SEAGRAVE by Barb Martyn

The ‘Christmas Star’! On December 21st, the date of the winter solstice, Jupiter and Saturn will appear to align in the night sky, occurring as a single ultra-bright light, known as the ‘Christmas Star’. It technically occurs every 19.6 years, but the last time these 2 planets were this close to each other was in 1623. It is a once-in-a-lifetime event for us. Some have pointed to it as an astronomical explanation for the biblical ‘Star of Bethlehem’. For a glimpse, head out about 45 minutes after sunset and look toward the southwest. If you wait too long until the sky gets much darker, it will be too low to see.

Coincidentally, on the evening of December 20th, “The Story of Christmas”, Live Nativity Drive Thru, at the Seagrave Church, 15 Coryell Street, takes place between 5 and 7 p.m. This event is hosted by Greenbank and Seagrave Pastoral Charge. Perhaps you will be able to view the ‘Christmas Star’, before entering on the northwest of the laneway. Mr. and Mrs. Santa will also be in attendance. We encourage you to attend. We will follow all protocols.

Happy Birthday wishes to Ron Doble on December 14th, Clayton Smith on December 19th, Ross Short on December 20th, and John Olivero on December 21st. Happy belated birthday to Margaret Ann Lamb. Rev. Stephanie celebrated her birthday on December 14th.

We keep in our prayers, all who are experiencing health issues and having difficulties at this time, and send extra love to loved ones and caregivers.

Sunday service on December 13th was in celebration of the 3rd Sunday of Advent, with a candle lit representing ‘Joy’. Greenbank and Seagrave Churches’ children shared their talents, bringing ‘Joy’ to our hearts. The virtual service was absolutely brilliant, with a powerful, updated rendition of the Christmas Story.

The scripture reading was from Isaiah 61:1-11. You can view this inspirational service at seagrave-church.com or on You Tube. Also, on the evening of December 13th, a “Tinsel and Tears” service was held at Seagrave Church. This service is for those who have feelings of loss and grief at this time of the year. The service was serene, personal, and meaningful to those in attendance.

There is still time to send in your photos with a poinsettia in honour of loved ones, no later than December 17th, for the December 20th service. If you don’t have a poinsettia, just send in your picture and we will put up a picture of a poinsettia for you. Please include your name, and the name of your loved one. Send to Rev. Stephanie at gspastoralcharge@gmail.com. If you wish a virtual prayer, or various assistance, you can also contact Rev. Stephanie at 905-718-8086.

To bring ‘Joy’ to your heart, we do not need to be perfect, we just need to be united.

If you have news for this column, contact jean at 905-985-9921 or grammiejean2010@hotmail.com.

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