Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, December 31, at Walnut Hill Church…

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS

EPIPHANY (observed)

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - The Wise Ones

Text -Matthew 2:1-12

Nursery Care and Faith Formation for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Bring one plate of your "leftover holiday treats" to share.

*****

*10am conversation program is canceled for this Sunday.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, December 27, 2018

Greetings to all!

This coming Sunday (Dec 31) we will accelerate the church calendar a bit

by reflecting on the story of the Magi (a.k.a. the Wise Men/Three Kings),

which is traditionally observed on January 6, Epiphany. The Magi's visit 

to honor the newborn Jesus is set against King Herod's intentions to kill 

him, providing contrasting images of power.  Donald Senior comments…

In blunt terms, Matthew draws a contrast between the deadly use of

power by King Herod and the life-giving power that would be exercised

by Jesus…In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus will teach his disciples to love

the enemy and to refrain from returning violence for violence.  The power

of Jesus would be exercised in healing, in confronting injustice, and in

liberating those gripped by demonic forces…In a world with so many

examples of destructive power bent on dehumanizing and dividing the

human family, the challenge of the gospel has seldom had more

importance.  The Magi appear in Matthew 2 bringing their lavish gifts for 

the newborn king of the Jews and offering the church bold opportunities

for proclaiming the gospel in today's world.

(as found in the journal Interpretation)

*The lectionary texts for the Epiphany of the Lord…

Isaiah 60:1-6

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Ephesians 3:1-12

Matthew 2:1-12

New Year's Eve - Bring a plate of your "holiday leftovers" to share for 

our after worship gathering on Sunday, December 31.  We will help you

dispose of these leftover treats in festive fashion.

Being Christian is the title of a book by Rowan Williams, former Archbishop 

of Canterbury, exploring four essential aspects of the Christian experience: 

Baptism, Bible, Eucharist and Prayer.  We will be talking about Williams' book 

over the Sundays of January, beginning Sunday, January 7.  Contact the 

church office to pick up a copy of the book for your reading and reflection.

Kits - The Walnut Hill Sunday School is gathering supplies for Church 

World Service Hygiene Kits and School Kits.  These kits are distributed 

in communities affected by natural disasters.  Visit Hygiene Kits and/or 

School Kits for a list of eligible items.  Bring items to Walnut Hill over the 

next several weeks.  The kits will be assembled and shipped in January.

End-of-Year Giving - Thanks to numerous persons who have made

special end-of-year contributions to support Walnut Hill's life and ministry.  

Remember that end-of-year gifts must be in-hand or post marked to the

church by December 31 to count toward your 2017 tax liability.

What do the films The Matrix, The Truman Show, Man of Steel, Dogma,

Dark City, Altered States, Star Trek V, Avatar, Pi, Pleasantville and

Out on a Limb have in common?  They will all be part of our Sunday

(10am) conversations in Lent, starting Feb 18.  Between now and then

you might want to search your dvd bin or your online streaming service 

and refresh your memory of them.

Thanks to all who helped Walnut Hill "keep Christmas well" including party 

hosts and guests, pageant singers, actors and readers, "Giving Tree" and 

"Innkeeper's Offering" donors, poinsettia sponsors and Sanctuary decorators,

worshippers and well-wishers.  Indeed, it has been a "good Christmas" at

Walnut Hill!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Mike Ward

 

 

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, December 24, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

CHRISTMAS EVE

What Are We Waiting For?, 10am, Trinity Hall

Love

We conclude our series of Advent conversations as we 

discuss the Advent virtue, "love".

Nursery care available for young children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - No Room

Text - Luke 2:1-20

The Sacrament of Baptism

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery Care and Faith Formation for Children

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments (hot cider &

cookies) and fellowship.

Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight, 5pm, Sanctuary

All ages are invited to this service of readings, songs,

the manger scene, and candlelight.

*****

The Innkeeper's Offering will be received on Christmas

Eve to support the Salvation Army's ministry of providing

shelter and services to homeless women, children, and

families.  Cash and checks payable to Walnut Hill Church

(memo: Innkeeper's Offering) are welcome.  Place your

contributions in the baskets located in the Sanctuary

foyer.

Walnut Hill Church

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Greetings to all!

Christmas is now upon us.  Hopefully most of our preparations (both

material and spiritual) are complete.  Now it is time to simply open our

lives and our selves to receive God's gift to us.  Ann Weems offers a 

final poetic thought as we make our hearts ready…

What do I want for Christmas?

I want to kneel in Bethlehem,

the air thick with alleluias,

the angels singing

that God is born among us.

In the light of the Star,

I want to see them come,

the wise ones and the humble.

I want to see them come

bearing whatever they treasure

to lay at the feet

of the one who gives his life.

What do I want for Christmas?

To see in that stable

the whole world kneeling in thanks

for a promise kept: new life.

For in his nativity

we find ours.

(from Kneeling in Bethlehem)

The lectionary texts for Dec 24, the 4th Sun of Advent/Christmas Eve…

Isaiah 9:2-7

Psalm 96

Titus 2:11-14

Luke 2:1-20

"What Are We Waiting For?" conversations continue this Sun, Dec 24, 

10am, in Trinity Hall, as we talk about the Advent virtue, "love".

