A Christmas Letter from Reverend Karen Millard

To our friends at Lynn Valley United Church,

Let mutual affection continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. — Hebrews 13: 1-2

Throughout Advent, we have heard of the stories of angel appearances heralding incredible news of the birth of a saviour. They didn’t appear to kings and rulers or courts or the privileged of society. They came to an old and barren couple, a young girl barely a woman, a simple and humble man betrothed to her, and finally, to lowly shepherds on a hillside. They came to people like you and me. God worked through ordinary people and did extraordinary things. And so, it is that God works through us every time we offer messages of hope, peace, joy, and love to an anxious world. We are called to fly in the face of fear — to be angels among us.

There are angels among us that may not meet the eye
There are messages of [hope] coming from a choir on high

But don’t just look up;
for the way God works
is to plant more [love] right here on earth
just like it was with Jesus’ birth

There are angels among us,
there are angels among us,
there are angels among us,
bringing [hope] on earth.

Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid

This year, I’ve been especially struck by the idea that those angels weren’t just messengers of that one holy night; they point us to a deeper truth: that God still sends “angels among us.” Rarely with wings and radiant light, but in the quiet kindness of a neighbour, the steady presence of a friend in grief, the generous hand that lifts someone up, or the faithful volunteer who serves without fanfare. In these moments, we catch glimpses of God’s love made visible. Along with this Christmas letter, you are receiving the Annual Report for 2024. Take time after the Christmas festivities to look it over, maybe you will see some of the beautiful ‘angelic’ kinds of offerings we offer and receive in this place (note: We will take time at the congregational meeting on January 4, 2026 to approve it).

Christmas reminds us that God is not distant, but Emmanuel — God is with us. Still with us. And in that same Spirit, we are called to be angels among each other: bearers of hope, peace, joy, and love. In a world that often feels heavy and divided, may we be the ones who carry the light of Christ into homes, workplaces, and neighbourhoods. As we gather for worship, carols, and candlelight, I pray that you will feel the nearness of God in a fresh way. May you also recognize the angels among us at Lynn Valley United Church — those who have encouraged you, prayed for you, and walked beside you this year. And may each of us, in turn, keep choosing to be that kind of presence for someone else.

I’m so grateful to walk with you in this journey of faith. I’m praying for you and your families this Christmas season — that you would know the deep peace of Christ, the warmth of community, and the joy of being loved by God.

With love and Christmas blessings,

Reverend Karen Millard and family (Macky, Ami, and Malaya)