Beloved Brothers and Sisters, Greetings.

Well, by the goodness of Our Creator, 2022 provided for us an opportunity to recapture some of the social activities we had been missing for 22 months. I am in total agreement with the pslamist who "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord..." Being able to reconnect, conversate with fellow saints, in person, is a blessing whose value is far more significant than most realized. One of the lessons I think we all have to admit learning is the gift of fellowship.

Abyssinia, along with most congregations across the nation, are still contending with the reduced in-house pew population as some have become comfortable with virtual services. At times, I even miss the convenience, but I cannot erase the Hebrew writer's words: "forsake not the assembling of ourselves together..." While this is the age of the modern church we must adjust and continue as God gives direction. Fortunately, we were able to celebrate together 90 years of ministry in October of this year.

As 2023 is upon us, I look forward to it with faith-filled eyes, seeking to learn, improve and adapt to new ways and things as we continue advancing the works of the Kingdom. Reviving ministry actitivies, renewing commitments to community service and support, but most importantly sharing the message of Hope that God is still on His throne and reigns over the earth. Therefore, His grace, mercy and forgiveness is still available to all who seek and worship Him. No matter what we have been through or are going through, I believe God has a blessing for us individually and collectively. Yet we'll miss out on it if we just sit and wait for it.

Let us advance into this season before us with service and sacrifice, labor and love, gratitude and good will. That the light of God's presence may shine through us so others may find their way to Him.

From my wife and I , we pray you have great joy this Christmas and all throughout the new year to come. This is our hope for you.

With Love and Care

Pastor R. W. Trice, Jr.

12.07.22