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Welcome!9:30 A.M. - Sunday School
10:45 A.M. - Worship 
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ADVENT II / December 4 / Bulletin
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Ringing the Church Bell
Prelude Hymn - ‘Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming’ / Voices Together 216 Advent Candle Lighting / Voices Together 917 Leader: We light this candle as a sign of our waiting and hope for the coming of Christ. Hear the Word of God: "God is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? Wait for God; be strong, and let your heart take courage.” ALL: The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness shall not overcome it! Hymn - ‘Oh, How Shall I Receive Thee’ / Voices Together 215 Gathering Words Hymn - ‘Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus’ / Voices Together 218 Gathering Our Gifts/Offertory Moment in Mission - Stephen Ministry Children's Time Isaiah 11.1-10 Hymn - ‘Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord’ / Voices Together 219 Matthew 3.1-12 Sermon - ‘Preparing For What We Can’t Be Ready For’ Silence for Reflection Hymn - ‘Prepare the Way! The Prophet Called’ / Voices Together 220 Sharing Joys and Concerns Prayer, ending with the Lord’s Prayer Sending Words Hymn - ‘Blest Be the God of Israel’ / Voices Together 223 Benediction |
FACILITATORS
Musicians May Wang, Emmy and Mika Hagler, Gerry Leatherman Song Leader Molly Beiningen Worship Leader Stephen Obold Eshleman Children’s Time Joan Steininger Sermon Rod Stafford Stephen Leaders Joleen Classen, Tim Klassen, Karen Hartman Please Pray for...
Joanne Barta, who is serving this month with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) in McAllen, TX. Mary Wenger, for healing as she recovers from surgery last Wednesday. |
today's scriptures
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Isaiah 11.1-10
A shoot shall come out from the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist, and faithfulness the belt around his loins. The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze, their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den. They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. |
Matthew 3.1-12
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, ‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” ’ Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our ancestor”; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ‘I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing-floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.’ |
announcements
Congregational Meeting
December 18
The PMC Leadership Table is calling a congregational meeting on December 18, right after the morning worship service. The agenda will include two decision-making items:
1. a vote on three nominees for the Leadership Table;
2. a vote on the proposed budget for 2023.
The three nominees for terms on the Table are Colleen Milstein (three-year term as Chair), Melissa Burton (three-year term as Finance Elder), Barry Frisby (second three-year term as Outreach Elder). The Leadership Table is recommending that the Chair-elect position be left open to give time for a review of the roles and responsibilities of the Chair and Chair-elect, including the length of the terms. This will require a change to PMC’s bylaws and subsequent approval by the congregation, and the Table anticipates bringing a recommendation to a congregational meeting that will be scheduled in the spring.
A line item copy of the budget that the Table is proposing for 2023 can be found by contacting the PMC office for a hardcopy. (A link to an online file is coming!)
Everyone is welcome to participate in the congregational meeting. Only members will vote on the proposals.
December 18
The PMC Leadership Table is calling a congregational meeting on December 18, right after the morning worship service. The agenda will include two decision-making items:
1. a vote on three nominees for the Leadership Table;
2. a vote on the proposed budget for 2023.
The three nominees for terms on the Table are Colleen Milstein (three-year term as Chair), Melissa Burton (three-year term as Finance Elder), Barry Frisby (second three-year term as Outreach Elder). The Leadership Table is recommending that the Chair-elect position be left open to give time for a review of the roles and responsibilities of the Chair and Chair-elect, including the length of the terms. This will require a change to PMC’s bylaws and subsequent approval by the congregation, and the Table anticipates bringing a recommendation to a congregational meeting that will be scheduled in the spring.
A line item copy of the budget that the Table is proposing for 2023 can be found by contacting the PMC office for a hardcopy. (A link to an online file is coming!)
Everyone is welcome to participate in the congregational meeting. Only members will vote on the proposals.
Advent Giving Tree
Every year as we remember the gift of Jesus’ birth, we celebrate with an Advent Giving Tree. Grab a tag (or two) from the Giving Tree and participate in the kingdom of God.
