September 21, 2022
Friends in Faith -
Sometimes during our prayer of confession, we admit to harm we have caused others through "things we have done and things we have left undone." For decades, many churches have struggled with the issue of homosexuality and other issues of identity. So many of our Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered siblings have been wounded during this time—through rejection, judgment, shaming, and exclusion. Rather than honoring all people as being made "very good" in the eyes of the Lord and in God's own image, we have weaponized our faith as a way of building walls and spreading condemnation as opposed to offering radical hospitality and love to ALL people, no exceptions. Even when many of us have tried to stand as allies with our GLBT friends, too often we've remained silent. So Bethany has decided to celebrate "Affirming Sunday" this coming Sunday, September 25. We want to celebrate the gifts that all humans are endowed with by our creator, but we especially want to give thanks for the lights shined by GLBTQ+ folks. As always, we'll open our hearts to the "new thing" the Holy Spirit is doing in our midst.
Our text for the morning will be from Matthew 22:36-40—the greatest commandment. Our friend KC Shane will be joining us once again to share some music with us.
As always, the worship service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Gathering music by pianist Natalya Amelchenko starts around 10:20 a.m. Folks can join from home on Facebook. (You can also watch prior services at any time here.) Consider asking a friend to join you in person at the service … or start a “watch party” on your Facebook account!
Do you recognize this bulletin board? This is the bulletin board in our Fellowship Hall—it's just been covered up by the piano for several years. It's being used once again—be sure to check it out so you know what all is happening at Bethany!
UPDATES
Sunday, October 2 is "World Communion Sunday." We'll be celebrating the grand diversity of Christ's church from around the world. Churches in countries near and far will join in communion together—so if you are worshiping from home, be sure to grab some bread and juice. We'll also be collecting donations (dry goods, canned goods, and financial gifts) for then SSIP Food Closet.. After worship, during coffee hour, we'll also be discussing Chapter 7 of Sailboat Church.
On Sunday, October 9, immediately following worship, a short film will be presented in our Fellowship Hall entitled "The Chosen."
On Sunday, October 16, we'll be participating in a Taize-style worship service. We'll also have the opportunity to walk a labyrinth—an ancient Christian practice for prayer, centering, and discernment. We also plan to discuss Chapter 8 of Sailboat Church.after worship.
Sunday, October 23 is "Education Sunday.” We'll explain some of the practices and theology of Presbyterian worship service. Then, at 4 p.m, we'll be hosting our annual "Blessing of the Pets" in our parking lot. Come by to participate in this fun, informal time with our furry family members.
Sunday, October 30 is "Reformation Sunday.” We'll celebrate our unique voice in Christianity. Later in the day, at 3 p.m., all are invited to our "Trunk or Treat" event for children and families There will be food, games, treats—it's gonna be a lot of fun, so save the date!
Did you notice our new bannister? Thanks to Jim Guida for taking on this project. It looks great and helps to make our sanctuary safer.
Many churches, like Bethany, have remained somewhat fragmented after the pandemic. We have some older members in retirement homes, or others who have moved away. But even though we are sometimes far apart, we can still honor and celebrate the joys, concerns, and lives of our Bethany family. Here is the obituary of member Donna Roberts who passed away recently. Memorial services for Donna and for Gail Powell, who also passed away, will take place this fall. Details will be posted.
You are encouraged to send along news—happy or heavy—from our extended Bethany family. We would like to share your news during the Sunday worship service.
Please keep in your prayers those among us stricken with COVID-19 and other ailments … those recovering from surgery … and those who are traveling.
If you have a prayer concern you'd like to share with our church family, please let me or office manager Maria Mar know. We also have a special page on our web site dedicated to sharing prayer concerns; click here to send a prayer request by e-mail.
We lift our many prayers to our Lord, trusting that God hears our prayers and stands by us through good times and bad. John 14:27 declares, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
Jesse