Christmas Eve, December 24, Schedule:

10am - What Are We Waiting For?

11am - Morning Worship & Holy Communion

Noon - After Worship Gathering

5pm - Lessons, Carols and Candlelight

The Innkeeper's Offering will be received on Christmas Eve.  The

Innkeeper's Offering supports the Salvation Army's ministry of shelter and

services for homeless women and families.  Cash and checks payable

to Walnut Hill Church (memo: "Innkeeper's Offering") are welcome.

Thanks to all those who supported the "Giving Tree" for local families 

and made special contributions in relief of persons affected by recent 

wildfires in California.  Our outreach has been both near and far this

season.

Faith Formation in January - a series titled "Being Christian" focusing 

on the book by Rowan Williams. Contact the church office for an advance 

copy of the book.

End-of-Year Giving - Thanks to numerous persons who have made

special end-of-year contributions to support Walnut Hill's life and ministry.  

Remember that end-of-year gifts must be in-hand or post marked to the

church by December 31 to count toward your 2017 tax liability.

Merry Christmas to all!

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, December 17, at Walnut Hill Church…

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

CHRISTMAS PARTY

What Are We Waiting For?, 10am, Trinity Hall

Peace

Our conversation around Advent virtues continues this Sunday

as we discuss the virtue, "peace".  Come and share your thoughts, 

questions and insights.  Use reply email to request an advance

copy of the morning's "reflection and conversation starters".

Nursery care will be available for young children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - #MaryToo? 

Text - Luke 1:46-55

Nursery Care and Faith Formation for Children/Youth

CHRISTMAS PARTY, 3pm - 5pm, at the Hilliard Residence

Bring an hors-d'œuvre or dessert item and join us for this

traditional holiday gathering.  Use reply email for directions

and/or other information.  This gathering is intended for

adults.

*****

Giving Tree - Be sure to return your Giving Tree gifts, with 

ornaments attached.  Please wrap presents.  Gifts will be 

delivered to the Nathaniel Mission on Sunday afternoon.

California Wildfires - Baskets are available in the Sanctuary 

foyer to receive your gifts to support relief efforts for individuals 

and communities affected by recent wildfires.  Cash and checks

payable to Walnut Hill Church are welcome. Your gifts will be 

sent to the affected area via Episcopal Relief and Development.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Greetings to all!

As we move further into Advent, our thoughts begin to gather at Bethlehem

around the characters of the Nativity, including Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Kathleen Norris offers thoughts about Mary…

No small part of Mary's emotional weight for many women is the way in

which the church has so often used her as an ideal of passive, submissive

femininity.  But others claim her as a model of strength.  I treasure Mary as

a biblical interpreter, one who heard and believed what God told her, and

who pondered God's promise in her heart, even when, as the Gospel of

Luke describes it, it pierced her soul like a sword.  This is hardly passivity,

but the kind of faith that sustains Christian discipleship…Depictions of Mary 

as a wealthy Renaissance woman far outnumber those that make her look 

like a woman capable of walking the hill country of Judea and giving birth in 

a barn…I wonder if, as Christians, both Protestant and Catholic, seek to 

reclaim the Mary of scripture, we may well require more depictions of her as 

a robust, and even muscular, woman, in both youth and old age.

(adapted from Amazing Grace)

The lectionary texts for December 17, the Third Sunday of Advent…

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

Psalm 126 or Luke 1:46-55

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

John 1:6-8, 19-28

What Are We Waiting For?, a series of conversations about Advent virtues, 

continues on Sun, Dec 17, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  Sunday's conversation 

will focus on the virtue, "peace".

CHRISTMAS PARTY, 3pm - 5pm, at the Hilliard Residence - Join us for 

this festive holiday season gathering.  Bring an hors-d'oeuvre or dessert 

item to share.  This gathering is intended for adults.  Use reply email for

more information and/or directions.

The Giving Tree - If you picked up a Giving Tree "ornament", please

return the suggested gift (wrapped), with the ornament attached, by this 

Sunday, December 17. Thanks to all our Giving Tree givers.

Christmas Eve Schedule -

10am - What Are We Waiting For?  - Advent conversation

11am - Morning Worship and Holy Communion

5pm - Lessons, Carols and Candlelight

Kits - The Walnut Hill Sunday School is gathering supplies for Church 

World Service Hygiene Kits and School Kits.  These kits are distributed 

in communities affected by natural disasters.  Visit Hygiene Kits and/or 

School Kits for a list of eligible items.  Bring items to Walnut Hill over the 

next several weeks.  The kits will be assembled and shipped in January.

Being Christian is the title of a book by Rowan Williams (former

Archbishop of Canterbury) and the focus of our Sunday (10am)

conversations beginning Jan 7.  Use reply email to request a copy.

What do the films The Matrix, The Truman Show, Man of Steel, Dogma,

Dark City, Altered States, Star Trek V, Avatar, Pi, Pleasantville and

Out on a Limb have in common?  They will all be part of our Sunday

(10am) conversations in Lent, starting Feb 18.  Between now and then

you might want to search your dvd bin or your online streaming service 

and refresh your memory of them.