This year our tags will be going toward the work of Family Promise of Metro East. We will participate in an important fund drive for them through the Willamette Week's Give!Guide. Choose a tag to take with instructions and links to donate. As the organization is just getting off the ground, they expressed that their greatest need is for program funding. So, our donations will go toward their general fund to keep the program operational. These are some examples of what certain pieces of their budget cost (possible amounts you could donate):
$5 ream of paper to print resumes
$15 first aid supplies for guests
$25 diapers
$75 one week of gas for the minibus
$300 move in supplies for a new home
Also, there are a few items you could purchase to give and tags for these will be in the basket beside the tree. Family Promise is an amazing new group that PMC has been working with this year to host families experiencing homelessness. To learn more about their program you can visit their website: www.familypromisemetroeast.org. After you have made your gift, you can choose an ornament to add to our tree.
Thanks to the PMC Middle school class for creating our tree ornament tags this year!
Tis the season to shop fair trade
On December 4, from 9:00am to 4:00pm
Just Cause will be set up downstairs. You will find one-of-a-kind gifts, crafted by artisans from around the world. And then to make your purchase even more impactful 10% of all sales will be given to Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School.
Join the Christmas Choir
We're back! After three long years we will sing for joy again this year to help brighten the PMC Christmas celebration. Join us to sing two to three songs on Sunday, December 18. We plan to practice during the Sunday school hour November 27, December 4, and December 11. Contact Bruce Kuhns or the PMC office if you have any questions.
Stephen Ministry Can Help
In times of stress, conflict, pandemics, etc, you can find emotional support from PMC’s Stephen Ministry program. To find out more about this ministry, or to inquire about becoming a Stephen minister, contact: Pastor Kristen Swartley, Stephen Leaders Karen Hartman, Tim Klassen, or Joleen Classen, or check out the web page at www.portlandmennonite.org/stephen-ministry.
NightStrike!
On Thursday December 8th, PMC will be serving at NightStrike from 6:45-9pm. NightStrike is a community gathering that mobilizes volunteers/services, meets felt needs, and develops relationships that transform lives. It is an opportunity for members of Portland’s homeless community to hang out, enjoy a hot meal, receive a free haircut or shave, have their feet washed and have their old shoes/clothes/sleeping bags replaced. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kim Bonner at kimberly.bonner@gmail.com by Tuesday December 6th.
Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School news
Thanks, PMC, for your generous support during our Willamette Valley Pie Sale this fall. We were able to sell 220 pies and raise $1,300! What a wonderful (and delicious) fundraiser. We're currently looking for some extra folks to help out in the SMMS classroom from 9:30-11:30. If you or someone you know would be interested in helping out one or more days a week, please talk with Paula Brunk Kuhns. SMMS is open 4 days a week, Tuesdays-Fridays.
SMMS Bottle Drop Bag Update
Thank you PMC! Total credits to Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School from BottleDrop returns is over $1500 in 2022 so far. Every full blue bag that you donate is worth $8 to $10!
—New to BottleDrop? Do you recycle your cans and bottles? You can support Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School with your recycling. If you will save your cans and bottles in one of our SMMS pre-labeled blue plastic bags (pick one up from the basket in the old chapel) and simply drop the bag off when full at any BottleDrop location in the metro area, the deposit money is credited to the school. Very easy and “no contact” required! FAQs about BottleDrop and locations at: www.bottledropcenters.com Any questions or if you aren’t able to pick up a bag at church, please text or call Anne Stites 503-887-7322
Are you looking for a truly unique holiday experience?
The Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland will perform the West Coast Premiere performance of Benedict Sheehan's "A Christmas Carol" with well-known narrator Susannah Mars. Set for choir and soloists, Sheehan weaves original choral works and familiar carols around the fabric of the classic Charles Dicken tale to create an unforgettable music experience. Join CAE at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church on Saturday, Dec. 10th at 7:30 pm or on Sunday, Dec. 11th at 3 pm. Adult/Senior tickets are $22 in advance at www.portlandschoir.org; $30 at the door. Students and Oregon Trail Card holders are $5 in advance and at the door. See Kris Voss-Rothmeier for more details.
Are you new here?
