FELLOWSHIP GROUPS

FELLOWSHIP OF UNITY HILL NEWS TO REPORT ...

~ New Year’s Day—3:00 p.m. The group will gather at the Fanslow’s in Stratford.  Those attending are asked to bring an hors d’oeuvre or dessert and a $5 grab bag gift.

~ The next formal meeting will be following worship on Sunday, January 15, 2012.

~ Community Suppers Program was on Wednesday, December 28 at Golden Hill United Methodist Church.  The group prepared a ham dinner with all the trimmings - Additional help is always appreciated.  Our next turn will be on Wednesday, February 22, 2012.

~ Plans have been announced for a corned beef and cabbage dinner set for Saturday, March 10.

WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP OF UNITY HILL NEWS TO NOTE ...

~ More than 80 women gathered at church for the annual Christmas Tea sponsored by the Women’s Fellowship.  In addition to women from Unity Hill, guests included women from Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Trumbull Congregational and First Church Congregational, Stratford.  Entertainment was by the Park Street Singers.  A free will offering was taken for the Center for Women and Families.

~ There will be no January meeting—See you on February 16 for a covered dish luncheon.

~ The group prepared gift bags for the shut-ins of Unity Hill for Christmas.

STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE

The Stewardship Committee is following up with our pledges of support for the fiscal year 2012.  We have received 32 pledges totaling $49,760.00 so far.  Our projected goal is $82,500.00.  We need everyone’s cooperation to reach this goal.  Thank you.