Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Greetings to all!

The Rt. Rev. Mark Van Koevering, Bishop Provisional of the Episcopal

Diocese of Lexington, will be visiting Walnut Hill this Sunday, February 3.

"Bishop Mark's" visit is an affirmation of Walnut Hill Church's identity as an

"ecumenical" congregation, seeking shared ground between persons who

follow the way of Christ.  Being ecumenical does not mean that we have

no differences, sometimes significant ones, between us. Nonetheless we

understand that our common need and experience of God's love, as well 

as our calling to share God's love, is greater than those differences. Walnut 

Hill is honored to be included among the parishes visited by Bishop Mark,

and we look forward to his presence with us.

The lectionary texts for February 3, the 4th Sunday after Epiphany…

Jeremiah 1:4-10

Psalm 71:1-6

1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Luke 4:21-30

Sunday Conversations this Sun, Feb 3, 10am, will feature Bishop Mark

Van Koevering.  Join us as we visit informally with Bishop Mark about

matters of faith, life, church and world.  (Nursery care will be available.)

"SOUP"ER BOWL SUNDAY is this Sunday, Feb 3, after morning worship.  

Come prepared to enjoy a delicious bowl of soup and make a donation to 

support hunger relief in central Kentucky and beyond. Soup chef volunteers 

are still welcome. Use reply email to volunteer a pot of soup.  For more

information, visit Souper Bowl of Caring .

Prayer in Action Days, a program of the Kentucky Council of Churches,

resume on Tue, Feb 5, 9:30am, in the Capitol Annex Building (Rm#171).

Prayer in Action Days combine information, prayer and advocacy regarding

issues before the Kentucky General Assembly.  This Tuesday's Prayer in 

Action Day will focus on Tax Reform.  Visit Prayer in Action Days for more

information.

News Please! The next edition of the Walnut Hill Newsletter (print edition) 

will soon be going to press.  You are invited to submit news for publication.  

Use reply email to submit a news item. The submission deadline is Sunday, 

February 3.

2018 Contribution Statements will be in the mail by the end of the week 

providing information regarding your 2018 giving to Walnut Hill Church. Our 

thanks to the Livesay Group for their careful work in maintaining our giving 

records.  Please contact the church office if you have any questions regarding 

your 2018 Contribution Statement.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

 

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, January 27, at Walnut Hill Church…

Being Disciples, 10am, Trinity Hall

Faith, Hope and Love

We resume our conversation regarding discipleship 

exploring the role of faith, hope, and love in the Christian 

life. (chapter 2 in the book, Being Disciples)

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - The Sunday Sermon

Text - Nehemiah 8:1-10

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for Children and Youth

"Celebrating God's Law" (Nehemiah 8) will be the focus

for the younger children and youth class, reminding us

that God gives us instruction (law) so that we might live

in justice and peace with God and with each other.

"Exploring Our Gifts" (1 Cor 12) will be the focus for the 

older elementary children, including some practice with 

hand chimes.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Ecumenical Worship, 7pm, Pax Christi Catholic Church

Walnut Hill members and friends are invited to gather with

fellow Christians from neighboring congregations for a

celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, at

7pm, at Pax Christi Catholic Church (corner of Man-O-War

Blvd and Victoria Way).

*****

In the case of inclement weather any Sunday an email

will be sent by 9am with information regarding the status of

church activities for the day.  A voice message with the same

information will also be available by 9am via the church

phone (859-263-5304).

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Greetings to all!

We are currently in the middle of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity,

an annual observance exploring the unity of the Church across political, 

ethnic, cultural, and theological boundaries.  Each year a different part

of the church is invited to select a theme for reflection by the church

around the world.  This year's theme, "Justice and Only Justice You Shall

Pursue" (Deuteronomy 16:18-20) was selected by Christians in Indonesia.

Be in prayer this week that the Church might find unity in the Spirit of

Christ and be united in the pursuit of justice around the world.  For more

information regarding this observance, visit Week of Prayer .

