weekly letter

December 30, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

Traditions abound regarding the holidays including the New Year.

 

     In Scotland and the northern parts of England, New Year is given much importance:  Folk go from house to house wishing each other a good year ahead, and celebrate their good wishes with food and plenty of drink.  It is often seen as important who should be the first to cross the threshold and "bring in the year" once midnight has passed.  The prayer below asks Christ to come and "first-foot" for us.  The door is opened to welcome him in and invite his blessing, whether he enters in silence or in the company of other guests.

 

     This day is a new day that has never been before.  This year is a new year, the opening door...(the front door is opened)...Enter, Lord Christ - we have joy in Your coming.  You have given us life; and we welcome your coming.  I turn now to face You, I lift up my eyes.  Be blessing my face, Lord; be blessing my eyes.  May all my eye looks on be blessed and be bright, my neighbours, my loved ones be blessed in Your sight.  You have given us life and we welcome Your coming.  Be with us, Lord, we have joy, we have joy.  This year is a new year, the opening door.  Be with us, Lord, we have joy, we have joy.  Amen.

(from Celtic Daily Prayer)

 

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, January 4, The Epiphany of the Lord, Holy Communion:

     Isaiah 60:1-6

     Ephesians 3:1-12

     Matthew 2:1-12

 

Men's Coffee: Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, January 3, 8am, at Paneras (Richmond Road).  Feel free to stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows.  No rsvp required.

 

Sunday Conversations resume this week with the completion of our "Christmas Stories" series.  This Sunday, January 4,  we will focus on The Epiphany Story - Visitors From the East (Matthew 2:1-12).  Feel free to join the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

Refreshment Hosts are needed for the first Sunday of the new year, January 4.  Please let us know by reply email if you would like to host (or co-host) this Sunday's refreshments.  Also, check the new sign up sheet in the Sanctuary for opportunities to host refreshments for any Sunday, January through March.

 

Saving Jesus, a revolutionary exploration of Jesus Christ for the third millennium, is the title of video discussion series scheduled to begin on Sunday, January 11, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  Watch for more details next week. 

 

Thanks to all who helped to make the Advent-Christmas season special at Walnut Hill, from our Advent wreath and lighters, to our Advent Booklet and writers, to Christmas Potluck and Party hosts and guests, to the Children's Pageant directors and players, to Sanctuary decorators and poinsettia providers, to Giving Tree givers and Innkeeper's Offering donors, to Sunday refreshment hosts, to worship leaders and worshipers young and old.  Thank you all!

 

News of the Congregation:

     *Over $600 was received for the "Innkeeper's Offering" at our two Christmas Eve gatherings.  The Innkeeper's Offering supports the work of the Salvation Army providing shelter for homeless women, children, and families.

     *On Sunday, December 28, two hand-made benches in Trinity Hall were dedicated in memory of Shelby Shanklin, Jr.  Shelby's children Alice, David, and Craig sponsored the project and were present for the dedication.  

     *A photograph of this year's Christmas Pageant cast is available for viewing on the Walnut Hill Website.  Check it out at www.walnuthillchurchky.org.

 

Happy New Year!

 

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill

December 26, 2008

 

Dear Friends:

 

Merry Christmas to all.  I hope that your holiday celebrations have been joyful.

 

Just a reminder that those attending worship this Sunday, December 28, are invited to bring one item of "holiday goodies" (leftovers welcome) for the refreshment table.  We will gather after worship and share the joy of the Christmas season.

 

At the same time as we gather after worship, we will take a few moments to dedicate the two new benches in Trinity Hall in memory of our fellow member and friend, Shelby Shanklin. 

 

Merry Christmas!

 

Mike Ward 

weekly letter

December 23, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

Joyce Rupp reflects on the words of Isaiah - "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who...brings good news." (Isa. 52:7)

 

     It is Christmas!  It is the most wondrous feast - the birthday of the One who came to show us a God of love. How beautiful are the feet of those who walk the extra step across a room to greet someone with whom they have had differences. How beautiful are the feet of those who step beyond the material gifts and appreciate the heart of the giver. How beautiful are the feet of those who move about in the kitchen making the special foods and serving the guests who gather. How beautiful are the feet of those who not only go to church services but who also fully participate by greeting others joyfully, praying and singing heartily. How beautiful are the feet of those who walk into homeless shelters or places with little comfort to bring some of their own abundance.  Yes, how beautiful are all those feet who walk with glad tidings this day, with the intention of love in their hearts, for they are living the message of the One who came so long ago.  The Christ of abundant love, born some two thousand years ago, lives on in us.  As our feet take us near and far, let us continue to be the Christ to one another.