Peace to all,

Mike Ward

 

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, December 10, at Walnut Hill Church…

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

What Are We Waiting For?, 10am, Trinity Hall

JOY

We continue our exploration of "Advent virtues" with a

conversation focusing on "joy".  How is joy different from

happiness?  How does one find joy, and what is joy like?

What does joy have to do with Christmas?  Come and

share your thoughts, insights, and questions.

Christmas Pageant Practice, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children and youth participating in Sunday's Christmas

pageant/presentation are asked to gather in Trinity Hall 

for dressing, music warm-up, etc

(Children/youth are also invited to gather on Sat, 10am, 

to help with costume preparation, music practice, etc, for 

Sunday's presentation.)

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - A Costume for John the Baptist

Text - Mark 1:1-8

Children/Youth Christmas Pageant and Presentation

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Youth Christmas Party, 5:30pm, Ward Residence

Youth (middle and high school) are invited to gather for

this annual holiday event.  Bring a winter warmth item

(cap, scarf, gloves, etc) for our neighbors at the Catholic

Action Center and a "fun gift" ($5 or less) for a random

gift exchange.  Use reply email to rsvp or for more 

information.

*****

*U.S. Wildfires - Baskets will be located in the Sanctuary

foyer for your gifts in support of persons affected by recent

wildfires.  Cash and checks payable to Walnut Hill Church

are welcome.  Gifts will be sent to the area via Episcopal

Relief and Development.  Visit  "wildfires"  for a description

of ERD's response.

*Giving Tree - Bring your Giving Tree gifts (wrapped) to the

church by Sunday, December 17.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Greetings to all!

Today, December 6, is the feast day of St. Nicholas of Myra who lived in the 

fourth century.  Like many ancient saints, stories abound regarding Nicholas. 

Some of those stories seem strangely relevant to today.

The original "Old St. Nick" who inspired the tradition of Santa Claus, Nicholas

was bishop of Myra in fourth-century Turkey.  Little is known about his life

except that he entrusted himself to Jesus at an early age and, when his parents 

died, gave all of their possessions to the poor. While serving as bishop, Nicholas

learned of three girls who were going to be sold into slavery by their father.

Moved to use the church's wealth to ransom the lives of these little ones, he

tossed three bags of gold through the family's window.  We recall this ancient

Christmas gift, even as we remember that 1.2 million children are trafficked

each year in the global sex trade today.

(from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals)

The lectionary texts for December 10, the Second Sunday of Advent …

Isaiah 40:1-11

Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

2 Peter 3:8-15

Mark 1:1-8

What Are We Waiting For? a series of conversations around "advent virtues"

continues this Sun, Dec 10, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  This Sunday's conversation

will focus on "joy".  Use reply email to request an advance copy of Sunday's 

conversations starters.

Children's Christmas Presentation, Sun, Dec 10, 11am, in the Sanctuary.

The children/youth will share the Christmas story in word, song, costume and

pageantry.  Children/youth are asked to arrive at 10am on Sunday to prepare 

for their presentation.  Also, children/youth are invited to gather on Sat,10am,

to sort out costumes and practice songs and scripts.

Youth Christmas Party - Youth (middle/high school) are invited to gather at 

the Ward residence on Sunday, Dec 10, 5:30pm - 7:00pm, for their annual 

Christmas gathering.  Bring a winter warmth item (cap, gloves, scarf) to share 

with our neighbors at the Catholic Action Center and a "fun gift" ($5 value or 

less) for a random gift exchange.  Use reply email to rsvp.

The Giving Tree - Thanks to all those who picked up ornaments from the

Giving Tree.  Please return the suggested gifts (wrapped), with the ornament

attached, by Sunday, December 17.

Christmas Poinsettias - We will be decorating the Sanctuary for Christmas 

this season, including Christmas poinsettias. You may "sponsor" a poinsettia 

for $20.  Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church (memo: poinsettia).  

Please indicate if your sponsorship is in memory/honor of someone.

Christmas Season Calendar…

Sun, Dec 10 - Children's Christmas Presentation - 11am

     -Youth Christmas Party - 5:30pm

Sun, Dec 17 - Christmas Party (for adults) - 3pm

Sun, Dec 24 -Morning Worship and Holy Communion - 11am

     - Lessons, Carols and Candlelight - 5pm

Kits - The Walnut Hill Sunday School is gathering supplies for Church 

World Service Hygiene Kits and School Kits.  These kits are distributed 

in communities affected by natural disasters.  Visit Hygiene Kits and 

School Kits for a list of eligible items.  Bring items to Walnut Hill over the 

next several weeks.  The kits will be assembled and shipped in January.

News to Use - The Walnut Hill Church "printed" newsletter is now available

online via the Walnut Hill Church website ( www.walnuthillchurchky.org ).

Click on the "Walnut Hill Newsletter" tab. Or visit this link: News to Use .

Did you know that you can now support Walnut Hill even when you are

not with us on Sunday by automatic check payment and electronic funds

transfer?  Use reply email for more information.

