This week, there is SO much holiday magic happening at Live Oak, and I’d hate for you to miss anything that interests you.

First, on Thursday, Dec. 7, at 6:30 pm, we’ll attend to the somber side of the season with our “Blue Christmas Vespers.” This is a small, fairly informal service in the sanctuary for anyone who is going through a rough time this time of year, grieving, or just feeling blue. There will be readings and a little music, and an opportunity to symbolically lay your burden down, and share about it (if you wish).

Saturday is a big day! From 10-2, we’ll have our Selfies with Santa Festival. It is a wonderful opportunity to get family photos with Santa Claus – bring your camera/phone, there will be volunteers happy to help you. And if you have a child for whom the mall is an overwhelming experience, this is a way for them to visit with Santa where they really do get to do that – Santa will sit with them and have a real conversation.

While you’re waiting to see Santa (no need to wait in line!), you can browse our Book Fair, Silent Auction, and “Pay What You Want” Bake Sale.

Saturday evening, come back at 6:00 pm for the Interfaith Holiday PJ Storytime. The rabbi and I will be in the Live Oak library (in our jammies), reading holiday stories to all the kids. Feel free to come in your pajamas! Bring a new book and/or a new set of child’s pajamas, which will be donated to Pajama Program.

Pajama Program is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes equitable access to healthy sleep so all children can thrive. We provide new pajamas and storybooks, sleep health education, and caring connections to ensure that children facing adversities—including low family income, housing insecurity, and family instability—have the tools they need for better bedtimes. Since 2001, Pajama Program has delivered over 7.5 million Good Nights for Good Days. Pajama Program leverages a national network of volunteers and partnerships with 4,000 community-based organizations across the United States, and also provides local programming in New York City, Atlanta, and metro-Detroit.

Sunday Morning, it’s Pageant time! This is a “pop-up” pageant, using anyone, of all ages, who wishes to participate. This year’s pageant is The Snow Tree. 

And right after that, we’ll have our annual December congregational meeting. No spoilers, but there will be a special video you don’t want to miss!