(from Inviting God In)

Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24:

                    *5pm - Carols and Candlelight - This service of lessons and carols is intended for all ages and will include a candlelight ceremony.

                    *9pm - Evening Prayer Fireside - For those who would like a quieter Christmas Eve experience, we will gather around the fireplace in Trinity Hall for a guided reflection on the meaning of Christmas.  This service is intended for adults and older youth.

 

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 28, 1st Sunday after Christmas:

     Isaiah 61:10 - 62:3

     Galatians 4:4-7

     Luke 2:22-40

(Morning worship will be held at its regular time, 11am, on Sunday, December 28.  Nursery care and Sunday School for children will be available.)

 

Sunday Refreshments:  Persons attending worship on Sunday, December 28, are invited to bring their leftover "holiday goodies" to share after worship.  We will gather in Trinity Hall and enjoy the fellowship of Christmastide.

 

Sunday Conversations Bible Study is dismissed for this Sunday, December 28.  Look for our Sunday Conversations to resume on January 4.

 

Holiday thanks to... Thomas and John Rawlings, Kim Thomasson, and Barb Waldmann-Ward for their work decorating the Sanctuary for Christmas, and for those who sponsored our poinsettias; all those persons who participated in the Giving Tree Program.  A grateful family received a carload of presents on Sunday afternoon; eleven youth who attended the Walnut Hill Youth Christmas Party last Sunday, bringing gifts for each other as well as for Kentucky Refugee Ministries; the choir, the Trail family, Oggie and Beth Hilliard, Phil Bloomfield, Thomas and Meredith Rawlings for their leadership and service during our Christmas Communion service on Sunday; the Swim family for our refreshments after worship last Sunday. 

 

Merry Christmas!

 

Mike Ward 

weekly letter

December 17, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

     As we draw close to the Nativity, analysis gives way to reflection as prose gives way to poetry:

 

In each heart lies a Bethlehem,

an inn where we must ultimately answer

whether there is room or not.

When we are Bethlehem-bound

we experience our own advent in his.

When we are Bethlehem-bound

we can no longer look the other way

conveniently not seeing stars

not hearing angel voices.

We can no longer excuse ourselves by busily

tending our sheep or our kingdoms.

 

This Advent let's go to Bethlehem

and see this thing that the Lord has made known to us.

In the midst of the shopping sprees

let's ponder in our hearts the Gift of Gifts.

Through the tinsel

let's look for the gold of the Christmas Star.

In the excitement and confusion, in the merry chaos,

let's listen for the brush of angels' wings.

This Advent, let's go to Bethlehem

and find our kneeling places.

(by Ann Weems from Kneeling in Bethlehem)

 

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 21, the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Holy Communion:

     Isaiah 9:2-7

     Titus 2:11-14

     Luke 2:1-20

 

CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE:

     Sunday, December 21, 11am - Christmas Worship and Holy Communion - This service will include a formal Christmas liturgy (with choir) and Holy Communion.

     Wednesday, December 24, Christmas Eve 

                    *5pm - Carols and Candlelight - This service of lessons and carols is intended for all ages and will include a candlelight ceremony.

                    *9pm - Evening Prayer Fireside - For those who would like a quieter Christmas Eve experience, we will gather around the fireplace in Trinity Hall for a guided reflection on the meaning of Christmas.  This service is intended for adults and older youth.

 

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, December 20, 8am, at Paneras (Richmond Road).  Feel free to stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows.  No rsvp required.

 

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 21, 10am, in Trinity Hall, with our ongoing series The Christmas Stories.  Our focus will be The Shepherds (Luke 2:8-20).  Feel free to join the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

Youth Christmas Party - Youth, their families (parents too!), and other guests are invited to a Christmas Season gathering at the home of Mike, Barb, and William Ward, on Sunday, December 21, 6:30 - 8:00pm.  Youth (and any youth guests or siblings present) should bring a fun gift (under $5 value) for a random gift exchange and a household cleaning item (or two) for donation to KY Refugee Ministries. Rsvp to the Wards or to the church office (263-5304) by December 19.

 

The Giving Tree:  Those participating in our "Giving Tree" program are asked to return your "ornaments and gifts" by this Sunday, December 21.  Thank you for helping Walnut Hill provide an abundant Christmas for a family nearby.

 

Thanks, news, etc...