THANKS to all those who helped to make the Christmas Potluck a 

delicious success, including our meal coordinators, talented cooks, and

festive potluck-goers!  It was a great start to the holiday season. 

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

  

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, December 3, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT

CHRISTMAS SEASON POTLUCK

"What Are We Waiting For?" , 10am, Trinity Hall

HOPE

We begin a series of conversations around four "Advent

virtues," beginning with HOPE.  

(nursery care available for children)

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children (through elementary age) are invited to gather

for music and singing in anticipation of their Dec 10

Christmas presentation.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - This Is Advent!

Text -Isaiah 64:1-9

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children

CHRISTMAS POTLUCK, NOON, TRINITY HALL

Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us for this

delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

*****

The Giving Tree will be up in Trinity Hall this Sunday,

December 3.  Pick an "ornament" off the tree, purchase

the suggested gift, and return the gift (and ornament)

by Sunday, December 17.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Greetings to all!

Advent begins this Sunday, December 3, the season of preparation for the

coming (advent) of Christ.  In her poem, In December Darkness, Ann Weems

expresses the tension between darkness and light in the Advent season.

The whole world waits in December darkness

for a glimpse of the Light of God.

Even those who snarl "Humbug!"

and chase away the carolers

have been seen looking toward the skies.

The one who declared he never would forgive

has forgiven,

   and those who left home

have returned,

   and even wars are halted,

if briefly,

   as the whole world looks starward.

In the December darkness

we peer from our windows

   watching for an angel with rainbow wings

to announce the Hope of the World.

Thoughts About Advent Music - Walnut Hill's music director, Angela

Hurley, has shared some thoughts about Advent music.  Visit this link:

But Where Are the Christmas Carols?!  

The lectionary texts for Sunday, December 3, the First Sunday of Advent…

Isaiah 64:1-9

Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19

1 Corinthians 1:3-9

Mark 13:24-37

What Are We Waiting For? … is the title of a four-week conversation series

beginning this Sunday, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  Over these Sundays of Advent

we will explore four "advent virtues."  This Sunday we explore "hope." 

THE CHRISTMAS POTLUCK is this Sunday, December 3, immediately after

morning worship.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us for this

delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

The Giving Tree will be up this Sunday, December 3, in Trinity Hall.  The

Giving Tree is decorated with ornaments that suggest gifts for children and

households referred to us by the Nathaniel Mission.  Pick up an ornament,

purchase the suggested gift, and return the gift and ornament by Dec 17.

Christmas Poinsettias - We will be decorating the Sanctuary for Christmas 

this season, including Christmas poinsettias. You may "sponsor" a poinsettia 

for $20.  Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church (memo: poinsettia).  

Please indicate if your sponsorship is in memory/honor of someone.

Christmas Season Calendar…

Sun, Dec 3 - Christmas Potluck - after worship

Sun, Dec 10 - Children's Christmas Presentation - 11am

     -Youth Christmas Party - 5:30pm

Sun, Dec 17 - Christmas Party for Adults - 3pm

Sun, Dec 24 -Morning Worship and Holy Communion - 11am

     - Lessons, Carols and Candlelight - 5pm

Walking Through Scripture - A number of Walnut Hill folks have been

walking through scripture this fall, reading and reflecting on the Sunday

lectionary readings, and then discussing those readings on Sunday mornings.

While our Sunday morning conversations have moved on to other topics,

you are still encouraged to continue (or begin) your walk through scripture

by the reading and reflecting on the Sunday lessons each week.  You are

also invited to subscribe to Mike Ward's "walking guide," a weekly reflection

on the lessons.  Use reply email to subscribe.

Kits - The Walnut Hill Sunday School is gathering supplies for Church 

World Service Hygiene Kits and School Kits.  These kits are distributed 

in communities affected by natural disasters.  Visit Hygiene Kits and 

School Kits for a list of eligible items.  Bring items to Walnut Hill over the 

next several weeks.  The kits will be assembled and shipped in January.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, November 26, at Walnut Hill Church…

CHRIST THE KING

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Christ the King

Join us as we discuss the readings for the Sunday of

Christ the King including Ezekiel's critique of Israel's

shepherds, Paul's description of the Cosmic Christ,

and Jesus' Parable of the Sheep and the Goats.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather

for music and singing in preparation for their Christmas

presentation on Sunday, December 10.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - A Very Long Sentence

Text - Ephesians 1:15-23

Nursery Care and Faith Formation for Children

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Greetings to all!

You might already be on your way to this year's Thanksgiving gathering,

or perhaps anticipating some loved one's arrival.  Whether special or

ordinary, grand or simple, let us all take some time this week to share 

gratitude in thought, word and deed.  Consider this prayer for your use…

The eyes of all things look up to and trust in Thee, O Lord. Thou givest

them their food in due season; Thou dost open Thy hand and fill with

Thy blessing every living thing.  Good Lord, bless us and all Thy gifts,

which we receive of Thy bounteous generosity; through Jesus Christ

our Lord.  Amen.

