It’s been a while since I have preached a First Sunday in Advent sermon, so I was more than happy to say yes when Pr. Jeff Bergeron needed a last minute supply pastor today due to health reasons. I also have not been to New Life in Christ for worship in person before, so this was a happy opportunity for me. Today was a lovely day to be greeted by this welcoming building too, complete with a nice playground – doubtless used often by Pr. Bergeron’s daughter, Elia.

The sanctuary was also lovely with its decorations for Advent and the upcoming Christmas season. I like the semi-circle shape of the seating in the sanctuary too.

The congregation has recently renovated their fellowship area with a larger updated kitchen- which was well used recently as members gathered to make lefse for the holiday season. I was blessed with a package to take home today too.

A couple of fun observations that resonated with my youth pastor history- most youth rooms have a collection of every members crappy old couches that no one wants. This youth room has a nice new, comfy sectional sofa that actually looks nice!

I also couldn’t help but notice that the 2020 confirmation class had two photos on the wall – one masked and one not. Definitely will remember that year in their history here!