ARLINGTON — The Arlington United Church is gearing up for an eventful December.
Saturday, Dec. 4, will mark the church’s fifth annual Christmas bazaar, featuring no less than five local crafts-makers selling their wares at the corner of Fourth Street and McLeod Avenue from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We’ll be raising money by selling gifts that people of all ages can afford,” said Jeannie Lish, missions co-chair for the church. “It’s an opportunity to find things you can wear, or toys for kids of all ages. With the economy the way that it is, we’re making sure that everything is very reasonably priced, so that people can buy items that they’d be happy to give or receive.”
Lish explained that the proceeds from these sales go to support the church’s local mission projects, which include aid to the Arlington Food Bank, Kids’ Kloset and area homeless shelters.
“We’re trying to help out the community, and we’ll accept cash or donated items,” Lish said. “Whatever leftovers we don’t sell at the bazaar, we’ll give to the Stillaguamish Senior Center for them to sell at their thrift store.”
While shoppers are browsing the bazaar’s selection, they can also enjoy some hot rolls, soup, hot and cold beverages, and warm bread pudding.
On Sunday, Dec. 5, the church will celebrate the beginning of the Advent season with their 62nd annual candlelight service starting at 7 p.m.
The evening’s program is set to include a Christmas story, carols sung by the congregation, special music by the chancel choir, and instrumental music featuring the trumpet, flute, violin and cello, followed by a Christmas message delivered by the Rev. Deena Jones. The general public is welcome to attend.
The church’s carillon will by playing Christmas carols throughout the day and the Yuletide season for the enjoyment of visitors to and residents of Arlington.
The following Friday, Dec. 10, the Snohomish and Island unit of Church Women United will be sponsoring a celebration of International Human Rights Day from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Arlington United Church.
“This year’s theme is ‘Living the Challenge’ and focuses on how we can help those with physical, mental or emotional disabilities,” Lish said. “There are several such individuals right here in Arlington, some of whom are homeless because of how inaccessible the world is to them.”
In addition to exploring how they might be able to address disparities in health care, housing and employment for these various groups of disabled individuals, the church will also receive a visit from members of Village Community Services, a program designed provide disabled residents of Marysville, Arlington and Stanwood with avenues to assist them in building their self-esteem and productivity. The VCS “Voices of the Village” band will perform as well.
The Arlington United Church is located at 338 N McLeod Ave. For more information, call Lish at 360-652-9227 or 425-923-8267.
