Friends in Faith—
This coming Sunday we'll be celebrating Epiphany—the visit of the wise ones from a faraway land following a star to honor the baby Jesus. Bethany has a tradition of celebrating "Three Kings Day" which is a holiday common throughout Latin America; the kings may make an appearance in our worship service!
Our worship will be abbreviated as we'll be having our big congregational meeting and workshop with the Presbyterian Foundation (which will begin at roughly 11 a.m.). fter reading and discussing "Sailboat Church" and participating in 40 Days of Prayer, we are now ready to process the experience. The meeting will probably be between 3-4 hours, so a delicious lunch will be provided. All of the Bethany family is encouraged to attend!
We still have "word stars" available—they will be on the communion table. And please feel free to take one for a family member or a member who can no longer make it to worship.
Natalya begins playing gathering music at 10:20 a.m. Folks can also join virtually here: Facebook Live. More details about worship can be found here.
A special thanks to Mark Strack, who is regularly completing all sorts of projects around Bethany. He installed a small gate in our balcony as our children have been provided this space for quiet play while in worship. He's also cleaned out the janitor's closet; we can now better check on our supplies. Thanks, Mark!
NOTES & HAPPENINGS:
On Sunday, January 22, we'll be watching a film entitled "All Saints" immediately following worship. We'll gather in Farrand Hall (instead of the Social Hall). Some fun goodies will be served. The film runs for a little less than two hours. Please let us know if you plan on attending—especially families who made need child care.
Save the date! On Sunday, February 19, we'll be having our Annual Meeting immediately following worship.
We know that COVID is still in our communities, as are several other nasty bugs. Please continue to do what you need to do to stay safe—mask up, maintain social distance, etc. We also know that we are in the midst of a series of big storms. If we are facing flooding, high winds, or other dangerous situations, please think twice about traveling and don't take any unnecessary risks.
As a church family, we are a community that is committed to caring for one another. One of the ways that we can support one another, loved ones and strangers, near and far, is to offer our prayers on their behalf. We share our prayers because we care for one another, and we know that God listens and cares for all of God's children. If you have a joy or concern to share, please let Maria or Jesse know; and if it is a confidential matter, please be sure to let them know.
Happy New Year and Peace to all!
—Jesse
