Dear Glen Mar Friends,

This Messenger is designed to be a bridge between the end of 2023 and the start of a new year. Endings are invitations to give thanks for what God has done and to ask for forgiveness where it’s needed, and to give forgiveness where we can. I give thanks for all the ways that Glen Mar has been a faithful part of the body of Christ this year and all the ways we have shown and shared the love of Christ. I’m grateful for the ways we have loved God and each other this year, in service, in prayer, in worship, in study, and in the “doing” of life together. I’m so grateful to be one of your pastors, to get to love and be loved, forgive and be forgiven, and to grow along with you as a follower of Christ.

2024 is a chance to embrace a new season, to connect more creatively and deeply with our neighbors, and to begin again in our relationship with God and each other! If you haven’t been to worship in a while, Advent (the start of the church’s liturgical year) is a great time to start! I know it can seem like “just another thing to do” but I promise, if you give it a try, you will be so glad you came!

Inside these pages you will find lots of information about how God has been at work in and through Glen Mar church and many opportunities to worship, grow and serve. In a world where the stores put out Christmas trees earlier and earlier, it’s not too early to make plans for this Advent and Christmastime, to make this holiday season something that feeds your soul. It’s not too early to reserve those Journey to Bethlehem spots (to be a part of it, or to experience it).

Come let our Savior prepare your heart—Christmas isn’t about presents—it’s about presence. May we have eyes to see and ears to hear the coming of our Lord—and may we have a season full of presence (with God and with each other).

See you in church,

Pastor Mandy