STORIES OF LIFE AND
503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75080 972.235.8385 fumcr.com
Senior Pastor Dr. Clayton Oliphint
Director of Communications Kristen Ceaser Managing Editor Francy Collins
Graphic Designer Kyle Henson
Communications & Media Team
Kevin Burns
Ben Chamness
Eric Czechowski
Rohini Drake
Shandon Klein
Leslie Kring
Tyler Payne Mallory Pickering
First Connections (USPS 022-024) is published five times a year by First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N. Central Expressway, Richardson, TX 75080. Periodicals postage paid at Richardson, TX and additional mailing offices.
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Send address changes to: First Connections, PO Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75083-0877
I love a good story - the characters, the setting, the plot, the anticipation of what will happen next. Some stories never get old, and we often see young children happily listening to classic stories again and again. This Christmas, you’re invited to hear the retelling of a familiar story with child-like wonder: Jesus Christ will be born, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lain in a manger. This reminder of the miracle we receive in the arrival of Christ is at the core of our faith and offers new perspectives every year.
I hope you’ll experience The Christmas Story with fresh eyes and ears in 2022. Our Advent and Christmas Eve worship services will feature cherished music, the lighting of candles, and the themes of Advent highlighted through the experiences of those who lived it: Isaiah’s Hope, the Shepherd’s Peace, Mary’s Joy, and Joseph’s Love. Beyond worship services will be a variety of occasions to be inspired by the season. Our Chancel Choir will present a concert with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra at the Eisemann Center. Our Service of Hope, opportunities to give and serve, and other special events for all ages will offer additional meaning and depth to the story. I hope you’ll invite a friend to our glorious Christmas Eve candlelight services or any of the opportunities to join together in anticipation and celebration of this holy season.
In Christ, Clayton Oliphint
Families are invited to kick off the Advent season together! We’ll start with family worship to hear the Christmas story and learn more about the Advent candles. After worship, families will enjoy creating handmade treasures to celebrate the season.
New twist on an old tradition!
We are blessed to prepare bags each Advent season as part of our ministry to those facing homelessness. Our congregation members generously donated funds throughout October allowing us to purchase items in bulk for 1000 bags and customize them to the needs of recipient organizations. Children, youth, and adults are invited to join us as we prepare the bags to be delivered to local shelters the week before Christmas.
Sign up to help fill bags: fumcr.com/totebags
In this season of expectation, decorations, and parties, the sense of loss can be profound. We look to God for light and comfort, for the Spirit’s presence even in our empty places, and for hope.
may give online at fumcr.com/givenow
Founded in 1890, Methodist Children’s Home serves children and youth through residential programs on the Waco campus and Boys Ranch, transition services, foster care, and a variety of community-based programs throughout Texas and New Mexico.
Founded in 1985, Network of Community Ministries began during an economic downturn when several churches and community organizations came together to form an alliance to assist families in need. Network strives to live out its mission to care, coach, and empower our neighbors as they seek an improved quality of life.
Our special Advent Offering will be given to these dynamic organizations who are working passionately every day to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families. YouNetwork Mobile Food Pantry
