Do You See Who I See?
SUNDAY BULLETIN | December 14, 2025
Join us this Advent season for a thought-provoking sermon titled "Do You See Who I See?" as we explore the profound theme of immigration through the lens of faith. Together, we'll revisit the story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, noting parallels to the experiences of immigrants today. We will consider the importance of seeing beyond borders and recognizing the dignity and humanity in every individual. Prepare to open your hearts and minds as we embrace the spirit of compassion and understanding this Advent, celebrating the sacred diversity of God's creation. In reflecting on these timeless truths, we will be challenged to live out our faith in ways that welcome the stranger and extend hospitality to all. May this gathering remind us that the Advent story is not only about waiting, but also about acting with courage and love in our communities. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen our faith and engage with the world around us.
| ORDER OF SERVICE | |
|---|---|
| Welcome and announcements | Rev. Richard Brendan |
| Stepping Stones | LeaAnn Koekenberg |
| Song: "Do You Hear What I Hear?" | Written by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne | Doran Nash |
| Words of Welcome, Advent Wreath & Devotional Moment | Mary & Lynn Broaddus |
| Centering Music | |
| Prayer | Marci Struble |
| Harvest Basket | Marci Struble |
| Song: “Streets of Indy” | Adapted by Andrew Holmes from “Streets of London” written by Ralph McTell | Caroline Smith & Doran Nash |
| Message | Pastor Sarah Lund |
| Song: “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” | Written by Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati, Harry Simeone, Ian Fraser, Larry Grossman, Alan Kohan. | Dave Bradley & Michael Read |
| Closing | Rev. Richard Brendan |
House vocalist sponsored by:
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Luke 2:1-7
DEVOTIONAL MOMENT
As we journey towards Christmas,
let us not lose sight of the profound joy
that this season represents.
Let us remember the courageous shepherd boy,
who, despite his humble status,
boldly proclaimed the joy found in Jesus
to those in authority.
In the week ahead,
consider where you can carry this message of joy
into the challenges that we face.
How might we, like the shepherd boy,
share the light of joy with others,
inspiring hope and brightness in our world?
Together, let us spread the message of joy
that the Christ child brings,
illuminating our lives and the lives of those around us.
| OUR SERVING TEAMS: | |
|---|---|
| The Good Earth Band | Music Director: Doran Nash; Keyboards - Michael Read; Guitar - Michael Clark; Drums - Mike Kessler |
| Creative Team | Creative Director: Dave Bradley, Betty Brandt, Becky Cheetham, Christina Fidone, Joleen House, Kimberly Morgan, Doran Nash, Marci Struble |
| Hospitality Team | Hospitality Director: Tricia Frye, Kevin & Jessica Young, Konnie & John Schlechte, Tom Ford, Shannon Robinson, Beth Young |
| Technical Team | Technical Director: Scott Carroll, Matthew Vire, Tom Ford, Arcy Clark, Jaco Carroll |
| Stepping Stones | Program Coordinator: LeaAnn Koekenberg |
OPPORTUNITIES:
List of Services
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Dec 14 - TOGETHER TO GATHER
Happiness, resilience, connection, and kindness are skills that can be taught and practiced. That’s why UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center launched Greater Good in Action. In 7 minutes a day for 7 days, discover which micro-acts of JOY work best for you, and be part of the largest-ever citizen science project on JOY. Come find out about the Big Joy Project and how you can build the skill of finding joy by devoting 7 minutes a day for 7 days.
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Dec 15 - PRAYER VIGIL FOR IMMIGRANT JUSTICE
Faith leaders will hold a prayer vigil for immigrants at Grace United Methodist Church in Kokomo The indoor gathering will feature Scripture, candle lighting, and prayer, urging compassion, dignity, and justice while raising concerns about immigrant detention. Community members are invited; clergy may wear collars and red stoles. For details, contact Rev. Chris Lantz (chris.lantz@inumc.org) or Rev. Matt Landry (matt.landry@inumc.org). Monday, December 15 at 2 p.m., 219 W Mulberry St, Kokomo, IN. Hosted by The Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church and open to all faiths.
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Dec 16 - HELP DELIVER "END THE DEATH PENALTY" LETTERS
Members of Shalom Zone churches will gather to deliver letters to the Governor of Indiana urging the abolition of the death penalty. All letters written by Shalom Zone church members will be presented as a collective witness of faith and justice. Please meet inside the East door of the Statehouse and pass through the metal detectors before joining the group. Debbie and Dyke Wilson will be representing The Garden, and all are welcome to stand with them in solidarity. Take part in this meaningful opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to compassion, dignity, and justice. We encourage you to join in this important act of advocacy. Tuesday, December 16 at 10 a.m. at the Indiana Statehouse, 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis
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Dec 18 - MEETING OF THE INDY ACTION COALITION
Thursday, Dec 18, 6:30pm, Robertson Chapel, enter door #6, St. Luke's UMC, 100 W. 86th, Indy Join Indy Action Coalition for the final assembly of 2025 where the base will be updated on research findings and a plan for 2026 will take shape.
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Dec 18-19 - INDY WINDTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
Come celebrate the return of the sun, weaving stories and songs together for a night that ranges from meditative to raucous–all of it deeply powerful and joyous. It's more than a performance, it's more than a worship service: It's a feast. Family-friendly, non-denominational. Thursday & Friday, December 18 & 19, 7pm, doors open at 6:30pm, Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis, 615 W. 43rd, Indy, no tickets, free will offering, bring finger food for the pitch-in celebration.
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Dec 21 - CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR PATTI READ
A celebration of life service for Patti Duckworth Read, beloved spouse of Michael Read, passionate Gardener, and former GLT member, will be held on Sunday, December 21 from 2-6 p.m., with a service to begin at 2:30 at VisionLoft Stutz, 1060 N Capitol Ave Ste 1-102, Indianapolis.
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Dec 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
The Garden and FCIndy will share a Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m. Come enjoy the music!



