Every year during the holidays we are reminded of how blessed we are to be able to gather together as the family of God here at Grace Church. Whether it be fellowshipping with one another in our corporate times of worship, attending our Fellowship Groups, participating in Men of the Word or Every Woman’s Grace, or taking part in a Bible study, it seems that there is no shortage of opportunities to be together, especially during Christmas. However, although these marvelous blessings are true for most of us, it is also true that the Lord doesn’t bless all His children in this same way.

While the majority of us are enriched by the sweet communion that flows from our physical presence with one another, others in our congregation find their richest communion with the Savior alone. Because most of us don’t have any impediments that keep us from being regularly together, we can sometimes forget that there are many others who, due to preventative circumstances such as health, age, or accident, are homebound for the holidays. They love the Lord, they love our church, and they are faithful to participate in our livestream ministry, but they are unable to be among us physically.

Though most of our homebound saints have family and friends that are allowed to visit them during this time of year, it is often the case that those they know and love are not believers. They are, therefore, not always able to experience the personal Christian fellowship that so many of us take for granted. Because of this, Christmas time is almost always a challenge. It is our desire that these precious members, though removed from the rhythms of weekly fellowship, are loved with the same kindred affection as those of us who are able to easily and frequently gather together.

To that end, we would like to invite all those who would like to participate in this congregational care ministry to send a Christmas card to our homebound saints. Simply make or write a card with your own creative touch to one or more of the members listed, making sure to write the name of the homebound saint in the center of the card, and we can do the rest. Hand your cards in at the Office Center through December 29, and we’ll deliver these special messages of encouragement through the holiday season. If you would like to send your Christmas card yourself, contact Pastor Rick McLean at 818-909-5519 for the relevant mailing address.