Nominations for Church Council. At this year’s Annual Congregational Meeting we will be holding elections to fill five Church Council positions. Please submit the names of those you would like to nominate in the box located in the Gathering Space.

Noon Readers will meet on January 17 to discuss Dreams of Joy by Lisa See at Ruth Slocum’s home. Join us if you can.

Annual Congregational Meeting. Mark your calendar and plan to attend our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 22 at noon. Hear your Congregational Council members report on what has been accomplished over the past year using our Christian faith and resources, and what worship and ministry opportunities are planned for 2012 with your approval and support.

Outreach Collection for January.  We’re thinking “warm.” The weeks of January 22 and 29 we will be collecting hot chocolate, coffee, oatmeal, etc.

Cookie Bake and Care Package for St. Matthew College Students & Service Members. See sign-up in the Gathering Space to provide cookies (individually wrapped) and treats. Leave them in the kitchen before 11:00 worship on February 5. If you are interested in packing boxes, see the sign-up for that as well! Parents, please verify that the office has the latest address for your student or service member. Contact Lisa Hugel 860-651-1227 with questions.              .

REMINDER:  Thrivent members can direct 2011 Choice Dollars through March 31. Through Thrivent Choice Dollars, eligible benefit members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans can recommend where Thrivent Financial distributes part of its charitable funds each year.  Choice Dollars can be directed to many Lutheran organizations nationwide including St. Matthew. Visit Thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836  and say "Thrivent Choice." At the second prompt say "Choice Dollars."

If you wish to provide your own photo for the Pictorial Directory, it must be in the office before January 29.

Chili Cook-off, Saturday, January 21 at 6:00 p.m. Sign-up in the Gathering Space today.