We've come to the fourth week of Advent. We light this candle not because everything is resolved or because we have it all figured out, but because God is coming near, closer than we can imagine. This candle reminds us that love isn't an abstract idea or a feeling we conjure up. It's the Word made flesh, entering into the chaos and noise of our world, arriving not in power but in vulnerability. May this season open our hearts to receive this love, the love that reverses everything, that puts the last first, that shows up among us even when we're not sure we're ready. God is drawing near.
Cathedral Church of the Episcopal Diocese of Eau Claire, WI
Cathedral Church of the Episcopal Diocese of Eau Claire, WI
News
Chippewa Valley Street Ministry Journal
December 21, 2025
The winter solstice is here, and the darkness has shrouded us. The daylight will be longer starting tomorrow, and some say with the light, hope comes, as well: hope for better conditions for our brothers and sisters who are unhoused; hope for expanded services; hope for housing. Hope is a powerful tool that we've talked about before. Hope fuels motivation and powers all of us to strive towards a goal, and gives us a path to happiness. Hope is essential for all of us.
This man left our table after receiving food and some warm clothes.
Some of the people we serve spend the majority of their time alone. This is a personal choice that is driven by a multitude of reasons, including previous traumas, mental illness, safety, lack of trust, etc. One of our friends, in particular, does not feel accepted by his peers and spends most days alone. When he comes to visit, he often stays for an extended period of time and chats with us. He often doesn't need any material items; he needs the social contact and support we offer. While many of us are running around this year excited about Christmas preparations and seeing family, those who are unhoused may have one another, or they may be alone. Please keep them in your hearts during this holiday season.
Visitors and volunteers in conversation.
Many of our visitors come to us needing items to protect them from the cold. Thanks to you, we've been able to provide coats, hats, gloves, sweatpants, and hand warmers without any delay. We've been able to provide snow pants/bibs, boots, and thick winter socks, as well. We're 100% reliant on your support to continue our work. We'll send out an updated needs list in a few days; you can always refer back to the previous list or contact us with questions.
Blessing to All,
CVSM STAFF
This will take place this Sunday,
as last Sunday was cancelled. 
Stewardship Sunday is this Sunday, December 21st. 
Reminder: There will be no choir
at the 5 pm service. 
Service Schedule
Sunday
Rite II with Eucharist service – 9:00 AM;
In person, Zoom and Facebook live.
Click here to join Sunday morning Zoom service
Holy Days – Eucharist as announced in the Weekly Update
