Primary Media
A swaddled infant representing Jesus lies in a wicker basket lined with straw, their parents' hands resting on the edge of the basket.
Credit: © Photowitch | Dreamstime.com
Published On: November 3, 2022
Body

After Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the angel have been placed just so, Jesus is finally laid gingerly in the manger. There’s always a sacred pause at that moment, the moment when we are reminded that the power of all creation became one with us and changed the world through the most vulnerable among us.

The story of Jesus’ birth serves as a reminder that the Spirit speaks to us through the voices of those who are on the margins―those without power, privilege, and influence.

Through Mission & Service, we as a United Church commit to support those on the margins. Whether in our advocacy work, emergency response, or justice programming, your generosity helps us collectively act in the way of Jesus.

As a church, we are transformed in the process, learning from our partners and growing in our call. As our Creed says, “We believe in God: who has created and is creating…the Word made flesh, to reconcile and make new, who works in us and others by the Spirit.”

At its heart, Christmas is a celebration of new life through the birth of a child, the most vulnerable of beings. It’s ultimately a story about hope. Hope that the Spirit will come to life even in the most challenging times and that something sacred will be born anew because of it.

“I have hope that what Jesus promised us is true. Hope that wherever two or three of us are gathered in the name of Creator that our prayers will be heard…. When we stay in the place of hope, we are creative and can solve problems really, really well. Thanks be to the Creator for that because, together, we have some work to do,” says Moderator Carmen Lansdowne.

If you haven’t already, please consider giving to our Christmas appeal. Thank you for your generosity through Mission & Service―and for all the work that can be done and all the hope that is born as a result.

May God’s wonder and grace enfold you and those you love this Christmas season.

View and share our short Christmas appeal video and Christmas prayer. A ChristmasDay Service for Mission & Service is also available for communities of faith.