Friends in Faith—
This Sunday we'll be focusing on Romans 3:19-25; this text concerns the human condition—the ways we always fall short, and the amazing grace of God that pours over us. Our service will be about 30 minutes in length as immediately following worship, we'll be gathering in Farrand Hall to enjoy some snacks and cake together as well as the film, "All Saints." The film is about a church in transition and the unique opportunity that God blesses them with. Come and see!
Natalya begins playing gathering music at 10:20 a.m. We know the weather may be volatile, so you can also join virtually here: Facebook Live. More details about worship can be found here.
Grace Presbyterian Church will be celebrating Tet (Lunar New Year) this Sunday, January 22. They have invited us to join them for worship at 1 p.m. and the festivities following their worship service. The Fellowship Hall will be lined with various food stalls—each will be selling yummy foods for 25 cents! Of course, you can donate more—and all donations will benefit a Vietnamese church in Stockton. They have already begun decorating the Fellowship Hall; it looks beautiful! See you there!
The following Sunday, January 29, we'll be celebrating creativity in our community. If you have something that you have created that you'd like to display at Bethany in worship, you are encouraged to do so! It can be a painting, crochet, sculpture, wood work, any creative endeavor you'd like to share. During worship, you'll have a moment to share about what you created. Click here for details!
Monday, January 30 is one of our volunteer days at the SSIP Food Closet; I believe there is one final position available. You can learn more about this volunteer opportunity here.
Bethany is hosting a "Winter Wander" nature walk on Saturday, February 4th from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. at Stones Lake National Wildlife Refuge. More details are here.
On Monday, February 13, we'll be meeting for snacks and drinks in honor of "Palentine's Day"—a time to gather with friends just before Valentine's Day. The gathering will be between 5-7 p.m. at Hop Garden Neighborhood Tap Room. Details are here.
On Sunday, February 19, we'll be having our Annual Meeting immediately following worship.
On Wednesday, February 22, an ecumenical Ash Wednesday service will be held on behalf of SSIP at Sacramento Japanese Methodist Church. The service begins at 7 p.m.
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.
Peace to all!
—Jesse