     *Thanks to... Nell Horman, Lauren Fouts, and a host of other helpers for all the effort that went into last Sunday's "Christmas Pageant" presentation.  Not to be forgotten, thanks to the children and youth for their good spirited participation...Irene and Alan Bloomfield for their hospitality in hosting our Christmas Party last Sunday.  Over forty persons attended this traditional Walnut Hill gathering...Lyle and Mary Diane Hanna for lighting the Advent candles last Sunday.

     *Poinsettias for decorating the sanctuary may be sponsored ($15/plant) by contacting Lee Tucker or by calling the church office (263-5304).  Sponsors are welcome to take their plants home after the Christmas holiday.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward

Christmas Party

WALNUT HILL CHURCH

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY

 

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 3PM - 5PM

1202 DELONG PLACE

 

BRING AN HORS-D'OEUVRE OR DESSERT ITEM

 

The Annual Christmas Party is an opportunity for adults to gather and celebrate the season.  This year's party is being held at the home of Irene and Alan Bloomfield, 1202 Delong Place.  Delong Place is located off Delong Road.  The Bloomfields' is the first residence on the left.  Irene and Alan advise us that for anyone needing it, easy access into the house (without stairs) is available through the garage entrance.  See you Sunday.

weekly letter

December 10, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

Several women play prominent roles in the Nativity story including Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, Mary the mother of Jesus, and Anna the prophetess (see Luke 1 & 2).  These gospel characters remind us of the unique role of women as they embody and proclaim the good news of God's love.  Consider the following:

 

     For centuries, women have proclaimed mercy and comfort, nurture and life-giving peace.  In each era and culture, the role of women changes, but the strength of their proclamation continues.  The blessings and the hope of the women of Christmas are important for our era and culture.  Whatever pathway a woman chooses to follow, her calling in Christ is the proclamation and blessing of Christ's presence in the world.  Through the incarnation, God cradled creation in the womb of God's Word and brought forth mercy and comfort to all peoples of the earth - indeed, to all creation.

(from These Twelve Days by James Kasperson & Marina Lachecki)

 

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 14, Third Sunday of Advent:

     Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

     1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

     Luke 1:46-55

 

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 14, with our ongoing series The Christmas Stories.  Our focus on Sunday will be The Stable at Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7).  Feel free to join in the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

Children's Presentation - The children will be presenting their interpretation of Christmas through music, word, and sign this Sunday, December 14, during morning worship.  Don't miss this wonderful presentation of the Christmas story.

 

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY - Our annual Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, December 14, 3 - 5pm, at the home of Irene and Alan Bloomfield, 1202 Delong Place.  This traditional gathering is an opportunity for adults to share Christmas cheer.  Bring an hors-d'oeuvre or dessert item.  The Bloomfields remind us that easy entry (without steps) into the house can be found through the garage, so feel free to enter that way if you would like.

 

Walnut Hill Women will gather for dinner this evening, December 10, at Buddy's restaurant.  Each attendee will purchase her own meal.  The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss future women's programs/meetings, including possible dates, topics, speakers, etc.  Contact the Natalie Watt or Dorothy Brockopp, or call the church office (263-5304), for more information.

 

The Giving Tree - All those participating in the "Giving Tree" program are asked to return their gift items by Sunday, December 21.  Place your gifts around the "Giving Tree" in Trinity Hall.

 

Another Giving Opportunity: This is the season of giving, and another giving opportunity has arisen, namely to present some simple holiday gifts to our new Iraqi neighbors Raghad, Rania, and Zahra.  Use reply email or contact the church office if you would like to help with this giving opportunity.

 

Youth Christmas Party - Youth, their families (parents too!), and other guests are invited to a Christmas Season gathering at the home of Mike, Barb, and William Ward, on Sunday, December 21, 6:30 - 8:00pm.  Youth (and any youth guests or siblings present) should bring a fun gift (under $5 value) for a random gift exchange and a household cleaning item (or two) for donation to KY Refugee Ministries. Rsvp to the Wards or to the church office (263-5304).

 

CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE:

     Sunday, December 21, 11am - Christmas Worship and Holy Communion - This service will include a formal Christmas liturgy (with choir) and Holy Communion.

     Wednesday, December 24, Christmas Eve 

                    *5pm - Carols and Candlelight - This service of lessons and carols is intended for all ages and will include a candlelight ceremony.

                    *9pm - Evening Prayer Fireside - For those who would like a quieter Christmas Eve experience, we will gather around the fireplace in Trinity Hall for a guided reflection on the meaning of Christmas.  This service is intended for adults and older youth.

 

Thanks, news, etc....

