Dear siblings in Christ of the Southwestern Washington Synod, Grace and peace to you in the name of the newborn Christ! At Christmas we rejoice in the good news that God has come near, that the Word became flesh and made a home among us. This is the heart of our faith and the gift we receive again in this holy season. In the story we heard on Christmas Eve, the angel says to the shepherds, “I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” This announcement comes first not to the powerful or the prepared, but to ordinary people doing ordinary work. God shows up in the night, in the fields, in the places we might least expect. That good news is not only something we hear once a year. It is the story the Church is called to live into day after day, year after year. Through the Church, Christ is made known through word and deed, in communities that make God’s nearness tangible and real. As I have traveled across our synod, I have seen this good news lived out. I have seen it in congregations practicing compassion and hospitality, opening doors and hearts to neighbors in need. I have seen it in worship that tells the story of Jesus with care and joy, and in the quiet faithfulness of leaders and volunteers who keep showing up to love people where they are. In these very real ways, the Church bears witness to good news of great joy! As we celebrate Christmas, thank you for being a people who carry that good news. Thank you for your faithfulness and for the ways you continue to make Christ known in your communities. It is truly a gift to serve alongside you! May the peace of Christ dwell richly among you this Christmas, and may the light of Christ shine through you for the life of the world. Merry Christmas! Bishop Keith Marshall Southwestern Washington Synod | 