Finding Your Star Word & Celebrating Ministry

This Sunday, as we gather for the Second Sunday of Christmas, we’ll reflect on the story of Jesus as a twelve-year-old in the temple, confidently declaring, “I must be in my Father’s house” (Luke 2:41-52). It’s a moment that speaks to the importance of recognizing God’s presence and purpose in our lives.

We’ll also mark this special Sunday with three meaningful moments: the sharing of Star Words, the celebration of Sashire Ayares’ ministry, and the blessing of Kathy Picard as she begins her role as Interim Director of Children and Family Ministries.

With gratitude, we will honor Sashire Ayares during the 9 a.m. service for her work as our Director of Children and Family Ministries. Sashire has faithfully guided the children and families of Bethany, bringing love, joy, and creativity to our children’s faith formation.

While her last day in this role is December 31, we are happy that Sashire and her family will remain part of our Bethany community. Following the service, we’ll gather in Luther Hall for a reception to express our thanks and celebrate her ministry.

Sashire shared:

“My time with the children and families of BLC has been such a gift, filled with love, joy, and meaningful moments. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the children’s faith formation.”

As we celebrate Sashire’s ministry, we also look ahead with hope and gratitude as we bless Kathy Picard, who will step into the role of Interim Director of Children and Family Ministries. Kathy brings her own gifts and heart for ministry, and we are confident in her leadership during this transition.

During the service, we will pray for Kathy and offer her our encouragement and support as she begins this new role.

On Sunday, we’ll also begin the new year with Star Words, a prayerful tradition tied to Epiphany. Each person will receive a word printed on a star, chosen at random, to guide and inspire their faith journey in 2025.

Star Words remind us of the Magi, who followed a star to find Jesus. Like them, we trust God to lead us closer to Christ, often in ways we don’t expect. This practice encourages us to pause, reflect, and listen for God’s voice throughout the year.

Your Star Word can become a meaningful part of your spiritual life—display it where you’ll see it daily, explore its meaning, and let it shape your prayers and reflections.

Don’t forget, Monday, January 6, is Epiphany—a day to reflect on the light of Christ breaking into the world. Just as the Magi followed the star, may we follow God’s call in the year ahead.

This Sunday promises to be a time of celebration, reflection, and blessing. Together, we’ll honor Sashire’s ministry, bless Kathy’s new role, and embrace our Star Words to step into a new year guided by God’s light. I hope to see you there!

Come and celebrate, reflect, and begin this new year in community.