Merry Christmas

Christmas Eve worship at The Gathering this year held many firsts for me, and is one that I will remember for a long time. It was the first time we worshipped at our Clayton site (2 & 11 pm). It is the first time we have ever had to set up chairs in the entryway and narthex at McCausland (4 pm). It is the first time I have preached 5 times in one day (and I was energized at the end). It was the first time many of you joined us for Christmas Eve (especially since we had an early one this year). It is the first time we have topped 1250 people in worship (the number was near 1300). While I do not yet have a final count on the offering, I have a feeling another first is coming in that area too. I will share that news next week. Most importantly, it is the first time that some of you have really paid attention to what God might be doing in your life. It was, by all accounts, memorable for me.

I want to thank all of you that volunteered and served at one of the services this Christmas Eve. I know that meant juggling schedules a bit, but I thank you. What is cool is every year the people who serve tell me that volunteering at one of our worship services is one of the most meaningful things they could do on this night. I also want to thank everyone who came to one of our worship services and brought friends and family. It is an honor that The Gathering is a church you want to invite others you love to experience. If any of you are reading this for the first time, I am glad that you worshiped with us. I have been praying for you this week, especially that Christmas Eve may be a turning point in your journey. For all of you, I want to invite you back.

I hope that as 2011 closes, and a new year begins, you will join me for worship regularly. We have a chance, through this church, to create something lasting and meaningful in St. Louis. As we grow, and invite others, our power to shape and bring positive change to the city increases. In the new year, I will begin a series called A Complicated Life: The Story of David. It is about how God used King David for great purposes, despite his flaws and shortcomings. I am confident that God can also use each of us, no matter what baggage we may be carrying. Thank you again for your commitment to our church and I look forward to seeing you in January.

Peace+
Matt Miofsky