On Sunday, December 16th the faithful of Christ the Saviour (Harrisburg) welcomed Deacon Matthew, M. Elizabeth, Elias (6), and Genevieve (3) Brown. The Browns are in the third year at St. Tikhon Seminary, and were selected as our "FOCA Sponsor a Seminary Family for Christmas" recipients (they are also the recipients of our half tuition scholarship). Over the past few weeks our parish organizations have shown their love and support for our "adopted family" by fulfilling their Christmas wish-list. Deacon Matthew served with our parish clergy and offered an inspiring homily on how we are to respond to our Lord's invitation to care for those in need, especially those who we find it "difficult" to love. We look forward to welcoming the whole family back in the spring.

Following the Divine Liturgy our Sunday School teachers and children treated a packed-house to a Nativity talent showcase. Acts included instrumental, singing, dance, and skits. It was a blessing to see all of the talent our children and young adults have been gifted with being used for the glory of God! Each performance also prepared us for the upcoming feast of our Lord's Nativity. At the conclusion we were visited by St. Nicholas, who distributed gold coins to all the performers.

The time of our salvation draws near. Prepare, O cave! The Virgin draws near to bear the Christ. Be glad, and rejoice, O Bethlehem, land of Judah, for our Lord has come from you! Hearken, O mountains and hills, and lands around Judea, for Christ, the Lover of mankind, is coming to save those whom He created! (Hymn of the Forefeast by Cyprian)