(as found in the Walnut Hill Worship Book)

The lectionary texts for November 26, the Sunday of Christ the King…

Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24

Psalm 100

Ephesians 1:15-23

Matthew 25:31-46

Walking Through Scripture conversation continues this Sun, Nov 26,

as our walk takes us by Ezekiel's oracle regarding the shepherds of

Israel, Paul's musings about the Lordship of Christ, and Jesus' Parable

of the Sheep and the Goats (see texts above).  Come and share your

questions, comments, and insights.

The Giving Tree is soon to be up in Trinity Hall.  The Giving Tree is

decorated with ornaments that provide gift suggestions for children and

households referred by the Nathaniel Mission.  Stop by and pick up an

ornament, purchase the suggested gift, and return the gift (and ornament)

to Walnut Hill by December 17.

The Christmas Potluck is coming on Sun, Dec 3, immediately after

Morning Worship.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert, and join us for

this delicious holiday season tradition.  Meat and beverage will be

provided.

Christmas Cards - A limited number of Walnut Hill Christmas cards

(2016 edition) are available for your purchase in the Sanctuary foyer.

Christmas Poinsettias - As is our custom, we will be decorating the

Sanctuary for Christmas this season, including Christmas poinsettias.

You may "sponsor" a poinsettia for $20.  Make your check payable

to Walnut Hill Church (memo: poinsettia).  Please indicate if your

sponsorship is in memory/honor of someone.

Thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers who made it possible for

Walnut Hill to deliver 16 pans of delicious dressing for the Nathaniel

Mission Community Thanksgiving Dinner, which was held on Tuesday

evening.  The folks at the mission are grateful.  Thanks also to

Critchfield Meats who have been our business partners in this project

for several years.

Kits - The Walnut Hill Sunday School is gathering supplies for Church 

World Service Hygiene Kits and School Kits.  These kits are distributed 

in communities affected by natural disasters.  Visit Hygiene Kits and 

School Kits for a list of eligible items.  Bring items to Walnut Hill over the 

next several weeks.  The kits will be assembled and shipped in January.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, November 19, at Walnut Hill Church…

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

"Go for It!"

This Sunday's walk through scripture includes the story

of Deborah, Paul's warnings about the sudden nature of

Christ's return, and Jesus' Parable of the Talents. Come

share your questions, comments and insights.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather for 

music and singing in anticipation of their December 10

Christmas presentation.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Deborah

Text - Judges 4:1-10

The Sacrament of Baptism

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

Congregational Meeting, Noon, Sanctuary

All Members and Friends are encouraged to attend the

annual congregational meeting.  Business will include the

election of Vestry members/officers, presentation of the

2018 budget, action on the Pastor's 2018 terms of call,

and consideration of a revised Constitution & By-Laws 

document.

Thanksgiving Worship, 6pm, Episcopal Church of the

Resurrection

All are invited to an ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship service 

at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection (3220 Lexington 

Road, Nicholasville - just south of Brannon Crossing).  An 

offering and non-perishable food items will be received for the 

Jessamine County Food Pantry.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Greetings to all!

In her book, Being Home, Gunilla Norris offers spiritual reflections on

everyday household chores and experiences, including one that we

might find ourselves doing these days, "Laying a Fire."

Old newspapers rolled into butterflies-

a black and white nest of them.

Then comes the kindling - bits of this and that

gathered and placed on the paper.  Last, the logs.

The fire is laid and is without flame.

So often I am waiting like this, unlit,

longing for Your presence.

I can find the discipline, by habit mostly,

to lay a readiness inside myself.

But until you strike the match

there is no passion, no heat.

Let me be content to watch

for the stirring of Your flame.

Let me learn to be ready, to wait, to have no light.

Help me to trust that this, too, is obedience

…that flamelessness can also be

a kind of burning.

The lectionary texts for Nov 19, the 24th Sunday after Pentecost…

Judges 4:1-7

Psalm 123

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

Matthew 25:14-30

Walking Through Scripture conversations continue this Sunday,

Nov 19, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  This week's walk includes the story

of Deborah, Paul's counsel regarding the coming the Lord, and 

Jesus' Parable of the Talents (see texts above).

Children's Choir - Children through elementary age are invited to 

gather for music and singing in anticipation of their Christmas 

presentation on December 10.

The Annual Meeting of the Congregation of Walnut Hill Church

will be held this Sunday, November 19, Noon (immediately after

morning worship).  The business of the annual meeting includes

the election of Vestry members and officers, presentation of the

2018 budget and action upon the Pastor's 2018 terms of call. This

year's meeting also includes consideration of a revision of Walnut

Hill's Constitution and By-Laws.  Visit By-Laws to view the document

in advance.

Thanksgiving Worship - An Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship will

be held this Sunday, November 19, 6pm, at the Episcopal Church

of the Resurrection (3220 Lexington Rd, Nicholasville).  The service 

is sponsored by the Southside Ecumenical Cooperative of which 

Walnut Hill is a member congregation. An offering will be received to 

support the Jessamine County Food Pantry. Non-perishable food items 

will also be collected.

Walnut Hill Reaching Out:

*Volunteers will be delivering 16 pans of stuffing/dressing for 

the Nathaniel Mission Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov 21.

