Friends in Faith:
This Sunday, October 8, we'll be gathering, once again, as a church family at Bethany for worship! Our scripture lesson is from Luke 7:11-17; Jesus brings a widow's son back to life. It's a beautiful story full of compassion. You are invited to read through this story.
I have noticed that in this story, Jesus involves himself in yet another "holy interruption" (it's actually one of many). Come and see—during our service, there will be a little time of sharing during the sermon—have you ever experienced a "holy interruption"?
Immediately following our service, there will be an informal congregational meeting to update folks about where we are at as we continue discussions about merger and other options.
Natalya begins playing our “gathering music” at 10:20 a.m. You can also join virtually here: Facebook Live. More details about worship can be found here.
As we seek a way forward in towards a faithful, but different future, we want to keep our entire church family in the loop. So we'd like to have an informal congregational meeting on Sunday, October 8, immediately following worship (we won't be voting on any motions). Our session will explain where we are in the process, some of the topics we've discusses, next steps, etc. But we are also eager to hear from you—what questions, comments, or concerns would you like to share?
There is a lot going on at Zephyr Point in October! Bethany will be sending members to participate in two conferences—"The Ethnic Concerns Consultation" and the "Pastors Conference." In addition, a group of several Bethany folks will be headed up to Zephyr for their annual "Sprucing Up the Pines" event. It's such a blessing to connect with Presbyterian friends in such a beautiful part of creation!
SAVE THE DATES!
On Sunday, October 15, some members of Grace Presbyterian Church will be joining us for worship—and we'll be experimenting with some new formats of worship.
On Sunday, October 22, at 4 p.m., we'll be holding our annual "Blessing of the Pets" in our courtyard.
Rev. Stephen Moon (of Mosaics) and Davis Community Church will be hosting another fellowship evening for the entire Presbytery on Saturday, October 28: "The Presbytery Unity Meal.” More details to follow!
Our next “five on the 5th” Food Closet volunteer mornings is on Monday, October 30. We need just one more willing person. No experience necessary! Contact Cathy Sapunor if you would like to help.
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 me know; and if it is a confidential matter, please be sure to let them know. And don't forget that we have a prayer team who is committed to praying for any and all prayer concerns that come forward. You can reach out to Barbara Greene with your prayer concerns and she'll share them with the prayer team.
Hear our prayers, O Lord!
Peace to all.
—Jesse
