Greetings to all!
This past Sunday began the second week of our EOS season focusing on the
encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus (John 3), in the midst of which Jesus
describes the Spirit of God like a breeze (sometimes perhaps a strong wind) that
we can feel but cannot discern where it begins or ends, and which certainly cannot
be grasped and held.
We are often inclined to think of God as a list of attributes or a "being" who acts in
predictable, even mechanical, ways. But perhaps, as Jesus suggests, God is more
like the breeze we sometimes feel blowing around us, like the air we breathe. Often
the breeze refreshes us. Sometimes the wind frightens us. Sometimes we long for
relief from the dead calm. In all conditions we live (physically and spiritually) by
breathing in the breath of God's Spirit. It is a mystery. Who could blame Nicodemus
for being a bit confused?
Exploring Our Spirituality (EOS) Week 2 continues this Thursday, Mar 16, 7pm,
at Walnut Hill as we gather to pray with scripture. After having read, studied and
proclaimed the story of Jesus and Nicodemus, we will gather to pray with the words
and images of that story. Join us for this informal worship gathering.
The scripture lesson for Sunday, March 19, the 3rd Sunday in Lent, and the
beginning of the third week of EOS.
EOS small groups continue to meet on Sunday mornings, 10am, at Walnut
Hill and Monday Evenings, 6:30pm, at the Hilliard residence. Small group
participation provides opportunity to share with others around the EOS scriptures
as well as our faith journeys. Use reply email to inquire about participating in
an EOS small group.
Personal study and reflection is an important part of the EOS experience. Use
the online EOS Booklet or pick up a printed copy at Walnut Hill for your personal
use.
Children's Choir - Children (through elementary age) are invited to gather for
music and singing this Sun, Mar 19, 10am, in Trinity Hall. The children are
working on music to be presented as part of our Palm Sunday worship on Apr 9.
After Church Refreshments - Check out the new and improved after church
refreshments online sign up sheet . It's an easy way to volunteer to host our
after worship gathering. Contact the church office if you have any questions
about how to sign up. Thanks to all our after worship hosts!
Mission Experience 2017 - Join us on Sunday, March 26, immediately after
worship, as we begin planning for our upcoming mission weekend (June 9 - 11).
Jesus and Justice: Christian Responses to Crime and Punishment is the
title of a program sponsored by the Kentucky Council of Churches to be held on
Tuesday, March 21, 6:30pm at Quinn Chapel AME Church (744 Charles Ave,
Lexington). Specific topics will include the phenomenon of mass incarceration
as well as the problematic practice of treating drug addiction as a criminal matter.
In the Community: The following are some opportunities to reach out to others
in our neighborhood and beyond…
*"Luggage for Foster Kids" - The Fayette County Extension Homemakers
is collecting luggage, backpacks, duffle bags, etc for adoptive/foster children and
youth. Contact the Fayette County Extension Office (859-257-5582) for more
information.
*Operation S.E.N.D. - Military Missions, a public non-profit organization, is
collecting gift, snack and personal items for military personnel. Visit their website
www.military-missions.org for more information.
*The Kentucky Wildlife Center is hosting the 2nd Annual Baby Shower
for Wildlife on Sunday, March 26. Email info@kywildlife.org for more information.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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