Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Greetings to all!

Once again an act of violence has shaken the world, or at least the western world. 
Regrettably, we know that violence has been, and is, an everyday reality for much 
of the world and for many people. The remembrance of violence is even a part of the 
Holy Week journey, particularly the events of Good Friday.  May Jesus' experience 
of violence including his arrest, trial, scourging and crucifixion be a catalyst for us, 
his disciples, to reject all forms of violence against others including bullying, terror, 
torture, execution and war as acceptable means to achieve civilized ends.  People 
of faith should know that violence is never the will of God for humankind.  May we 
find the courage to declare and live that truth, and so prove ourselves to be Christ's 
disciples during this Holy Week and beyond.

HOLY WEEK AT WALNUT HILL CHURCH
*Thursday, March 24, Maundy Thursday: 
-7pm - Evening Prayer - Join us as we remember the evening of Jesus' arrest 
as told by the Gospel writer Luke. This quiet service will include the sacrament of the 
Lord's Supper, readings, prayer, silence, conversation and songs.  This gathering 
is intended for adults and older youth. The nursery will not be staffed on Maundy 
Thursday. 
*Sunday, March 27, Easter Sunday:
-7am - Sunrise Service - Join us as we gather in the Walnut Hill Cemetery 
to hear the mysterious news of the empty tomb. Dress for the outdoors.  In case of 
inclement weather, the service will be held in the Sanctuary.  The nursery will not 
be staffed for the Sunrise Service.
-10am - Sunday Conversations - You are welcome to gather for a cup of 
coffee and informal conversation regarding the meaning of Easter Day.
-11am - Morning Worship and Holy Communion - Join us for a traditional 
liturgy and the sacrament in celebration of the Risen Christ.  Nursery care and 
Sunday School will be available for children.
-Noon - After Worship Gathering - All are invited to gather for refreshments 
and fellowship.  Bring one (1) item to add to the refreshment table.

The One Great Hour of Sharing Offering will be received at Walnut Hill Church 
this Sunday, March 27.  If you have been using an OGHS collection box at home, 
please bring it to Walnut Hill this Sunday.  You may also contribute by cash or check 
payable to Walnut Hill Church, designated "OGHS."  For more information regarding 
the purpose of this offering, visit OGHS .

Easter Lilies:  As is our custom, the Walnut Hill Sanctuary will be decorated with 
lilies on Easter Sunday.  You may sponsor a lily for $20.  Sponsorships may be 
memorial or honorary.  The deadline to advise us of a memorial or honorary 
sponsorship is Friday, March 25.  Use reply email or call the church office (263-5304) 
to sponsor a lily for Easter Sunday.

The Long Range Planning Forum III, focusing on buildings and grounds, has been 
rescheduled for Sunday, April 10, 3:30pm.

Bookkeeping/Accounting - Walnut Hill Church is currently seeking the services 
of a professional to provide regular bookkeeping and accounting services.  The 
recommendations of Walnut Hill members and friends are greatly appreciated.  
Use reply email and/or call the church office with your referrals and 
recommendations.

Thanks to all who were part of a full and meaningful day last Sunday, March 20,
including the children's music presentation and Easter egg hunt, as well as the
Lee Tucker memorial service and reception.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward



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