Dear Friends,
As you read this you might already be well on your way to having had enough of mince pies and Christmas Carols. Many in our network have been 'doing Christmas' since the summer to ensure their church's Christmas services run smoothly this season. Whether you're still loving the sparkling lights and the advent candles, or whether you're longing to be on the other side of the Messy Christingle and traditional carol services, please just stop dashing around for one minute.
Because we want you to take a moment to be thanked.
The UCAN team want to express our deepest gratitude and thanks to each of you. You are the heartbeat of your churches, quietly and faithfully working behind the scenes to ensure that the ministry of the gospel continues to flourish. Your dedication to administration—organising events, balancing budgets, communicating with teams, sweeping up the hay after the live nativity, and managing countless details—does not go unnoticed. You may not often be in the spotlight, but your role is vital to the life of the church, and we thank God for you.
Now, as we turn our hearts toward the celebration of Christ's birth, we want to remind you of something important: the need to slow down, breathe deeply, and remember why we do what we do. In the flurry of Christmas services, nativity plays, and carol concerts, it is all too easy to become consumed by the demands of ministry. But Christmas is more than tasks and to-do lists; it is the story of Emmanuel—God with us.
In Luke 2, we read of shepherds watching over their flocks, ordinary people faithfully doing their work, when suddenly the glory of the Lord broke through their night. The angel's announcement—"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people"—reminds us that the heart of Christmas is joy, peace, and hope. As church administrators, it can be easy to focus so intently on supporting others that we forget to pause and encounter this joy ourselves.
So, we encourage you to take time this season to reflect on the profound truth that Christ came for YOU. In the midst of the busyness, make space to sit in the presence of the One who left the splendour of heaven to dwell among us. Allow yourself to be renewed by the wonder of His love and the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Remember, Jesus did not come to add more burdens to our shoulders; He came to carry them. His invitation in Matthew 11:28-29 is as true today as it was then: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
This Christmas, may you find that rest. May you be reminded that you are not just servants of the church—you are beloved children of God. As you work tirelessly to bless others, know that He is delighted in you. And as you care for your churches, take time to let the beauty of the gospel refresh and fill your soul.
Thank you for your faithfulness. May the joy, peace, and hope of Christ fill your hearts this season and beyond.
For you,
