JANUARY 5TH PARISH EVENTS CELEBRATE EPIPHANY

The first day after the twelve days of Christmas is the Feast of the Epiphany which celebrates our Lord being made manifest to the world. The cental Biblical story for this feast is the arrival of the Magi and their three gifts. In addition to the family breakfast at 9 a.m. on Sunday, January 5th, there will be time for a family craft to mark the beginning of the great season of Epiphany. Regular Sunday School classes for preschool through adult begin at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 12th.

The presentation of Mark Patterson's "Light of the World" takes place Sunday, January 5th during the 10:30 service. This special Epiphany Pageant tells the Christmas story with traditional carols, narration and dramatization. It captures the true spirit of the season by emphasizing the gift of Jesus as the "Light of the World."

PARISH LASAGNA LUNCHEON SET FOR JANUARY 19TH

On Sunday, January 19th the Youth Group is serving a Lasagna Luncheon after the late service. The cost is $6 for adults, $4. for children over 5 years and free for children under 5. The menu includes lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and homemade desserts. If you can not stay and eat at the Parish Hall, the youth will box up your meal to take home for later.

FROM THE RECTOR

Dear Parishioners,

Over the years the Church has had a love affair with the star of the east. Perhaps it began with the star that was lighted as kings approached the manger in the annual Christmas pageant, or maybe it's the joy of seeing one of the planets blazing white in the early morning sky. Stars have captured our imagination as they guided us around the world. It was the star of the east the Magi saw that lead them to bring gifts to the new born King.

Every so often we need to be led - to be helped in finding the way. The Epiphany hymn gives homage to the star's guiding role - "O star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright; westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light!" Thy perfect light is the Son of God, the Messiah; the promised one of Israel. The season of Epiphany honors more that the coming of the Magi it also honors the joyous news that Jesus is the savior of the entire world.

In the new year look for the star of the east. All of us can use a little bit of guiding especially by the Lord. It makes life easier and we don't get lost as much.

May the Lord bless you and your loved ones in the coming new year!

Faithfully yours,
Peter Worthington

MUSIC NOTES

Handbell Choir Expands

As we await the arrival of our 4th octave of bells, the Ware Ringers would like to extend an invitation to anyone wishing to try their hand at ringing to join them. More bells mean more opportunities for more people to ring. All ages are welcome. What 's necessary is a desire to commit to rehearsals and performances and additional evening practices. It is an event that will surely put you in a festive holiday spirit.

PRACTICE SCHEDULES

Junior Choir, 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.*
*Time may be changed

Ware Ringers, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, beginning January 8th

Senior Choir, 9 a.m.
Sundays

GIVING STATEMENTS

The 2002 giving statements will be mailed this month. Please check yours for errors or needed corrections.

GRAPEVINE DEADLINE for February is Monday, January 13th

VESTRY NEWS

The 2003 Vestry installation is set for Sunday, January 7th at 10:30 a.m. New members are Sara Delo, Phil Morton, Steve Parker and Rip Radcliffe.

2003 Officers are Kirby Smith, Senior Warden; Marvin Hohenberger, Junior Warden; Bobby Ray, Register and Pete Roane, Treasurer. Tentative meetings times are the 2nd Monday at 7:30 p.m.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN

The Episcopal Church Women's Book Circle has chosen The Red Tent by Anita Diament for its winter selection. The Red Tent is based on Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. The book is at the Gloucester Library or Twice Told Tales.

The circle begins with lunch at the Mungers at noon Tuesday, January 28th. Anyone interested is welcome to join us.

PRAYER GROUP MEETS

The Ware Church Prayer Group gathers for fellowship, prayer time and the Holy Eucharist. They pray for parishioners and friends of Ware. The next meeting is Wednesday, January 8th at 10 a.m. For prayer needs, call Jane Van Leeuwen at 693-3500 or Hally Baker at 693-2613.

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS