Greetings to all!
The recent, and current, fires in California are amazing to behold and
horrific in their destruction. Whatever they might say to us (and we do
well to listen) in regard to climate change, urban development, and forest
management, right now the focus must be on support of the communities
and individuals in their path and those persons working to mitigate loss of
life and property. Our thoughts and prayers are with them:
God of Mercy and Compassion: We are humbled by the power of nature,
so forcefully on display in California. Be present with those who have lost
loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and communities.Strengthen those who
work to protect people and property, shelter those who have fled their homes,
and help households and communities rebuild. May we be generous in our
response to neighbors in need, and may we listen to what the Earth might
be saying to us in these days. Amen.
Responding to California Fires: Persons attending Walnut Hill this Sun,
Nov 18, will have opportunity to offer special gifts in response to the
California wildfires. Watch the Friday update for more details.
The lectionary texts for Nov 18, the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time…
Sunday Conversations continue this Sun, Nov 18, 10am in Trinity Hall
as we consider Gratitude as Spiritual Practice.
Climate Change follow-up - Last week's Sunday Conversation focused
on climate change, particularly what people of faith might do in response.
With that in mind, we would like to invite interested persons to participate
in a Walnut Hill exploratory/working group to research possible responses
for Walnut Hill folks (together and individually). Let us know by reply email
if you would like to participate. You might want to review this Ted Talk video
about the climate change tipping point, which the conversation group viewed
last Sunday.
Walking Through Scripture is a schedule of readings from the Sunday
lectionary (see above) for individual use. Participants are invited to walk
through scripture by taking a few minutes each week to read and reflect
on the Sunday lessons, enabling the walker to be more prepared for
Sunday worship and (over the course of three years) to read many, if not
most, of the most important passages of scripture. Pick up a walking guide
in the Sanctuary foyer or request one by reply email. Walkers may also
subscribe to Mike's weekly commentary on the Sunday lessons. Use reply
email to subscribe.
Sunday Hospitality - A few open Sundays (Nov 25, Dec 9, and Dec 23)
remain available as hosting opportunities during 2018. Use reply email,
or visit the online sign up sheet to volunteer. Thanks to all our Sunday
hosts!
The Advent Season - One special tradition of the Advent season is the
lighting of the Advent wreath during morning worship. Individuals and
families are welcome and needed to lead this wonderful tradition. Let us
know by reply email if you would like to "light the Advent candles" this
season (Dec 2, 9, 16, or 23).
The Christmas Season Potluck is coming on Sun, Dec 2, immediately
after morning worship. Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us
for this delicious start to the Advent/Christmas season.
The Annual Congregational Meeting was held this past Sun, Nov 11.
If you missed it, let us know by reply email, and we will be happy to send
you a copy (electronically of by post) of the meeting packet including the
proposed 2019 budget as well as Vestry persons and officers elected for
2019.
The State of the Church - If you missed last Sunday, Walnut Hill Church
Members and Friends are invited to visit the Walnut Hill website and listen
to Mike Ward's State of the Church report outlining several priorities for the
year(s) ahead.
Peace to all.
Mike Ward
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