Friends in Faith—
This coming Sunday, October 16, we'll be participating in a "Contemplative" worship service at Bethany. We were unable to find a leader for a "Taize" service, but that's ok—we'll try it another time. "Taize" is just one of many styles of Christian contemplative worship.
Indeed, I just returned from the Presbytery's "Pastors' Retreat" at Zephyr Point and all of our worship services were contemplative services; we didn't have a call to worship or bulletins or even a sermon, but we were introduced to all sorts of new ways to approach worshiping God.
More and more, churches of all backgrounds are making more room in worship for silence, for reflection, for new music, for hearing God's Word in new ways and that's exactly what we'll be doing on Sunday! Our text will be from Luke 19:1-10.T
Then, immediately after worship, a labyrinth will be available for you to wander through. A labyrinth is another ancient spiritual practice—a way of walking a wandering path, but trusting that God is leading you to where you need to be. NOTE: the labyrinth prep morning is this coming Friday (Oct. 14) starting 10 a.m. Cathy Sapunor would appreciate anyone available to help.
We hope you'll join us for this time of expanding our worshiping horizons!
This Sunday, following worship, in addition to experiencing the labyrinth, we'll also take 30 minutes to discuss Chapter 8 of the Sailboat Church book. We'll also be discussing Sailboat Church on Monday, October 16 at 10 a.m. or you can also attend our Zoom discussion on Wednesday, October 19. All are welcome. Click here for details about attending in person or via Zoom.
U P C O M I N G:
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!
Monday, October 31 - Volunteer Day at the SSIP Food Closet. We'll spend the better part of the morning filling bags with foods for the many clients of this special ministry. Click here for details.
We have two memorial services coming up for two beloved members—Donna Roberts and Gail Powell. Donna's service will be on Sunday, November 6 at 3:30 p.m. and Gail's will be on Saturday, November 19 at 3:30 p.m. We no longer have deacons or a fellowship commission, so if you are able to volunteer and serve as a greeter for one or both of these services, that would be great.
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."
Blessings,
Jesse
