St. Matthew's UCC hosts a Homecoming
LINDA KOEHLER/TIMES NEWS The Cramer family, left to right, Kristin, Karen, Randy and R.J., lights the first candle on the first Sunday of Advent at St. Matthew's UCC in Kunkletown. The Advent wreath is a Christian tradition that includes the lighting of one candle each week before Christmas accompanied by reading of scripture, prayers and song. The first purple candle signifies hope, the second-peace, the rose colored candle-joy and the fourth candle, which is purple-love. The white candle, lit on Christmas is the Christ candle.
In an attempt to entice members to return to regular Sunday morning worship services, St. Matthew's UCC in Kunkletown invited everyone to a Homecoming service on Sunday, Nov. 29.
Diann Bittenbender, Magen Snyder, Renee Keiper, Devoe Breinich, Mark Bittenbender and Cody Eckhart presented a puppet show, titled "Stand Firm." The message was to build a firm foundation, trusting God, resisting peer pressure while learning to stand firm through life's storms.
Diann Bittenbender did an outstanding job of making many of the puppets and costumes for existing puppets.
Special music was led by The Praise Band, and RJ Cramer sang a solo.
It was also the first Sunday in Advent. The Cramer family led the lighting of the first candle for Advent.
After the service, members were invited to hang white crocheted angels on the Christmas tree. Many were purchased before the service and people placed pictures of family and loved ones in a special insert. Others wrote names of family and loved ones to honor and in remembrance.
Afterward, a delicious brunch was served, made and hosted by the In-Betweeners.
St. Matthew's UCC is over 230 years old, rich in history and community service. The church extends an invitation to everyone to come and worship with them every Sunday at 9 a.m. under the ministering of the Rev. Joseph Lachcik. There are Sunday School classes for all ages which begin at 10:30 a.m. every week.
For more information, visit its website at www.stmattsucc.com or call (610) 381-2442.
