On Sunday, December 2, following the 10:15 a.m. worship service the First Presbyterian Church of Verona will hold its annual Alternative Christmas Mall. The mall is an opportunity for members of the congregation and friends to give the Christmas gift of a contribution to one of over a dozen charitable organizations. People making a contribution receive a card acknowledging the generous gift in the name of a family member, friend, or co-worker.
“Many of us struggle to find just the right Christmas gift to give someone,” said Pastor Erik Spencer, “But giving just one more thing that will collect dust on a shelf doesn’t seem the best solution. These contributions not only benefit some wonderful organizations, but also make Christmas less frenzied for the gift giver.”
Organizations that will have display tables include the Verona Children’s Fund, Interfaith Hospitality Network, Mission work in the Republic of Congo, the Presbyterian Camps and Conference Center at Johnsonburg, Operation Cheer feeding ministry at Clinton Avenue Presbyterian Church, and many others.
Preparations for Christmas during the season of Advent will also include special music during the 10:15 Sunday worship services. Sunday, December 2 a flute ensemble under the direction of Becky Vega will play. Sunday, December 9 the church’s Junior Hand Bell Choir led by Minister of Music Charlotte Cunningham will perform. A special Candlelight Service of Christmas Music will be Sunday, December 16, and harpist Robinn Gordon-Cartier will share her lovely music on Sunday, December 23.
The church is at 10 Fairview Ave., by the corner of Bloomfield Avenue. Child care is available during worship, the building is handicap accessible, a sound enhancement system is available, and visitor’s parking is by the back door. All are invited.
