Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Greetings to all!

While the world is already on to other things, the church lingers over the 
Christmas stories, exploring their various meanings.  Among them is
the "Visit of the Magi," traditionally associated with the Feast of Epiphany
(Jan 6).  We will observe Epiphany at Walnut Hill Church this Sun, Jan 3.  
Consider this excerpt from Ann Weems' poem, "The Church Year."

The church is Epiphany.
We are the Magi, searching,
resplendent in this world's accouterments
of knowledge and wealth and achievement.
But we search for something more.
And - of all unlikely places -
in a stable
the Deity appears.
The borning of our Lord
bursts in upon our ordinary lives
like fireworks in the snow.
Only God would send a little baby King,
and we are on our knees,
where we are within reach of our full personhood.

(as found in Kneeling in Bethlehem)

In Memory - Mrs. Jane Acree Scott, a member of Walnut Hill Church, 
departed this life on December 22, 2015.  Services and burial were held 
on December 28 in the Richmond Cemetery.

The scripture lessons for Sun, Jan 3, the observance of Epiphany…
Isaiah 60:1-6
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee and
conversation each Saturday morning, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond
Road.  Feel free to stop by for as long or short a time as your schedule
allows.  No rsvp required.

Sunday Conversations continue this Sun, Jan 3, 10am, in Trinity
Hall.  Our conversation topic will be "Jesus and Paul," as we explore
the similarities and differences in their teachings.

Hospitality - 2016 -  The new year brings new opportunities to host our
after worship gatherings.  Visit the online sign up sheet to host a Sunday 
in early 2016.  You may also volunteer via the traditional sign up sheet in 
the Sanctuary foyer.  Thanks to all our 2015 hosts!

Refugee Ministry - Ms. Dabney Parker, KY Refugee Ministries, will be 
our guest on Sun, Jan 10, 10am, to visit with us regarding the current
refugee situation that is so much in the news these days.  She will also
share information regarding how Walnut Hill might help in this important
work.

Community Conversation - The second community conversation regarding
long range planning ideas and recommendations will be held on Sun, Jan 10, 
3pm - 5pm, in Trinity Hall.  All Walnut Hill members and friends are encouraged 
to attend.

Innkeepers Offering - Thanks to a generous turnout on Christmas Eve,
Walnut Hill will be sending $1,613 to support the Salvation Army (Lexington
Unit) in its ministry to homeless women, children, and families.

Kroger Community Rewards - Thanks to the support of 29 households,
Walnut Hill received $350 from the Kroger Community Rewards program
for the quarter year recently ended.  Contact the church office for 
information on how you can participate.

Happy New Year!

Mike Ward

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