*$360 is on its way to American Heritage Girls Troop 7070 to 

support its sending of 40 Christmas gift boxes as part of the program, 

Operation Christmas Child .

*$1,000 is on its way to Lexington Habitat for Humanity to support 

its Repair/Rebuild program in 2018.

Invocation - Mike Ward will offer the invocation at the LFUCG Council 

meeting on Nov 16 by invitation from Councilperson Kathy Plomin who 

represents the 12th Council District, which includes Walnut Hill Church.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, November 12, at Walnut Hill Church…

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Eschatology

Join us a we talk about this Sunday's lectionary texts

including Paul's well-known description of the return

of the Lord and Jesus' parable of the Ten Bridesmaids,

both examples of teaching regarding the "end times,"

often referred to as eschatology.

Nursery care will be available for young children.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather

for music and singing in anticipation of their Christmas

presentation on December 10.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Being Prepared 

Text - Matthew 25:1-13

Nursery Care and Faith Formation for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

****

The Vestry will meet a 9:30am in the upstairs office of

Trinity Hall.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Greetings to all!

The analysis has begun regarding the details of the tragedy in Texas. While 

many of those details are genuinely important, they can seem endless and 

sadly familiar.  We look for answers and helpful responses that might prevent 

the next mass tragedy, not to forget the less public daily gun violence plaguing 

many of our cities. Meanwhile, it is possible for us, as individuals and as 

communities of faith, to respond in ways that nurture life and peace including … 

ongoing prayers for those affected by violence; reaching out to survivors and 

communities affected by violence; a personal commitment to "nonviolence" in 

our relationships; advocacy for public policies addressing those issues that 

make our society so violent compared to most other developed nations. Simply 

put, we are not helpless in response to such events. Let us each identify "one 

positive thing" that we can do in response to this week's event, and do it. If 

nothing else, we will discover our own power in the doing.

The lectionary texts for November 12, the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost…

Joshua 24:1-3, 14-25

Psalm 78:1-7

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Matthew 25:1-13

Walking Through Scripture conversation continues this Sunday, 10am, 

in Trinity Hall.  This week's walk includes Joshua's warning speech, Paul's 

description of the return of the Lord, and a parable of Jesus about being 

prepared, spiritually speaking (see texts above).

A Host(s) is needed for our after worship gathering this Sunday, Nov 12.

Use reply email to volunteer for this Sunday, or visit the online sign-up to 

host this Sunday or later in the season. Thanks to all our hosts!

The Annual Meeting of the congregation of Walnut Hill Church will be

held on Sunday, November 19, immediately after morning worship.

The business of the annual meeting includes the election of Vestry

members, presentation of the 2018 budget, and consideration of the

Pastor's terms of call.  This year's business will include consideration

of a revised Constitution and By-Laws document.  Visit By-laws to see

a draft of the proposed document.

Thanksgiving Worship - An Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship will be 

held on Sun, Nov 19, 6pm, at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection 

(3220 Lexington Rd, Nicholasville).  The service is sponsored by the 

Southside Ecumenical Cooperative of which Walnut Hill is a member.  

The evening offering will benefit the Jessamine County Food Pantry.  

Non-perishable food items will also be collected.

Thanksgiving Stuffing/Dressing - Once again Walnut Hill has been

asked to provide the stuffing/dressing for the Nathaniel Mission

Community Thanksgiving Dinner.  You may sponsor a pan for $20.

Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church (memo: stuffing).

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

   

Prayers for Sutherland Springs, Texas

Dear Friends:

By now you might have heard the tragic news regarding the violence in the
small town of Sutherland Springs, Texas. Over the next few days details will
emerge regarding this event. For now we do well to be in prayer for all those
affected. You might find the following prayer to be useful:

God of comfort,
Be present with all those affected by today's violence,
including those who grieve, as well as those injured.
Bring healing of both spirit and body.
Such events cause us to wonder about the state of
our world, our nation, even our selves.
Keep our hearts from becoming fearful or callous.
May we respond to violence with even greater resolve
to be agents of your peace and love to all people.
Through Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.

Peace,

Mike Ward

This Weekend at Walnut Hill Church

This weekend, November 4 - 5, at Walnut Hill Church…

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving, 1:30pm, Sanctuary

A service of remembrance and thanksgiving for the life of Walnut

Hill member Calvin Greenup will be held in the Sanctuary at

1:30pm.  The Greenup family will receive friends in Trinity Hall 

beginning at 12:30pm until the time of the service.  

Fire Ring Dedication, 5:00, Church Grounds

All are invited to gather at the newly completed "fire ring" beginning

at 5:00pm, with a dedication ceremony to be held at 5:30pm.  Tents

will be up in the case of inclement weather.  Dress for the outdoors.

Hot cider/chocolate will be served.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 - ALL SAINTS' SUNDAY

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Crossing Over

Join us as we gather to share our comments, observations and

questions regarding the Sunday lectionary readings including the

story of the Israelites crossing over into the promised land, Paul's

thanksgiving for the for the faith and life of the Thessalonians, and

Jesus' warning regarding the hypocrisy of public religion.

