Sean, our family, and I are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support you shared as we walked through Sean’s dad’s illness and death. Many have said this is an especially difficult time of year to lose a loved one—and perhaps it is. Yet it is also this season that reminds us most clearly that in the coming of Jesus, Emmanuel, God is truly with us.
In a season of long nights and short days, we proclaim again that there is no darkness that can overcome the Light of Christ. And so, perhaps this is not such a terrible time to face the darkness of loss and sorrow. Or maybe more to the point, it is precisely the right time to remember that whatever darkness we face, God is with us—and that darkness cannot and will not prevail.
I am sometimes asked, “Why should I go to church?” After all, people believe—isn’t that enough? Perhaps it is, if we are only talking about eternity. But what about life? What about navigating the grief, uncertainty, and darkness that inevitably come our way?
The promise of Christ is not only life in the hereafter, but abundant life now and forever. Just as we experience “God with us” through the earthly life of Jesus, we continue to experience “God with us” through the life of the church—not a building, but a people. That truth has never been clearer to my family than it has been in these past weeks. We encountered God’s presence through your cards, texts, meals, prayers, and presence.
Why go to church? Because that is where Christian community takes shape—and one of the primary ways God chooses to be with us.
As we enter a new year, perhaps you know someone who believes but is disconnected from a church. Invite them. Perhaps you know someone who is simply disconnected. Invite them too. So that together we may more fully experience the blessing of Emmanuel—God with us—in celebration and sorrow, and in everything in between.
That, dear friends, is part of the promise of abundant life here and now.
Blessings,
Pastor Christi
DECEMBER RECAP
Blue Christmas at Mission 25
Christmas Eve
Caroling at Parkview
MISSION UPDATE
“Do all the good that you can.” John Wesley
This holiday season, CCUMC has truly lived out John Wesley’s call to do good. The Mission Tree began with 67 tags and quickly filled with gifts, which were delivered to Mission 25 on December 17. Thank you to everyone who supported the Mission 25 Christmas project.
Our Food Pantry Assistance project is also thriving. Thanks to a $1,000 month grant for three months from the Indiana United Methodist Conference, along with your continued donations and reduced chicken pricing from Kroger, we are making a strong impact. In the first week of December alone, over $550 in canned goods and 42 lbs of beef (donated from Wood Farms Market) were delivered to St. Paul Food Pantry.
Thank you for making a meaningful difference in our community.
MID-WINTER FELLOWSHIP
Have you ever wished you had someone to go to lunch with after church? On January 11, after church, you will have the opportunity to go to lunch with LOTS of someone’s in the congregation. Bring a side dish or dessert to share and maybe even a friend, as we fellowship together after church over a meal.
WAYS TO SERVE IN THE NEW YEAR
Our vision to Love First through authentic welcome, growing intentionally, and reaching out passionately, may have you wondering how you can plug-in this year. Here are a few ways to show the love of Jesus.
First impressions Team - This team serves on Sunday morning, ensuring that every first impression is of a welcoming church that points people to Jesus. An Outdoor Greeter will direct cars to the proper parking lot and valet when needed, while the Indoor Greeters connect with anyone who walks through the door. Positions needed one Sunday a month: outside Parking Greeter, Valet Greeter, and inside, Welcome Center, Entry Door, Worship Entry Doors, and Worship Exit. A sign-up sheet will be in the Narthex or you can call the office with your availability.
Visitation teams – Visiting once a month with members of the congregation that are in shut-in at home or in an assisted living facility.
Communion to shut-ins – on the first Sunday of the month, extra communion packets are available to take to members not able to be in service. These packets are offered with communion during the Sunday morning service.
Oak Pointe Service – On the 4th Sunday of the month, CCUMC leads a 2:00 worship service for the residence. The number of those attending the service have grown from 6 to 15. Each month the team consists of a Message Leader, Musician, Song Leader, and 2 Hosts. Sign-up sheets are in the Narthex or you can call the office with your availability.
JANUARY SERIES
John Wesley taught that faith is more than belief or feeling — it transforms lives and leads to action. The book of James echoes this truth. This series explores Wesley’s General Rules alongside James to show how faith shapes what we say and do.
CITYKIDS NEWS
Pre-school – The Pre-school children had a busy December. The month included activities, stories, and crafts centered around the birth of Jesus. The large nativity and a lesson in waiting was the focus of SHINE time. Pastor Christi shared lighting the Advent candle and the meaning of Advent. The last Thursday of school brought the Christmas party with fun and treats for everyone.
Sundays – Jesus Birthday Celebration. The lesson for December was one of serving like Jesus as we celebrate his birth. A collection of items for the Blessing Box, made into a “birthday cake” to teach about helping others. City Kids Sunday is taking a break during the holidays and will resume the regular schedule January 11.
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES
Birthdays
1 — Pat Foy
1 — Laura Lefever
2 — Mike Rush
6 — Zachary Taylor
7 — Charlene Pebley
8 — Ron McQueen
8 — Tammy Taylor
14 — Tim Buchanan
14 — Bill Paulus
14 — Cheryl Stanley
19 — Scott Fudge
22 — Marilyn Fry
Anniversaries
9 — Carl & Barbara Siler
16 — Dave & Barbara Bilger
HOMEBOUND & CARE HOMES
Oak Pointe Assisted Living: Francis Bundy, Dee Green, Harrison & Natalie Harker, Barb Gilman
The Oaks Skilled Care: Bette Reed, Elaine Beard, Joanna Sims
Byron Health Center: April Snyder
Ossian Health & Rehabilitation: Jill Chapman
Autumn Trace: Evelyn Stemen, Karen Bucher
Homebound: Ron Reed, Donna Toole, Florence Linn, Louise Walter, Barb Bilger (cards only), and Betty Mosher (cards only)
* If you know anyone that is homebound or in a care facility, PLEASE let the office know. We want to be sure we are reaching out to all.
CHURCH COUNCIL
Trustee’s Report
Greg Lawson reported that the bus barn space is being rented out to 2 renters.
Finance Report
CCUMC November revenue was $41,744. Total November expenses were $ 41,120 for a November net operating revenue of $624.
Robin Wright presented the 2026 CCUMC Budget. The 2026 budget is balanced and takes into account the planned draw on Endowment fund earnings. The council unanimously approved the budget.
Pastor’s Report
CCUMC was approved for a $3000 emergency feeding grant from the UM conference. This grant in addition to the donations by the congregation will provide food for the Columbia City food pantries.
The playground equipment contract has been signed.
2026 goal setting and initial planning have been developed with a focus on the welcome and outreach part or our vision. Additional details will be discussed in the January council meeting.
The council recognized the service of the outgoing members including Mike Copp, Greg Lawson, Danielle Oliver, and Robin Wright. Their efforts and leadership are appreciated by the council and the congregation.
(260) 244-7671 • www.columbiacityumc.org
605 Forest Parkway Columbia City, IN 46725
Christi Murray, Pastor — christi.murray@columbiacityumc.org
Tammy Taylor, Director of Administration and Discipleship — tammy.taylor@columbiacityumc.org
