PLUGGED IN

Spring Valley Family,

It’s hard to believe, but Trunk or Treat was only five days ago! Thanks to everyone who made it such a special day. I loved hearing John Tarver do his thing on the organ- including special renditions from movie franchises I love, from Mission Impossible to Raiders of the Lost Ark and Star Wars. From there, we walked down the hallways with hundreds of our closest friends- we moved everything inside due to cold, wet weather. Hot dogs were consumed, candy was shared, fun was had by all. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to bless so many! Earlier in the day, Rev Edlen Cowley, our District Superintendent, led us in worship for Commitment Sunday. To date, we have received 56 commitment cards, for an estimated income of $467,000 next year. It’s a good start; if you have not yet returned your anticipated giving for 2024, please contact Shirley as soon as possible: accounting@svumc.org

As many of you know, I was under the weather Sunday- masked up for worship and Trunk or Treat. My doctor set me up on antibiotics and told me to stay home for two days. It’s not been a great time to be away from church, since our new Worship Leader/Director of Music Ministries Derrada Rubell-Asbell started Monday! Even from my somewhat isolated seat in my office I hear his laughter as the rest of the staff has lunch together. I can’t wait to formally introduce him to the congregation Sunday morning. I anticipate being 100% for Sunday- our All Saints observance. We will read the names of Spring Valley members, family of staff, and immediate family of church members who have died over the previous twelve months. All Saints is one of my favorite Sundays of the year- perhaps second only to Easter- because it gives us a great opportunity to say and express in worship what we believe as followers of Jesus Christ.

Here’s an outline of our next series, “Plugged In,” as well as a preview for Advent and Christmas worship services:

Week 1: Plugged into Community- All Saints Sunday | Ephesians 2:19-22

The world has never been more connected, and yet feelings of isolation and loneliness are at an all-time high. Everyone has a place and are welcome in our community!

Week 2: Plugged into Jesus- Laity Sunday, Pat Christley, preaching | Ephesians 3:14-21

Christian community is different than any other group or gathering on earth because Jesus is at the center. We are rooted in God’s power and love. As fall programming ramps up and gets busy, this week we’ll learn how to be plugged into Jesus first.

Week 3: Plugged in for Others- Thanksgiving Sunday, Pastor Rosedanny, preaching | Ephesians 4:11-16

We are here for a purpose. When we plug in, Jesus fills our lives with meaning; but that’s not the end of the story! Jesus sent the disciples to go into all the world – and sends us to do God’s work too.

November 26: First Sunday of Advent (technically it’s not, but Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday, so we are allowed to stretch a little) Visions of Peace, Pastor Rosedanny, preaching | Isaiah 64:1-9

December 3 & 10: Second and Third Sundays of Advent Visions of Peace, Pastor Frank preaching, Isaiah 40:1-11 and Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, respectively

December 17: Choir cantata- YOU KNOW IT WILL BE AMAZING

December 21: Longest Night service, 6:00 p.m. Sometimes called a “Blue Christmas” service, it’s for those experiencing challenging times during the holidays.

December 24: Christmas Eve worship. 

Family service: 10:00 a.m. 

Servicio de Noche Buena: 5:00 p.m.

Traditional candlelight with choir: 7:00 p.m.

December 31: Second Sunday of Christmas

November and December are a roller coaster ride- things happen swiftly. And you need to buckle up! I am excited to share and enjoy these meaningful observances with you.

Buckled up and ready,

Pastor Frank