Pastor’s Greeting
Dear Friends,
As we step into a new year, I want to say how grateful I am for each of you. Every Sunday, every conversation, every small act of kindness reminds me what a gift this church family is. We may be small, but the light of Christ shines brightly through this community — and thankfully, His light doesn’t depend on how much coffee we’ve had before the service.
January always feels like a fresh start, and the story of the Magi fits right into that. They didn’t have everything figured out — they simply followed the light they were given. I think that’s a good reminder for us, too. We don’t need to have the whole year mapped out. We just need to pay attention to the ways God is nudging us forward, one step at a time. And if we take a wrong turn here or there, well, at least we’re in good company — even the Wise Men had to stop and ask for directions.
My hope is that this month, we’ll notice those little signs of God’s presence — a moment of peace, a meaningful conversation, a Scripture that sticks with us — and let them guide us. I’m thankful to be on this journey with you..

With hope for the year ahead,
Pastor Stephen
________________________________________
Feature Article: Following the Light
Matthew 2:1–12
As we enter a new year, the story of the Magi invites us to begin not with resolutions, but with revelation. These travelers followed a single light in the sky, trusting that God was leading them toward something holy. They didn’t know the full path ahead — only that the One they sought was worth the journey.
January often feels like a season of shadows, yet Epiphany reminds us that God still shines light into our world. Sometimes that light comes as a clear direction; other times it’s a quiet nudge, a Scripture that lingers, or a need that stirs our compassion. Whatever form it takes, God’s light invites us to move — to seek, to listen, to follow.
The Magi’s journey ended in worship, and they returned home “by another road,” changed by the encounter. My prayer for us this month is that we, too, would follow the light God gives us, trusting that every step toward Christ shapes us into people of hope, humility, and joy.
________________________________________
Pastoral Prayer for the New Year
Lord of Light,
As we step into a new year, open our eyes to the signs of Your presence. Give us courage to follow the light You place before us, even when the path is unfamiliar. Guide our steps, shape our hearts, and lead us toward deeper worship. May this year be marked by Your wisdom, Your peace, and Your transforming grace. Amen.
________________________________________
January Calendar Highlights
•    Jan 4 – Worship Service with Communion; Annual Membership Meeting; Annual Board of Directors Meeting; Lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the service
•    Jan 11 – Church from the Steps
•    Jan 18 – Church Service
•    Jan 25 – Church from the Steps
________________________________________
Spiritual Formation Corner: Small Lights That Guide Us

This month, consider paying attention to the “small lights” God places in your path — the subtle ways He guides, nudges, and encourages. These may come as:
•    A Scripture that keeps returning
•    A person who comes to mind to pray for
•    A need in the community
•    A moment of unexpected peace
•    A conversation that stirs compassion
You might even keep a small journal this month, noting one “light” each week.
________________________________________
Ministry Spotlight: Abbott Church Orchestra

This month, we shine a spotlight on the Abbott Church Orchestra, a group whose harmonious melodies bring a unique and uplifting dimension to our worship experience. Their music weaves together tradition and inspiration, creating moments where the congregation feels deeply connected to God’s presence.
The orchestra's dedication and artistry continue to enrich our worship, inviting all to listen, reflect, and be moved.
________________________________________
Scripture for the Month

Memory Verse: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” — Isaiah 60:1
Carry this verse with you throughout January as a reminder of God’s guiding presence.
________________________________________
Closing Reflection

May the light of Christ guide your steps, warm your spirit, and illuminate your path in this new year. May we, like the Magi, seek Him with joy, worship Him with humility, and return home transformed by His presence.
As we journey through this new year, let us remember that each step we take in faith is a step toward deeper understanding and connection with God. The light we follow is not just a distant star but a living presence that calls us to love, serve, and grow. In moments of doubt or challenge, may we find strength in the knowledge that we are never alone on this path.
Let the melodies of the Abbott Church Orchestra remind us that worship is a symphony of hearts united in praise. Their music invites us to pause, reflect, and open our hearts to the transformative power of God’s grace. May this year be filled with moments of awe and gratitude as we experience the light of Christ in new and profound ways.