The Biblical Recorder’s last print edition of 2018 is in the mail. As we have said for many weeks, this year we will not publish the week of Christmas. This is not unusual for state newspapers. Most weekly and bi-weekly Baptist state papers already have a pattern of not publishing a print issue around Christmas week in order to allow their staff to take a break from a rigorous publishing schedule. So for the BR staff, this will be a first, but is consistent with our sister publications in other states. We look forward to enjoying time with our friends and family. We hope you enjoy the season as well!

Last weekend’s winter storm forced churches in most of the western and Piedmont areas of North Carolina to cancel church services. In my editorial this week, I underscored the fact that such cancellations usually result in reduced offerings, which can create a domino effect with fewer dollars for our Great Commission mission causes. That is a serious concern as we give to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions throughout December.

I also raised the possibility that this early snow storm may be a foretaste of what many weather forecasters have been saying for the past 5 months. We might see record snowfall this winter! If so, what is your church’s plan to keep the ministry vibrant? It is wise to plan ahead.

May you and your family enjoy the advent season and all of the other preparations you traditionally enjoy each Christmas!