Church members participate in Advent as Christmas nears

Sympathy is extended to the families of Keith Daniels and Ethel Smith.

Members of Ideal Chapter 369 O.E.S. attending the School of Instruction at Amy Chapter in Galena on Dec. 1 were Beverly Davis, Margaret McDermed, Agnes Armstrong, Shirley Palmer, Clara Brewer and Dean and Effie Mitchell.

During the children's time at worship Dec. 2, Pastor Andy Smith presented Caitlyn Sampson with a Bible, a gift from the church. David Bruner was a welcome visitor. Mr. and Mrs. John Slater were in charge of lighting the first candle of Hope on the Advent wreath. Cassie Schwalm was soloist. Cindy Schwalm gave a brief explanation and history of the Advent season. Pastor Smith's sermon was titled "Steve 1: Who Am I?"

Joe Ludlum assisted the Pastor in serving communion at the close of the service.

Those attending worship services Sunday morning found the sanctuary beautifully decorated for the beginning of the Christmas season. The Schwalm family, John and Lorna Slater, and Pastor Smith were responsible for the lovely decorations.

On Thursday evening, there was a very inspiring candlelight service at the church, a time of meditation and quiet time with Pastor serving communion to those desiring it.

On Dec. 4, Cindy Schwalm took Cassie Schwalm, Lorna Slater and Lavone Page to Liberty, Mo., where they attended the Christmas program at William Jewel College. Jessica Schwalm was one of the students in the performance.

On Dec. 6, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Brillhart attended the Christmas party at Thayer for Mark's company.

Sympathy is extended to the families of Irene Elder and Goldie Koppa. Mrs. Elder was a former resident of the Pawnee community and Mrs. Koppa formerly lived in Hiattville.

Ideal Chapter members giving the funeral service for Ethel Smith on Dec. 8 were Dean and Effie Mitchell, Dewaine Geiger, Gayla Croan, Agnes Armstrong, Beverly Davis, Lynda Foster and Clara Brewer.

The Christmas Cantata that was to be presented at the Hiattville United Methodist Church on Dec. 9 has been postponed until Dec. 16.

The December meeting of the Hiattville United Methodist Women will be held Dec. 17 at 7 p.m., due to the icy conditions on Dec. 10.

December 9 was Pastor Smith's birthday. During a time of fellowship between church and Sunday School, he was honored with a beautifully decorated cake. The congregation presented him a gift and a signed card.

During worship time, Pastor Smith's sermon was "Steve 2: How Did I Get Here?"

Remember the church will be open again Thursday for a quiet time and meditation.