To members of St. Matthew`s:

On Wednesday, December 15 our Bishop Michael Pryce sent out a letter of COVID-19 considerations, that concluded with a reminder that, “Your continued commitment to the health and wellbeing of all God’s people remains an act of love, and a gift of care.” (To see his entire message visit: https://easternsynod.org/covid19-reminders-and-recommendations/  )

In view of the increasing case counts of COVID-19 in Ontario and the Niagara Region, along with the uncertainty surrounding the Omicron variant, it is with heavy hearts that council has decided once again to cancel in-person worship beginning on December 24, 2021. We hope to resume in-person worship in February 2022, and in the meantime will do our best to provide meaningful worship for everyone through our website. Please check our website for new updates: http://www.stmatthewswelland.com

Sunday, December 19, our last in-person worship service for 2021, will feature An Unexpected Christmas, presented by the people of St. Matthew’s. Let’s see what happens when we pull back the curtain of Time and take a peek into heaven as God reveals his plans for the very First Christmas – the angels are in for a surprise or two!

As the year 2021 comes to a close, we want to remind everyone that your financial support of St. Matthew’s is greatly appreciated! Your faithful giving has not only supported the ministry of St. Matthew’s, but has extended beyond our walls: our Synod, Canada Lutheran World Relief, Open Arms Mission and Holy Trinity’s Breakfast Program represent some of the organizations that allow is to reach out to others more effectively. All donations included in your 2021 receipt for income tax purposes must be received, or post marked, by December 31, 2021.

Finally, we wish you all a joyous and healthy Christmas. May the Lord bless you throughout the twelve days of Christmas and the coming New Year!

Sinikka