weekly letter

September 12, 2007

 

Greetings to all!

 

    This week is an important one for our neighbors of Jewish and Muslim traditions.  On the Jewish calendar, September 13-14 is Rosh Hashanah (the New Year) leading to Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement, September 22), then followed closely by Sukkot (September 27 - October 3).  On the Muslim calendar, September 13 marks the beginning of Ramadan (a month of fasting) that extends through October 12.   All around us, locally and globally, neighbors will celebrating seasons with important meaning for their lives and communities.  Let us be mindful of our neighbors, wishing them meaningful celebrations and joyful gatherings with family and friends.   Perhaps the following the following prayer might guide our reflection and practice in these days:

Eternal God,

you are the one God worshiped by all,

by many names, through many practices.

In this convergence of holy seasons,

give us grace to hear your truth

through the instructions of Moses, the lawgiver,

and in the teachings of Mohammed, the prophet,

and to show your love as disciples of Jesus Christ,

that Christians, Muslims, and Jews together

may serve you in faith and friendship.

  Amen.

(adapted from the Book of Common Worship)

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, September 16:

      Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28

     1 Timothy 1:12-17

      Luke 15:1-10

 

Men's Coffee:  Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, September 15, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road.  Feel free to stop by for as long or short a time as your schedule permits.

 

Sunday Conversation around the Scripture lessons for the day (see above) continues this Sunday, 10am, in Trinity Hall. Stop in to join the conversation or simply to listen in.

 

FALL POTLUCK: This Sunday, September 16, is our fall Potluck Picnic immediately after worship in Trinity Hall.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert.  Meat and beverages will be provided.  Don't miss this delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

 

The 2007 Lexington CROP Walk to benefit hunger relief is scheduled for Sunday, September 16, 2:30pm through downtown Lexington.  This event is open to all ages.  Contact Mike Ward for more information and to register.

 

In the Community:  Joseph Beth Booksellers and The Interfaith Alliance of the Bluegrass are co-sponsoring an evening with Rabbi Harold Kushner on Tuesday, September 18, 7pm, at Joseph Beth Booksellers (Lexington Green Mall).  Rabbi Kushner will be discussing and signing copies of his book, Overcoming Life's Disappointments.  Tickets (free) are required for this event.  Contact Joseph Beth Booksellers for ticket information.

 

Thanks, news, etc....

     *Thanks to...Jerry Ristau and Mark Horman for their assistance during morning worship last Sunday; Nell Horman and Derek Vaughan for their work with children and youth last Sunday; Barb Waldmann-Ward for trimming and other grounds work last week; Marian Congleton for hosting the Women's Guild on Monday.

     *"Ecumenical Sunday" is coming on October 7.  Make plans to join us for this celebration of Walnut Hill's life and mission as an ecumenical congregation.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward