Open House for Past NFC’ers

One of my absolute favorite things about being pastor in one church for decades (first for children and later for everyone) was the Christmas Eve service. All these people I had known since they were kids would come visit their families at Christmas, and they would show up at one of the candlelight services. It was a source of deep joy for me to catch up on the lives of these adults that I knew as children.

I loved that wherever they went, whatever they did, we had this lived-out-symbol of returning to a place and a community where they were welcomed and loved. I loved getting to be the physical arms that embraced them and welcomed them home, being the actual ears that heard the updates on their lives. It truly was one of my deepest joys, every year, to try and be a consistent safe haven.

This will be the 8th Christmas Eve since so much has changed. I can’t be part of welcoming people back to the same space.

This year, I want to try to do something, instead of just be sad about the loss of that past. The truth is, I still love all of you from that community. The truth is, I still want to celebrate who you are and who you have become. The truth is, I still want to have my face muscles ache from smiling as I see faces I have long loved and long missed.

And in a world where we often don’t have consistency, especially consistency of love and affirmation, I would love to offer a small gesture, a moment of welcome and love to you.

So—if you were part of NFC but it is hard for you to go back; if you would love a hug and a smile and a listening ear to catch up on your life now, you are invited to a simple open house at our home on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, from 3-6 pm. No agenda other than bringing me joy by sharing your updates, and giving me a chance to remind you that you are loved and valuable! (Well, and maybe munching on some finger foods and/or playing some games. And also you might have to let me take a selfie with you.)

Come alone or bring your partner/kids, whatever is more comfortable for you. If you don’t know where our house is, send me an email at gregg dot koskela at gmail dot com. Pop by if you can, and make my smile muscles hurt!