Session Notes - January
The January meeting is usually devoted to organizational housekeeping, made more difficult this year because of the uncertainties of the pandemic.
A Word from Laura: Epiphanies
Before January 6 was known for insurrection, it was Epiphany. For almost two millennia, across continents and cultures, January 6 has celebrated aspects of Jesus’ birth: the star at Bethlehem, the coming of the magi – the coming of the divine in humanity and all creation! Acknowledging differences between Eastern and Western Christianity, Julian and Gregorian calendars, Epiphany is understood as the broader human recognition of God with humanity in the person of Jesus.
A Word from Laura: Christmas Eve
‘Twas the day before Christmas… and I changed what I was going to write. Yes, Virginia [and D.C. and Maryland], there is still in-person worship tonight at Western, although I anticipate seeing most of you on-line.
Session Notes: December
Your Session sat, by Zoom, for its last regular monthly meeting of 2021 this week. We finalized two big undertakings – this year’s stewardship campaign and next year’s budget – and go into 2022 with optimism.
As you’ll see elsewhere, we achieved our stewardship goal for member giving. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve been able to weather the disruptions of the pandemic. Recognition goes to our stewardship team of Elders Ari Brose, Jerry Hoganson and Becky Koenig.
We also approved our 2022 budget that anticipates, over time, the return of most of our congregation to worshiping in-person in the sanctuary (it’s currently about two-thirds online).