What have you decided to give up? A meal each day? A type of food? Unnecessary spending? This Friday, January 10 will begin our 21 days of prayer and fasting. This can be a time of reset and focus as we begin 2025 by spending more time with the Lord. For fasting resources, check out the "Resources" tab on the church website. Also, take a look at the daily devotional on the CCOG Bible app page: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/53554

Sanctity of Life Sunday is January 19. On that day, we will take home baby bottles from the Lake Norman Community Pregnancy Center. In the weeks following, we will fill the bottles with cash, check, or change for the benefit of the center. Having a baby is expensive, so we want to bless mothers who may not be able to provide easily for their new babies.

An exact date has not yet been set for the next Men's fellowship. The choices are February 1 or 8. Men, please let Shane know which Saturday works best for you. The date which suits the most people will win out. The next event will be at Kat's Patch in Troutman at 8:30am.

The shoebox goal for this year is at least 60 boxes. With this in mind, please bring toboggans, scarves, gloves, and fuzzy socks for this month's donations. Shoeboxes and shipping costs are also very helpful to the cause.

Thanks to all who have shown interest in helping our homeless neighbors. If you want to support, be sure to mark WOTS or homeless ministry on your envelope to give financially. If you are able to do hands-on work, join us on Tuesday, January 21, and remember to be at the church in time to leave by 5pm.

Here is the news story regarding Watchmen of the  Streets when CCOG participated:  https://www.wbtv.com/video/2023/08/01/watchmen-streets/

WBTV News:  Watchmen of the Streets-Restaurants in Lake Norman area help feed the homeless

Advent is a time of hope and anticipation. Advent reflects on the first coming of Jesus and looks forward to the second coming. Remember to begin the advent devotional soon. It will take you all the way to Christmas. Scan the QR code, or use this direct link to find the devotion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/13463