1. Christ’s Birthday Observance 2015

2. This year’s theme: SHINE! Scripture: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” John 1:5 NLT

3. In the first five verses of the Gospel of John, the author re-configures the creation narrative. He places Jesus into the very fabric of the world. God said, “Let there be light” and that light was the light of the world. Jesus does not enter the story in the birth narrative of Matthew and Luke; he enters it at the dawn of creation.

4. Advent, then, is a time to prepare, not for tinsel and carols and presents, but for the moment the one who was present at the beginning of creation becomes present in flesh and blood.

5. On that night, the angels did shine upon the shepherds. On that night, the star did shine upon the wise men. On that night, the baby did shine upon the world.

6. This Advent, may we shine that same light. May the light that was present at the beginning of time and was made manifest that night so long ago, continually be present in this world. The light shines in the darkness, turning the darkness into light.

7. SHINE! THIS YEAR’S CBO PROJECTS INCLUDE: Church Planting & Redevelopment in Western Canada (with emphasis on the Vernon Church Plant) World Hunger & Relief Three Worlds Special Projects (Nachtigalls) A fourth project may be added by your congregation in support of a local church ministry.

8. What is the Christ’s Birthday Observance? The Christ’s Birthday Observance is a tool to help your church begin the journey of Advent with prayer, devotion, and celebration.

9. The 2015 CBO Offering Goal for the Canadian Church of God Ministries is: $50,000.00

10. Consider partnering with Church of God congregations all across our district to see this goal met. Please make cheques payable to: “Canadian Church of God Ministries” designated CBO

11. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and partner together with you in ministry. Canadian Church of God Ministries Unit #102, 4909B – 48 Street Camrose, AB T4V 1L7