At Portland Mennonite Church everyone is welcome to join us as we strive to follow the way of Jesus together. Whether you are old or young, whether you are trying to figure out what to do with your life, retired, working, or looking for work, whether you are straight, queer, or questioning, whether you are single, or married, divorced or widowed, whatever your race, ethnicity, ability, sexual orientation or gender identity, you are welcome to participate fully in the life and ministries of our congregation, including baptism, membership, marriage, leadership and pastoral ministry.
Street Roots Vendor
A vendor from Street Roots, Christina or her husband Nathan, is present each week after our service to sell papers down by the entrance on Main Street.
Caring for Others at the Meeting House
As we head into cold and flu season, in addition to covid, let’s continue to be mindful of how we interact with others at church as it relates to masking and sharing air. Each person has their own unique reasons for avoiding exposure to illness, many of which are medically-related, yet they feel compelled to continue joining community in our physical space on Sunday mornings. Here are some ways we can care, demonstrate compassion and create a “safer” space: If someone is wearing a mask, assume they may want you to mask if you are near them. (They can stop you if they don’t need/want you to mask, but would probably will feel awkward requesting you put one on.) Allow ample space between them and you, especially if you are not masking. Allow a physical “way out” when interacting with others (let them set the distance, leave a way for them to exit their pew after church, for example). Thank you for your efforts to create a “safer” space for the variety of people and needs we welcome on Sunday mornings! - Lori Nussbaum
Quilting for MCC
All are welcome (including beginners who want to try hand-quilting) to drop in Mondays 9a-12p in the lower level fellowship room.
100 Year Collage prints available
Responding to requests, I've had a very limited edition made of the collage (please see the one hanging to the left of the original in the Old Chapel). They are signed and numbered and available directly from me at $45, unframed (12" X 16"). Happy Anniversary PMC! - Tim TK Klassen
Every year as we remember the gift of Jesus’ birth, we celebrate with an Advent Giving Tree. Grab a tag (or two) from the Giving Tree and participate in the kingdom of God.
This year our tags will be going toward the work of Family Promise of Metro East. We will participate in an important fund drive for them through the Willamette Week's Give!Guide. Choose a tag to take with instructions and links to donate. As the organization is just getting off the ground, they expressed that their greatest need is for program funding. So, our donations will go toward their general fund to keep the program operational. These are some examples of what certain pieces of their budget cost (possible amounts you could donate):
$5 ream of paper to print resumes
$15 first aid supplies for guests
$25 diapers
$75 one week of gas for the minibus
$300 move in supplies for a new home
Also, there are a few items you could purchase to give and tags for these will be in the basket beside the tree. Family Promise is an amazing new group that PMC has been working with this year to host families experiencing homelessness. To learn more about their program you can visit their website: www.familypromisemetroeast.org. After you have made your gift, you can choose an ornament to add to our tree.
Thanks to the PMC Middle school class for creating our tree ornament tags this year!
Tis the season to shop fair trade
On December 4, from 9:00am to 4:00pm
Just Cause will be set up downstairs. You will find one-of-a-kind gifts, crafted by artisans from around the world. And then to make your purchase even more impactful 10% of all sales will be given to Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School.
Join the Christmas Choir
We're back! After three long years we will sing for joy again this year to help brighten the PMC Christmas celebration. Join us to sing two to three songs on Sunday, December 18. We plan to practice during the Sunday school hour November 27, December 4, and December 11. Contact Bruce Kuhns or the PMC office if you have any questions.
Stephen Ministry Can Help
In times of stress, conflict, pandemics, etc, you can find emotional support from PMC’s Stephen Ministry program. To find out more about this ministry, or to inquire about becoming a Stephen minister, contact: Pastor Kristen Swartley, Stephen Leaders Karen Hartman, Tim Klassen, or Joleen Classen, or check out the web page at www.portlandmennonite.org/stephen-ministry.
NightStrike!
On Thursday December 8th, PMC will be serving at NightStrike from 6:45-9pm. NightStrike is a community gathering that mobilizes volunteers/services, meets felt needs, and develops relationships that transform lives. It is an opportunity for members of Portland’s homeless community to hang out, enjoy a hot meal, receive a free haircut or shave, have their feet washed and have their old shoes/clothes/sleeping bags replaced. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kim Bonner at kimberly.bonner@gmail.com by Tuesday December 6th.
Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School news
Thanks, PMC, for your generous support during our Willamette Valley Pie Sale this fall. We were able to sell 220 pies and raise $1,300! What a wonderful (and delicious) fundraiser. We're currently looking for some extra folks to help out in the SMMS classroom from 9:30-11:30. If you or someone you know would be interested in helping out one or more days a week, please talk with Paula Brunk Kuhns. SMMS is open 4 days a week, Tuesdays-Fridays.
SMMS Bottle Drop Bag Update
Thank you PMC! Total credits to Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School from BottleDrop returns is over $1500 in 2022 so far. Every full blue bag that you donate is worth $8 to $10!
—New to BottleDrop? Do you recycle your cans and bottles? You can support Sunnyside Mennonite Montessori School with your recycling. If you will save your cans and bottles in one of our SMMS pre-labeled blue plastic bags (pick one up from the basket in the old chapel) and simply drop the bag off when full at any BottleDrop location in the metro area, the deposit money is credited to the school. Very easy and “no contact” required! FAQs about BottleDrop and locations at: www.bottledropcenters.com Any questions or if you aren’t able to pick up a bag at church, please text or call Anne Stites 503-887-7322
Are you looking for a truly unique holiday experience?
The Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland will perform the West Coast Premiere performance of Benedict Sheehan's "A Christmas Carol" with well-known narrator Susannah Mars. Set for choir and soloists, Sheehan weaves original choral works and familiar carols around the fabric of the classic Charles Dicken tale to create an unforgettable music experience. Join CAE at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church on Saturday, Dec. 10th at 7:30 pm or on Sunday, Dec. 11th at 3 pm. Adult/Senior tickets are $22 in advance at www.portlandschoir.org; $30 at the door. Students and Oregon Trail Card holders are $5 in advance and at the door. See Kris Voss-Rothmeier for more details.
Are you new here?
At Portland Mennonite Church everyone is welcome to join us as we strive to follow the way of Jesus together. Whether you are old or young, whether you are trying to figure out what to do with your life, retired, working, or looking for work, whether you are straight, queer, or questioning, whether you are single, or married, divorced or widowed, whatever your race, ethnicity, ability, sexual orientation or gender identity, you are welcome to participate fully in the life and ministries of our congregation, including baptism, membership, marriage, leadership and pastoral ministry.
Street Roots Vendor
A vendor from Street Roots, Christina or her husband Nathan, is present each week after our service to sell papers down by the entrance on Main Street.
Caring for Others at the Meeting House
As we head into cold and flu season, in addition to covid, let’s continue to be mindful of how we interact with others at church as it relates to masking and sharing air. Each person has their own unique reasons for avoiding exposure to illness, many of which are medically-related, yet they feel compelled to continue joining community in our physical space on Sunday mornings. Here are some ways we can care, demonstrate compassion and create a “safer” space: If someone is wearing a mask, assume they may want you to mask if you are near them. (They can stop you if they don’t need/want you to mask, but would probably will feel awkward requesting you put one on.) Allow ample space between them and you, especially if you are not masking. Allow a physical “way out” when interacting with others (let them set the distance, leave a way for them to exit their pew after church, for example). Thank you for your efforts to create a “safer” space for the variety of people and needs we welcome on Sunday mornings! - Lori Nussbaum
Quilting for MCC
All are welcome (including beginners who want to try hand-quilting) to drop in Mondays 9a-12p in the lower level fellowship room.
100 Year Collage prints available
Responding to requests, I've had a very limited edition made of the collage (please see the one hanging to the left of the original in the Old Chapel). They are signed and numbered and available directly from me at $45, unframed (12" X 16"). Happy Anniversary PMC! - Tim TK Klassen
upcoming events
Adult Book Study November 20 - December 18, 9:30 am
The Racial Justice Committee is hosting a Sunday morning class based on the book DEAR WHITE PEACEMAKERS, by Osheta Moore. Written in the wake of George Floyd’s death, Dear White Peacemakers draws on the Sermon on the Mount, Spirituals, and personal stories from author Osheta Moore’s work as a pastor in St. Paul, Minnesota. Enter into this story of shalom and join in the urgent work of anti-racism peacemaking. Website: osheta.com. You can pick up a book in the PMC office (pay what you can). We will talk about chapters 6-11 on Sunday (November 27). The class will meet in-person and online. (Zoom link)
Advent Workshop December 3 / 10:30 a.m.—Noon
Advent Workshop has a rich tradition here at PMC. Our church basement is transformed into a holiday workshop, with stations to build gingerbread houses, make candles, and create ornaments. Combine all this with the smells of cookies, fresh coffee, hot cider, the sounds of Christmas music, the laughter of children and the smiles of good friends and Advent Workshop is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Do you want to help make it Happen? Volunteer opportunities are here!
