Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Greetings to all!

I have been thinking about the relationship between violence, hatred and fear.  I find 
myself agreeing with Thomas Merton that fear is a root cause of hatred, which often 
leads to violence of one sort or another.  Perhaps those who act out in violence are 
fearful of someone, or some group, or even some idea.  They come to hate the one(s) 
they fear, and in some cases seek to destroy the object(s) of their fear.  No wonder the 
scriptures so often counsel us not to be afraid, for the fruit of fear is hate, and the fruit 
of hate is violence.  Therefore, even in the wake of indescribable violence, let us not be 
afraid, lest we also find ourselves thinking and acting in ways that we can hardly imagine, 
individually and as a people.

The scripture lesson for Sunday, June 19, 2016
Romans 12:1-2, 9-21
(in response to the events in Orlando)

A Memorial Service for Dr. John Cole will be held at Walnut Hill Church on Saturday,
June 18, 11am.  Visitation will follow the service.  See John R. Cole for his obituary.

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, June 19, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  We 
continue our exploration of the "Gospel of John" as guided by Bishop John Spong.
Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the conversation, or just listen in.

A SUMMER EVENING TOGETHER - Wednesday, June 22, 6pm - All ages are invited 
to gather for an evening of food and fellowship on June 22.  We'll fire up the grill for 
hamburgers and hot dogs.  Bring a "cookout" side dish or dessert. We will share some 
"fun activities" together and close the gathering with evening prayer (around 7:45pm).  
We look forward to seeing you there.  Use reply email or call the church office
(859-263-5304) to let us know of your plans to attend.

Resettlement Update - It is hard to believe that the Al-Nawasra family has now been
in Lexington for six weeks.  With the help of several Walnut Hill folks and Kentucky
Refugee Ministries, they continue to work on language and other skills needed to
function well in American society.  Continue to keep the family in your good thoughts
and prayers.  Use reply email if you would like information on how you might help
in their settling in.

The Walnut Hill Bike Ride is coming on Saturday, July 16.  This is an annual event
offering hospitality for cyclists of all ages and skill levels while raising money to provide
commuter bikes to refugee families.  Watch for more information on how you can 
participate as a cyclist and/or a volunteer.

The Hope Center - As you travel, or prepare for travel, this summer, remember that
we are gathering "travel size" toiletry items for our homeless neighbors who are served
by the Hope Center.  Place your donations in the collection box located in the 
Sanctuary foyer.  Visit The Hope Center for more information regarding its ministry.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward




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