Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Greetings to all!

The events in Charlottesville are as disappointing as they are tragic, to be 
reminded how far we still are from accepting persons of different races,
nationalities, religions, etc, and how easily we can descend into hatred and 
violence.  It is important for persons of faith and good will to respond, rather 
than simply react, to such events.  With that in mind, let us…
…pray for all those involved and for ourselves that minds might be opened 
and hearts softened toward one another.
…reject ideologies that dehumanize others into objects to be despised or
worse.
…reach out with compassion to those who feel threatened because of their 
race, religion, nationality, or opinion.
…offer our time, talents and energy to build bridges of understanding and 
respect between ourselves and others.
The events in Charlottesville were not the first to reveal how far we have
yet to go as a nation and as a human race, and regrettably they will likely 
not be the last, but may we take from them such lessons as we can and 
use those lessons for our own and others'  good.

The scripture lesson for Sunday, August 20…
Luke 23:44-49

Sunday Conversations continue this Sun, Aug 20, 10am, in Trinity Hall.  
This Sunday we will talk together about how we might best use the 10am 
conversation hour during the fall, perhaps topical conversation, Bible study, 
spiritual exploration … to name a few possibilities  We would like to hear your 
ideas, so please join us.  If you can't be with us but have an idea to share, 
feel free to send it by reply email.

ACE Partnership - For a number of years Walnut Hill Church has enjoyed 
a partnership with the Athens Chilesburg Elementary School , particularly
with the school's Family Resource Center.  A key element of that partnership
has been our support of the 5th Grade Class Trip to Washington, DC.  This
Sunday, August 20, Ms. Peggy Henderson (Principal) and Ms. Sarah Yates
(FRC Director) will be visiting Walnut Hill.  We look forward to welcoming
them.

Hope Center - During the summer months we are collecting travel size
toiletry items (toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc) for our neighbors 
at the Hope Center .  Look for the collection box in the Sanctuary foyer.

Fall Hospitality - We have enjoyed a wonderful season of hospitality over
these recent summer Sundays.  As you start to look at your fall schedule,
it might also be a good time to check out the refreshment sign-up sheet and
volunteer for a Sunday to host our after worship gathering at Walnut Hill.
Thanks to all our Sunday hosts!

Kroger Community Rewards - Unlike past years, participants in the
Community Rewards program do not need to renew their registration during
the month of August.  Simply continue using your Kroger card, and Walnut
Hill will benefit from your regular purchases.  If you are not currently enrolled
and would like to do so, visit www.kroger.com or call 1-800-KROGERS, opt 3.
Walnut Hill's organization number is 46525.  Thirty households currently
participate in the Community Rewards program supporting Walnut Hill, and
their participation generated approximately $1,200 for Walnut Hill during the 
last program year.  Thanks to all!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward


 

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