weekly letter

January 21, 2009

 

Greetings to all!

 

    January 18 - 25 is being observed in many communities as "The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity."  This annual January observance (the exact dates change from year to year) finds its origin in 1908 and a small Episcopal congregation in New York.  From its early and very local beginnings, the observance has spread around the nation and around the world.  In anticipation of this year's observance, leaders of various denominations have published the following letter:

 

Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Each year during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity our communities of faith gather to express the degree of communion which the churches have already received, and to pray together for the full unity which is Christ's will "that all may be one," as he and the Father are one. We see this desire for Christian Unity expressed in the text of Ezekiel in which he did not despair but proclaimed a message of hope for the renewal and the unity of God's people, "that they may become one in your hand."(Ezekiel 37:17)

As we gather once again and pray in the hope of Christian Unity may our actions and prayers embody the true peace, reconciliation, and unity which is to be found where God dwells. For Ezekiel and for our communities of faith this unity is not simply the joining of previously divided groups; it is God's intention for God's people that requires conversion and renewal. In this prayer for unity is found the hope that God's people may yet be one.    (from The Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute)

The Scripture lessons for Sunday, January 25, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity:

     Jonah 3:1-5, 10

     1 Corinthians 7:29-31

     Mark 1:14-20

 

Saving Jesus, a video discussion series exploring Jesus Christ for the third millennium, continues this Sunday, January 25, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  This Sunday's session, "The Teachings of Jesus," explores Jesus' use of subversive parables and aphorisms (e.g. the Good Samaritan).  Feel free to join in the conversation, enjoy a cup of coffee, or just listen in. Childcare will be provided for infants and young children. 

 

Men's Dinner - The next Walnut Hill Men's Dinner is scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, 6pm, at Buddy's (corner of Euclid Ave. and High St.).  We look forward to welcoming Mr. Al Smith, longtime Kentucky political commentator, as our special guest for the evening.  Mr. Smith's remarks for the evening are titled, "Politics: The Bumpy Weather Ahead." Please rsvp via reply email, the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer, or by contacting Gene Brockopp.

 

Women's Dinner - The next Walnut Hill Women's Dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 6:30pm, at Buddy's (corner of Euclid Ave. and High St.).  Dr. Emily Askew, Professor of Theology at Lexington Seminary, will be the speaker.  Contact Natalie Watt or Dorothy Brockopp, or use the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer to rsvp.

 

The Souper Bowl of Caring is coming on Sunday, February 1, with delicious soup after worship and opportunity to support hunger relief efforts in central Kentucky.  In 2008, over 14,000 congregations participated nationwide, generating over 10 million dollars in donations.  All Walnut Hill donations will be sent to God's Pantry in Lexington.  Watch for more details.

 

2008 Giving Statements for tax preparation will soon be in the mail to you.  Walnut Hill donors will receive two statements this year, one for each half of the year.  The reason for these two statements is a transition in recording procedures that began on July 1.  Please contact the church office (263-5304) if you have any questions regarding your 2008 giving statement.

 

In the Community:

     *The Christian-Muslim Dialogue will meet on Saturday, January 24, 10am - Noon, at Hunter Presbyterian Church.  Rev. Robert Silvanic will present a program on "A Spiritual Path to Peace."  The program is followed by a potluck lunch.

     *The public is invited to Pax Christi Catholic Church in Lexington on Sunday, January 25, 7pm, for a worship service in observance of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.  The Rt. Rev. Stacy Sauls, Episcopal Bishop of Lexington, will be among the worship leaders.

 

A Reminder:  If a Sunday worship service at Walnut Hill is cancelled due to weather, a message indicating the cancellation will be placed on the church voice mail by 9am that Sunday morning.  So..., if the weather on a Sunday morning leaves you wondering about services at Walnut Hill, simply call the church phone (263-5304) after 9am.  A regular message indicates service as usual.  A special message will indicate any changes or cancellations.

 

Peace to all.

 

Mike Ward