     *Thanks to...Meredith, Katie, and Gary Swim for lighting the Advent Candles last Sunday; the Choir, JR & Elaine Horn, Ron Johnston, Aaron and Cory Sharrard for their leadership and assistance during worship; the Bohmers and the Hilliards for coordinating our Christmas potluck; Nell Horman, Amy Trail, Jo Wallen, Derek Vaughan, and other volunteers for their work with children and youth last Sunday.

     *Poinsettias for decorating the sanctuary may be sponsored by contacting Lee Tucker.  Sponsors are welcome to take their plants home after the Christmas holiday.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward          

Christmas Potluck

WALNUT HILL CHURCH

CHRISTMAS POTLUCK

 

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

AFTER WORSHIP

IN TRINITY HALL

 

BRING A SALAD, SIDE DISH, OR DESSERT

 

No rsvp required

 

weekly letter

December 3, 2008

 

Greetings to all!

 

We move into the church season of Advent even as we move into the more popular "holiday season" with its endless activities, some of which delight us, others of which overwhelm us.  Joyce Rupp offers a helpful reminder.

 

     Could there be any better time than Advent to focus on and remember that God dwells in our midst?  I find it particularly necessary to be aware of God's nearness when I am zooming through December, busy about too many things.  It is easy to get swallowed up by my anxiety or discouragement, knowing that I am unable to do all the planning and preparations I would like to do before Christmas comes.

     I draw inspiration and encouragement when I recognize that the one whose birth I am preparing to celebrate, dwells in the midst of all my activities and relationships.  I have only to open my inner eyes and recognize the presence of God in the love, joy, care, concern, honesty and peace of those around me.  I also need to be mindful of how God is present in those who have very little joy because of their physical or mental condition, financial deprivation, or the violence of their political situation.  It is here that I meet the suffering Christ. Busyness dulls my awareness of the presence of Emmanuel.  Excessive attention to material things lessens my bond with God.  God is with me, if only I slow down long enough to look and see.

(from Inviting God In)

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, December 7, 2nd Sunday of Advent, Holy Communion:

     Isaiah 40:1-11

     2 Peter 3:8-15

     Mark 1:1-8

 

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee this Saturday, December 6, 8am, at Paneras (Richmond Road).  Feel free to stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows.  No rsvp required.

 

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 7, with our series, The Christmas Stories.  This Sunday we will focus on "Joseph's Dream" (Matthew 1:18-25).  Feel free to join the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in.

 

CHRISTMAS SEASON POTLUCK- Our traditional congregational potluck to celebrate the Christmas season will be held on Sunday, December 7, immediately after worship, in Trinity Hall.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert.  Don't miss this festive occasion for all ages. 

 

Annual Christmas Party - Our annual Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, December 14, 3 - 5pm, at the home of Irene and Alan Bloomfield, 1202 Delong Place.  This traditional gathering is an opportunity for adults to share Christmas cheer.  Bring an hors-d'oeuvre or dessert item. 

 

ATTENTION Walnut Hill Women:  Natalie Watt and Dorothy Brockopp invite all Walnut Hill women to a dinner and conversation at Buddy's restaurant on Wednesday, December 10, 6:30 p.m.  Each attendee will purchase her own meal.  The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss future women's programs/meetings, including possible dates, topics, speakers, etc.  Please rsvp to Natalie or to the church office (Walnut.hillchurch@verizon.net or 263-5304) before December 3.  You may also rsvp via the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer. 

 

Youth Christmas Party - Youth, their families (parents too!), and other guests are invited to a Christmas Season gathering at the home of Mike, Barb, and William Ward, on Sunday, December 21, 6:30 - 8:00pm.  Youth (and any youth guests or siblings present) should bring a fun gift (under $5 value) for a random gift exchange and a household cleaning item (or two) for donation to KY Refugee Ministries. Rsvp to Mike and Barb (276-4285).

 

Thanks, news, etc...

     *Thanks to...Carol and Norman Drury for lighting the Advent candle this past Sunday; Ruth Sharrard for crafting the Advent wreath; the Talbott family for crafting the ornaments for the "Giving Tree" and to all those who picked up ornaments; Dave Sharrard and Gene Brockopp for some needed repair on the big screen t.v.

     *We continue to receive donations toward the Athens-Chilesburg Elementary School 5th Grade class trip to Washington, DC.  So far we have received $1,688 toward the total $5,885 required to underwrite the participation of 11 children who otherwise would be unable to participate.  Gifts of any size are welcome.  Thanks to all who have donated so far.

     *The Presbytery of Transylvania will be meeting this Friday and Saturday at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington.  Mike Ward will be attending this meeting.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward