Merry Christmas Greetings to you from the Satryans!

As once again we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and as 2006 draws to a close, we must give thanks and praise to our God for the many blessings He has continued to pour out upon us. We continue to be in good health, we are surrounded by a loving church family, the Lord continues to meet our every need according to His riches in glory, and we have had a wonderful year together in Him!

This past January, my family and the great folks of WFA (Wilmington First Assembly) did what few have been able to do – kept something totally secret from me! A most wonderful surprise fiftieth birthday extravaganza was given in my honor. Arrangements were made for my entire family to be present, as well as my spiritual father, Rev. Leonard T. Jones. The church’s fellowship hall was packed with folks. To say that I was overwhelmed would be an understatement. I have never felt so honored, as well as so humbled, in all my life. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime event that I will never forget.

Although I am not Chinese (although one of my best friends is Chinese!), 2006 has been “The Year of the Dog” for the Satryan family! Ever since my last Labrador Retriever, Chelsea, died, I have wanted another dog – a real dog. Well, at Christmas last year, we had the wonderful opportunity to “puppy-sit” a Golden Retriever while a family from WFA was away on vacation. That did it! I was sold on that breed. And for my 50th birthday, I really wanted nothing other than to once again have “my dog.”

I read all I could read, and researched everywhere possible for just the right Golden. Following many ups and downs in working with different breeders, we finally found our “perfect” Golden puppy! She comes from a long line of champions – in fact, her father, “Trooper,” came in second place at the Westminster Kennel Club show last year. Born on May 27th, we picked up “Water’s Edge Summer Breeze” – we call her “Breeze” – on July 22nd. Although she is my dog, the whole family has absolutely fallen in love with her – especially Carolyn! Needless to say, the remainder of the year has been markedly different from the first part of the year! Through the weekly “puppy obedience” classes, as well as walking Breeze, we have been able to meet many people from outside the church, which is an added blessing.

Our family enjoyed a quick trip to Cape May, New Jersey this summer with Carolyn’s parents. While the girls enjoyed the beach, Carolyn and I continued on our joy of touring lighthouses by climbing the Cape May Lighthouse. Later, Carolyn and I enjoyed attending the Wilmington Tall Ships Festival, seeing a number of ships, including the Kalmar Nyckel, which is based here in Wilmington.

Jessica is now a senior Music Education major at Grove City College, a Christian liberal arts school located in Western Pennsylvania. She continued for her fourth year as a part of the school’s marching band, as well as the Touring Choir. We once again were able to host the choir here at WFA during their annual Spring Tour. Jessica has continued to develop her interest in theater, as well as music. She was a part of GCC’s productions of “The Pirates of Penzance” and “Of Thee I Sing” as well as directing the One Act, “Labor Pains,", and technical support in many areas including the Children’s Theater, Orchesis, and more.

Just recently, Jessica presented her Senior Recital, the final requisite for graduation. Our entire extended family was able to travel to GCC to watch her perform. Those who have known us for many years have all remarked on how Jessica’s voice reminds them so much of Carolyn’s. The new year will find Jessica completing her college years as she student teaches, and commencement in May.

Chrystalynn, now a sophomore at McKean High School, was once again on the school’s field hockey team. At the church, in addition to being a part of the youth ministry, she assists with the children’s ministries in many ways. She was a part of the cast for the weeklong VBS presentation this summer, helping to lead in worship, as well as acting and puppeteering.

Although she is involved in so many activities, her passion continues to be summed up in one word – horses. In addition to taking hours of horseback riding lessons, she has competed in many riding competitions through the year. Further, she is constantly volunteering her services to work at Carousel Park, the local equestrian center. She has great hopes that her work will translate into a job this coming year, as she turns 16. Pray for me as that birthday looms closer!

Our prayer for you this Christmas is for the love of our Lord Jesus Christ to be more real to you than ever, and your desire to share that love with all those around you would be more intense than ever. And, may the New Year, should Jesus tarry in His return, be one of abundant blessing to you and your family.

We serve a wonderful God, and one of the most wonderful blessings He has given us is counting you as our friends!

Many Blessings,
Pastor Tim and Carolyn, Jessica and Chrystalynn Satryan