Nursery care will be available for young children.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather for music

and singing in preparation for their December 10 presentation.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - And So We Are!

Text - 1 John 3:1-3

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Greetings to all!

Today, November 1, is All Saints' Day, an occasion to celebrate the saints,

both famous and obscure.  Consider this theological reflection about the

saints as offered by the late Anglican theologian, John Macquarrie…

In remembering and honoring its saints by yearly commemoration or in

other ways, the Church is not showing a sentimental nostalgia for its

past.  Rather, this is a real communion of saints … In the communion of

saints, the Church accepts its heritage and confesses its identity; but

paradoxically this very heritage is the self-giving love of the martyrs and

confessors - a love which they in turn learned from Christ.  Thus in

accepting this heritage the Church ipso facto commits itself to a future

in which it must lose itself in order to transcend itself and become the

kingdom of God.

(from Principles of Christian Theology)

Calvin Greenup, a member of Walnut Hill Church, departed this life

on October 31, 2017.  Service arrangements are pending with Milward

Funeral Directors.

Fire-Ring Dedication - A dedication of the recently completed "fire-ring" 

on the Walnut Hill grounds will be held on Saturday, November 4, 5pm

(ceremony to begin at 5:30pm).  All are welcome!  Tents will be set up

in case of inclement weather.  Dress for the outdoors and bring a lawn

chair for your use.  Hot cider/chocolate will be served. 

The lectionary texts for November 5, the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost…

Joshua 3:7-17

Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37

1 Thessalonians 2:9-13

Matthew 23:1-12

Walking Through Scripture conversation continues this Sun, Nov 5,

10am in Trinity Hall. Join us as we discuss the texts above, sharing our

questions, comments and insights.  Use reply email if you would like to

receive a weekly introduction/commentary regarding the Sunday lessons.

Children's Choir - Children through elementary age are invited to gather

at 10am on Sunday mornings for music and singing in anticipation of their

Christmas presentation on Dec 10.  

Thanksgiving Stuffing/Dressing - Once again we have been asked to

provide stuffing/dressing for the Nathaniel Mission Community Thanksgiving

Dinner.  You can "sponsor" a pan for $20.  Make your check payable to

Walnut Hill Church (memo "stuffing").

The Annual Meeting of the congregation of Walnut Hill Church will be on 

Sunday, November 19, immediately after morning worship. As usual, the 

meeting business will include election of Vestry members, presentation of 

the annual budget, and action on the Pastor's terms of call.  This year's 

meeting will also include consideration of a revised Constitution and By-laws, 

which you may view in advance at the following link: Revised By-Laws.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, October 29, at Walnut Hill Church…

REFORMATION SUNDAY

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Looking Over

This week's walk through scripture takes us past the

death of Moses and a Psalm in his honor, Paul's

recollection of his ministry among the Thessalonians,

and Jesus' response to a question about the greatest

commandment.  Come and share your comments and

questions.

Nursery care will be available for young children.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather

for music and singing in preparation for their Christmas

season presentation on December 10.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Be Re-Formed!

Text - Romans 1:16-17; 3:24-25; 12:2

Preaching - The Rev. Dr. James Stillwell

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Greetings to all!

Tuesday, Oct 31, is the 500th anniversary of the day on which Martin Luther 

posted his "95 Theses" on the door of All Saints Church in Wittenberg (Ger), 

the traditional beginning of the Protestant Reformation.  In honor of this 

occasion, consider these thoughts from Martin Luther regarding the Christian 

life…

From faith flow forth love and joy in the Lord, and from love a joyful, willing and 

free mind that serves one's neighbor willingly and takes no account of gratitude 

or ingratitude, of praise or blame, of gain or loss.  For a man does not serve that 

he may put men under obligations, he does not distinguish between friends and 

enemies, nor does he anticipate their thankfulness or unthankfulness; but most 

freely and most willingly he spends himself and all that he has, whether he waste 

all on the thankless or whether he gain a reward.  For as his Father does, 

distributing all things to all men richly and freely, causing His sun to rise upon the 

good and upon the evil, so also the son does all things and suffers all things with 

that freely bestowing joy which is his delight when through Christ he sees it in 

God, the dispenser of such great benefits.

(from A Treatise on Christian Liberty)

The lectionary texts for October 29, the 21st Sunday after Pentecost…

Deuteronomy 34:1:12

Psalm 90

1 Thessalonians 2:1-8

Matthew 22:34-46

Walking Through Scripture conversation continues this Sunday, 10am, in 

Trinity Hall.  This week's walk includes the death of Moses, a psalm ascribed

to Moses reflecting on a long life, an apostle's recollection of his work with a 

congregation, and Jesus' answer to a question about the most important 

commandment (see texts above).  Come and join the conversation.

Children's Choir - Children through elementary age are invited to gather

at 10am on Sunday mornings for music and singing in anticipation of their

Christmas presentation on Dec 10.  

Thanksgiving Stuffing/Dressing - Once again we have been asked to

provide stuffing/dressing for the Nathaniel Mission Community Thanksgiving

Dinner.  You can "sponsor" a pan for $20.  Make your check payable to

Walnut Hill Church (memo "stuffing").

