Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Greetings to all!

"News" of the sort that came out of Las Vegas this week can sometimes 
feel overwhelming.  In The Book of Joy, the Dalai Lama counsels us to
remember that such news is actually the exception rather than the rule of
human experience…

When bad things happen they become news, and it is easy to feel like
our basic human nature is to kill or to rape or to be corrupt.  Then we can
feel that there is not much hope for our future. All these things happen,
but they are unusual, which is why they become news.  [For example],
there are millions and millions of children who are loved by their parents
every day.  Then in school their teachers care for them.  Okay, maybe
there are some bad teachers, but most of them are really kind and caring.
Then in the hospital, every day millions of people receive immense caring.
But this is so common that none of it becomes news.  We take it for
granted.  When we look at the news, we must keep this more holistic
view. Yes, this or that terrible thing has happened.  No doubt, there are
very negative things, but at the same time there are many more positive
things happening in our world.  We must have a sense of proportion and
a wider perspective.  Then we will not feel despair when we see these
sad things.

The scripture lessons for October 8, the 17th Sunday after Pentecost…
Exodus 20:1-20
Psalm 19
Philippians 3:4-14
Matthew 21:33-46

Walking Through Scripture - Join us this Sun, Oct 8, 10am, in Trinity Hall 
as we discuss the sights in this week's scripture texts (see above) including 
the Ten Commandments, Paul's thoughts on what is important (or not) in life, 
and a rather troubling parable of Jesus.

Host Opportunities - Check the online sign up sheet for opportunities to
host our after worship gathering on a Sunday this fall.  Thanks to all our
Sunday hosts.

Vestry Nominees - The Vestry is seeking suggestions of persons to
serve on the Vestry, Class of 2020.  This year we are particularly looking
for two female Vestry nominees.  Please give your Vestry suggestions
to Senior Warden Barbara Bohmer.

Thanks to the Rev. Nancy Jo Kemper who was our guest for Ecumenical
Sunday.  Walnut Hill is sending a contribution ($1,000) to the Kentucky
Council of Churches in honor of Ecumenical Sunday and in support of the 
KCC's ministry.  Visit KCC Vision for a brief video regarding the KCC's
ecumenical ministry.

The Kentucky Council of Churches Annual Assembly will be held on
October 19 - 20 in Louisville.  This year's Assembly theme is "Unpacking
Power and Privilege."  Visit KCC Assembly for program and registration
information.

Kroger Community Rewards - Walnut Hill has received a contribution
in the amount of $314 from the Kroger Company, proceeds of the last
quarter's participation in the Kroger Community Rewards program by 30 
Walnut Hill households.  Thanks to all!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

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