As published in the Stratford Beacon, December 23, 2010
By KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Many interesting and exciting things have been happening at Knox over the past month. On Nov. 14 we welcomed Rev. Sandy McDonald to our pulpit for the morning service. Rev. McDonald attended Knox as a youth and was ordained here. He currently serves a church in Nova Scotia.
On Nov. 21 the annual Ease Into Christmas was held. This event helps get us into the Christmas spirit with great ideas on decorating, food for Christmas parties and fashion trends. Proceeds from this event go to support youth.
During the Santa Claus parade a troop of Knox members could be seen outside the front of the church with large urns of hot chocolate that was enjoyed by those watching the parade. Three hundred and seventy cups were served.
On Dec. 6 the Kid's Christmas Shopping Spree took place. Large tables of gifts for the whole family quickly depleted as the kid's filled their shopping lists. The kids left with their gifts brightly wrapped and bagged by the wrapping elves. Money from this event will go to Sleeping Children Around the World.
The new accessible wash-room on the third floor is nearing completion. This will be a great asset to Sunday School and Wig Room clients. The refurbishing of the nursery continues.
Want to hear the Knox Choir sing? Go to the following web-site and click on the red virtual choirs box and you can hear the choir singing as well as the Praise band.
The Alley Thrift Store Mission has had a very busy December. We are pleased that we have been able to help many local needs. Donations have been given to the House of Blessing, the Salvation Army, To Stratford with Love, Simple Dreams, the Children's Aid Society and the Rotary Club for Aquaboxes for Haiti.
Our store hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. We will close on Dec. 23 and reopen Jan. 13.
On Sunday, Dec. 12 the annual Sunday school and Youth Group Christmas Pageant was presented during the morning service. The pageant was written by David Strahan and directed by Colleen Rothwell. The Praise Band provided music for the service. The worship service was led by Allan and Nancy Rothwell A potluck lunch was enjoyed after the service.
On Christmas Eve a Family Service planned with children in mind begins at 6 p.m. followed at 7:30 p.m. by the Community Service of Lessons and Carols with special music by the Praise Band and Senior Choir. Refreshments will be served in the banquet hall after the service.
The Knox family wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Blessings for the New Year.