The Annual Meeting of the congregation of Walnut Hill Church will be held 

on Sunday, November 19, immediately after morning worship.  As usual, the 

meeting business will include election of Vestry members, presentation of the 

annual budget, and action on the Pastor's terms of call.  This year's meeting 

will also include consideration of a revised Constitution and By-laws, which 

you may view in advance at the following link: Revised By-Laws.

Best Gifts - Looking for an alternative gift this holiday season?  Consider 

adding a "best gift" to your Christmas shopping list.  "Best gifts" via Church 

World Service provide a way of sharing Christmas joy with persons who might

not ordinarily be on our gift list. Visit www.cwsbestgift.org for more information.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, October 22, at Walnut Hill Church…

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Grace and Peace

This week's walk through scripture takes us by God's

self-revelation to Moses, Paul's greeting to the church

at Thessalonica, and Jesus' response to a question

about taxes.  Join us as we share our comments,

insights and questions.

Nursery care available for young children.

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather

for music and singing in anticipation of their Christmas

season presentation on December 10.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Gotcha!

Text - Matthew 22:15-22

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Boone Creek Safari, afternoon, Vaughan Cabin

Children/Youth and their families are invited to gather

at the Vaughan cabin for an afternoon of hiking,

pumpkin carving, and a cookout.  Use reply email to

rsvp.  (Creek walk participants might want to bring

an extra pair of socks/shoes.)

*****

California Wildfires - Persons attending Walnut Hill

this Sunday will have opportunity to contribute in

support of relief efforts for those affected by recent

wildfires.  Look for collection baskets in the Sanctuary

foyer.   Cash and checks payable to Walnut Hill

Church (memo "wildfires") are welcome.  Contributions

will be sent to the area via Episcopal Relief & Development.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Greetings to all!

At a recent work session, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council 

voted unanimously to "sign" the Charter for Compassion, becoming the 

401st city worldwide to do so.  Like any resolution, so too this one will 

need to be followed by appropriate actions. Nonetheless, there is value 

in going on record as a signatory city. An excerpt from the Charter follows:

The principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and

spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be

treated ourselves…We therefore call upon all men and women to restore

compassion to the centre of morality and religion, to return to the ancient

principle that any interpretation of scripture that breeds violence, hatred

or disdain is illegitimate, to ensure that youth are given accurate and

respectful information about other traditions, religions and cultures, to

encourage a positive appreciation of cultural and religious diversity, to

cultivate an informed empathy with the suffering of all human beings,

even those regarded as enemies.

(Visit www.charterforcompassion.org for more information.)

The lectionary texts for October 22, the 20th Sunday after Pentecost…

Exodus 33:12-23

Psalm 99

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Matthew 22:15-22

Walking Through Scripture conversation continues on Sun, Oct 22,

10am, in Trinity Hall. This week's "walk" includes God's self revelation

to Moses, an introduction to the church at Thessalonica, and Jesus'

response to a question about paying taxes (see texts above).  Join 

us!

Boone Creek Safari - The annual Boone Creek Safari is this Sun,

Oct 22, after worship, at the Vaughan cabin.  This annual event is

for children/youth and their families.  Use reply email for more info 

and/or to rsvp. (Those taking the creek hike might want to bring an

extra pair of socks/shoes!)

California Wildfires - We are all aware of the destruction and trauma

caused by recent wildfires in California.  Persons attending Walnut

Hill this Sun, Oct 22, will have opportunity to support relief efforts

to affected communities and individuals.  Our support will be sent

via one of our ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development.

Visit "California fires" for information regarding the ERD response.

Host Opportunities - Opportunities are available to host our after

worship gathering for several Sundays upcoming including Oct 29, 

Nov 19, and Nov 26.  Check out the online sign up or the traditional 

sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer to volunteer.  Thanks to all our 

Sunday hosts!

The Annual Assembly of the Kentucky Council of Churches will be

held Oct 19 - 20 in Jeffersontown, KY.  This year's Assembly theme

is "Unpacking Power and Privilege."  Mike Ward will be attending as

a delegate from Transylvania Presbytery.  Visit KCC Assembly for

more information.

In the Community:  2nd Presbyterian Church is hosting a "Ladies

Day Out" luncheon and program on Sat, Nov 18, 11am - 1pm, at the

Lexington Country Club to benefit Buckhorn Children and Family Services . 

The program includes a silent auction, lunch and "mimosas." Cost is 

$25/person.  Email sue.mcintosh@buckhorn.org for more information 

and/or to rsvp.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, October 15, at Walnut Hill Church…

Walking Through Scripture, 10am, Trinity Hall

Many are called…Few are chosen

We will explore this week's scripture readings including

Jesus' parable of "The Wedding Banquet" .

Nursery care available for young children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Think About These Things

Text -  Philippians 4:1-9

Nursery Care and Faith Development for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

Supporting Our Scouts - Look for a scout "popcorn

stand" after worship and consider purchasing an item

for your enjoyment and in support of scouting.