Belfry Notes

Dear Family, Members, Neighbors, and Friends,

As I write this, the snow is falling and a little bird has come to the window for a visit. Perhaps, she has come to remind me of the focus for November is on gratitude. That in the midst of challenge, more than ever, we need to focus our attention on the simple blessings in our lives.

This month, like all recent months, have been in flux and filled with uncertainty. We make plans and have to cancel. We find ourselves hoping, to yet again have to go back to plan B or C…and sometimes D. The last Sunday of this month begins Advent with the first candle of Hope. Perhaps, in this we are reminded that even as we are making plans and changing plans that there is always hope. Let’s face it, we’re heading into that place of darkness that always brings with it that subtle edge of primal fear. Advent reminds us that the darkness can not stay and the first candle reminds us to sit with hope. Hope and Gratitude.

A few things you can rely on this month. There will be Sunday services. Thus far, we are able to have hybrid services (using Zoom: this month’s link should be in your email box). You can rely on consistency that we will continue with services.

Each Wednesday of this month, there will be a weekly blog post to support you as we head into the holiday season. Things will be different this year, and change is always easier with a little help from your community. We’ll be offering ideas and things to think about along the way. Who knows? Perhaps, we’ll offer some Zoom Coffee Hour dates to connect with one another. Let us know what you think of that idea and, if there’s enough interest, we’ll plan some dates. You can find these posts on CCNOT.com (you may choose to sign up to receive blog posts in your inbox) or on Facebook.

We can’t say, quite yet, what our alternate plans are for the Holly Fair. We’ve been brainstorming, including ideas for a pick up (or delivered) Holly Supper and allotted times when you can browse the handmade gifts we’d usually have at the fair, but are waiting to get a little closer before we commit to anything. I do know that there are berries bowls in the making, so one way or another, you’ll be able to get those. There are loads of beautiful hand made gifts being readied for sale.

We also have the Quilt Raffle going (see image below). Tickets are $2 or 3 for $5. Reach out to a Dorcas or Church member/friend to purchase tickets. The quilt really is stunning and sized for a queen or king sized bed. We also have a baby quilt/basket to raffle, photos will post soon. Your donations support a good cause, supporting our Little Church with a Big Heart.

Look for Children’s Advent readings in December to remember to find hope and that “happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” (Albus Dumbledore). We’re also heading into the season of lights. Remember to do your part to light up the world. I strongly encourage everyone to put out at least one string of lights that people can see. It really does brighten the world. I’ve never put out lights near the road, but this year I will be sure to do so.

We wish you so many blessings as we head into a new month and as we head into the holiday season. Remember that although things may look and feel different, there are still wonderful things happening. May we remember to look on our lives with hope and gratitude this month.

Don’t forget to tune in (literally) to the INC (Interfaith Neighbors Connecting group) for the lighting of the first candle of Advent on the 30th. The candles will be at Mission Covenant, and we’ll be offering the first mini service on Hope to begin the Advent season.

Much Love & Many Blessings, Charlotte and CCNOT

Birthdays and Anniversaries:

• Jacob P. will turn 8 on November 21st!!
• Paul W. has a birthday on November 3rd.
• Max K. will have a birthday on November 15th!!
• Audrey’s birthday is on November 23rd.
• Ed D. has a birthday on December 3rd.

PS: Please let us know if there are any upcoming birthdays or anniversaries you would like posted.