‘Somehow, Peace’ December 16 / 7:00-8:00 pm
Frans and Kathy van der Horst will present an evening of stories and songs. The event is free. Contributions to Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) are welcome. (The performance will be streamed on our PMC YouTube channel.)
Longest Night Service December 21 / 7-8 pm
Join us as we will gather for a service of readings, meditative music, silence and prayers. We will bring our grief, sadness and pain, trusting that the darkness cannot overcome the light of Christ's love (John 1.5).
Christmas Eve December 24 / 6:30 p.m.
Join us as we hear the story of Christ's birth and sing with the angels 'Glory to the newborn king!'
The Racial Justice Committee is hosting a Sunday morning class based on the book DEAR WHITE PEACEMAKERS, by Osheta Moore. Written in the wake of George Floyd’s death, Dear White Peacemakers draws on the Sermon on the Mount, Spirituals, and personal stories from author Osheta Moore’s work as a pastor in St. Paul, Minnesota. Enter into this story of shalom and join in the urgent work of anti-racism peacemaking. Website: osheta.com. You can pick up a book in the PMC office (pay what you can). We will talk about chapters 6-11 on Sunday (November 27). The class will meet in-person and online. (Zoom link)
Advent Workshop December 3 / 10:30 a.m.—Noon
Advent Workshop has a rich tradition here at PMC. Our church basement is transformed into a holiday workshop, with stations to build gingerbread houses, make candles, and create ornaments. Combine all this with the smells of cookies, fresh coffee, hot cider, the sounds of Christmas music, the laughter of children and the smiles of good friends and Advent Workshop is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Do you want to help make it Happen? Volunteer opportunities are here!
‘Somehow, Peace’ December 16 / 7:00-8:00 pm
Frans and Kathy van der Horst will present an evening of stories and songs. The event is free. Contributions to Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) are welcome. (The performance will be streamed on our PMC YouTube channel.)
Longest Night Service December 21 / 7-8 pm
Join us as we will gather for a service of readings, meditative music, silence and prayers. We will bring our grief, sadness and pain, trusting that the darkness cannot overcome the light of Christ's love (John 1.5).
Christmas Eve December 24 / 6:30 p.m.
Join us as we hear the story of Christ's birth and sing with the angels 'Glory to the newborn king!'
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Land Acknowledgment
As we learn about the Doctrine of Discovery, we recognize that the land on which our meetinghouse is located and the land on which we live was previously home to Native American peoples who were decimated and uprooted as this area was colonized. The Portland Metro area rests on traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin, Kalapuya, Molalla and many other tribes who stewarded the plentiful natural resources in the vicinity of the Columbia River.
We recognize that the present day Native American community in the Portland Metro area is made up of people who originate from over 380 tribes from around the country.
We acknowledge the local federally recognized tribes; the Grande Ronde, the Siletz and the Cowlitz as well as the Chinook Nation, which has been seeking federal recognition for many years.
As we learn about the Doctrine of Discovery, we recognize that the land on which our meetinghouse is located and the land on which we live was previously home to Native American peoples who were decimated and uprooted as this area was colonized. The Portland Metro area rests on traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin, Kalapuya, Molalla and many other tribes who stewarded the plentiful natural resources in the vicinity of the Columbia River.
We recognize that the present day Native American community in the Portland Metro area is made up of people who originate from over 380 tribes from around the country.
We acknowledge the local federally recognized tribes; the Grande Ronde, the Siletz and the Cowlitz as well as the Chinook Nation, which has been seeking federal recognition for many years.
