I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but a lot is happening at Park—and that’s a good thing! So, if you don’t mind, I’d like to use this space today to highlight a few things you will want to know.
But first, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the four people who made our Faith & Politics series a blessing for all us. Louis Smith, Steven Belton, Sharon Sayles Belton, and Curtiss DeYoung are faithful members of Park, insightful thinkers, and profound witnesses to us and our world. Their messages on how our faith offers a way forward were rich, beautiful, biblical, and challenging. I think you’ll agree they each deserve our deepest thanks for helping us navigate this season.
You can catch up here if you missed any of the important messages — each is truly a gift to our community:
- Louis Smith’s Message
- Minister Steven Belton’s Message
- Sharon Sayles Belton’s Message
- Rev. Dr. Curtiss Deyoung’s Message
Now, here’s what’s happening at Park.
A Place to Belong: Our Estimated Giving Campaign
As part of our journey into the holiday season, we’re also moving forward with our fall Estimated Giving campaign, “A Place to Belong.” This campaign is about more than just financial support; it’s a call to deepen our commitment to one another and to the mission of our church. If you missed my email this week, you can read it here and find out more about estimating your giving for 2025.
Advent Begins Soon!
Believe it or not, Advent is just around the corner, starting on December 1. This season is a beautiful time of anticipation and reflection as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Our services, special music, and Advent activities will guide us in drawing closer to God’s light together.
Warm Winter Wear Collection
Our Outreach Team is partnering with Cornerstone Ministries to collect warm winter wear (hats, gloves, mittens, and socks) for our thrift store customers and others in need. New or gently used items can be dropped off on Sundays in December—look for the collection boxes around the building and outside the Cornerstone store on the lower level.
Deck the Halls!
Sunday, November 24th, right after church
Join us as we transform our space for the Advent season! Everyone is welcome to lend a hand as we decorate and prepare our church for this special time of year.
Thanksgiving Pie Social
Wednesday, November 27, 6:30 pm
Bring a pie, enjoy some great company, and let’s give thanks together! This is a relaxed gathering that’s perfect for the whole family and connecting with others before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Blue Christmas Gathering
Sunday, December 1, 4 pm
The holiday season can be a challenging time for many, especially for those experiencing loss. This quiet, reflective service is a space to acknowledge our struggles and find hope together.
Advent Festival
Saturday, December 7, 10–11:30 am
Our Advent Festival is for all ages! Come enjoy crafts, music, and activities that help us enter into the season of Advent and Christmas.
Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 15, 4 pm
Our Christmas Choir Concert is always a highlight of the season! Come enjoy a powerful time of music and celebration with our talented choir.
Christmas Eve Service
Tuesday, December 24, 5 pm
We’ll gather on Christmas Eve to celebrate the birth of Jesus with a candlelight service. This special tradition is a beautiful way to remember the gift of God’s love together.
I am grateful for each of you and for all the ways you make Park Avenue Church the warm and welcoming place it is. Let’s keep showing up for one another and for our community. Looking forward to the weeks ahead together.
Much love,
Pastor Gregg
