Greetings to all!
December 28 is observed in some traditions as the "Feast of the
Holy Innocents," recalling Matthew's story of King Herod violently seeking
to kill the newborn Jesus, with the result being the deaths of many children
in Bethlehem. It is, perhaps, the shadow side of Christmas, a sobering
reminder of how children often bear the brunt of adult actions in families,
in nations, and in the world. If we can bear to be mindful of this day, it
provides an occasion for us to reflect on, pray for, and commit ourselves
to the well-being of children in our homes and around the world. In
that spirit, consider the following prayer.
Great God,
guard the laughter of children.
Bring them safely through the perils of childhood,
so they may live the promises you give.
Do not let us be so preoccupied with our plans
that we fail to hear their voices,
or pay attention to their special vision of the truth;
but keep us with them,
ready to listen and to love,
even as in Jesus Christ you have loved us,
your grown-up and sometimes wayward children. Amen.
(adapted from the Book of Common Worship)
In Memory: Martha Moore departed this life on Friday, December 23.
Martha and her late husband Tom were long time members of Walnut Hill
Church. Services and burial for Martha will be held at Walnut Hill Church
and Cemetery on Thursday, December 29, 11am. Keep Martha's children,
Jane Lee and John, in your prayers.
The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 1, the Epiphany of the Lord:
Isaiah 60:1-6
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12
(The sacrament of Holy Communion)
Nursery Care and Sunday School for children will be provided during
worship this Sunday, January 1.
After worship refreshments this Sunday, January 1, will be of the
spontaneous variety. You are invited to bring one (1) item for the
refreshment table. Regular after-worship hospitality will resume on
Sunday, January 8.
Sunday Conversations program is dismissed for this Sunday,
January 1. Sunday Conversations will resume at 10am, Sunday,
January 8.
Thanks to all who attended our Christmas Eve service and contributed
to the Innkeeper's Offering. Over $800 was received to support the
Salvation Army's services to homeless women, children, and families.
Happy New Year to all!
Mike Ward
No comments:
Post a Comment