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity - Walnut Hill members and friends

are invited to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity  with sisters 

and brothers from our neighboring congregations this Sun, Jan 27, 7pm, 

at Pax Christi Catholic Church (corner of Man-O-War & Victoria Way).

The lectionary texts for January 27, the Third Sunday after Epiphany…

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10

Psalm 19

1 Corinthians 12:12-31

Luke 4:14-21

Being Disciples, an exploration of the experience of following Christ,

continues this Sun, Jan 27, 10am, as we discuss "Faith, Hope, and

Love," and their relationship to intellect, memory, and will.  (chapter two 

in Rowan Williams' book, Being Disciples)

"Soup"er Bowl Sunday is coming on Sun, Feb 3, after morning worship.

Super Bowl Sunday provides an opportunity to enjoy some delicious

soup and make a donation to support hunger relief in central Kentucky

and beyond.  In anticipation of the day, Walnut Hill "soup chefs" are

invited to bring a pot of their favorite soup to share.  Use reply email

or contact Lauren Fouts to volunteer a pot of soup.

The Rt. Rev. Mark Van Koevering, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of

Lexington, will visit Walnut Hill Church on Sun, Feb 3. "Bishop Mark"

will join us for informal conversation at 10am and preach at our 11am

service.  For more information regarding Bishop Van Koevering, visit

the www.diolex.org . You might want to visit the Diocese Facebook page

to see Bishop Mark's post (Jan 20) regarding the events in Washington

involving Kentucky high school students.

Special thanks to all those who helped make it possible for us to

gather for worship on a wintry morning last Sunday including Bernie

Hartung and Associates for an emergency furnace repair on Saturday,

Down to Earth Landscaping for clearing the driveway and sidewalks

early Sunday morning, and the team of Horn, Hensley, Hanna, Snow,

and Wharton, for providing wonderful after worship refreshments.  The

weather was frightful, but the fellowship was delightful!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday, January 20

Dear Friends,

It's wintry out there, but the church drive and side walks have been cleared, so Walnut Hill will be open this morning (Sun, Jan 20) for anyone who wishes to venture out.  Our gathering will be very informal.  

Please use caution if you decide to venture out.  If in doubt, stay home, and we will look forward to seeing you next Sunday.

Peace,

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, January 20, at Walnut Hill Church…

Being Disciples, 10am, Trinity Hall

Faith, Hope and Love

We continue our conversations arising from Rowan Williams' 

book, Being Disciples, with a focus on "Faith, Hope and Love" 

(chapter 2).  How do these core virtues of the Christian life 

become part of our daily experience?

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - From Scarcity to Abundance

Text - John 2:1-11

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children and youth.

"Exploring Our Gifts" (1 Cor 12) will be the focus for

the older elementary children, including some practice

with hand chimes.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

In the case of inclement weather on any Sunday morning, 

an email will be sent by 9am providing the status of church 

activities for the day.  A voice message with same information 

will also be available by 9am.  

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Greetings to all!

This coming Monday, January 21, is the Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday, an 

annual occasion to remember the ideals espoused by Dr. King, as well as to 

assess the health of our nation in regard to matters of justice, mercy and 

compassion.  One of Dr. King's most compelling images was  that of "The 

Beloved Community," a way of being together characterized by mutual respect 

and compassion, even toward those who opposed, sometimes violently, his 

efforts to end segregation.  As he said in his sermon, "Loving Your Enemies," …

With every ounce of our energy we must continue to rid this nation of the

incubus of segregation. But we shall not in the process relinquish our privilege 

and our obligation to love.  While abhorring segregation, we shall love the 

segregationist.  This is the only way to create the beloved community.

Visit MLK Celebration for a schedule of downtown Lexington events. 

In Memory:  Marie Masters, a member of Walnut Hill Church, departed this 

life on Thursday, January 10.  Services and burial are scheduled for Jan 16 

in Richmond, Kentucky.  For the full obituary, visit Marie Masters.

The lectionary texts for January 20, the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany…

Isaiah 62:1-5

Psalm 36:5-10

1 Corinthians 12:1-11

John 2:1-11

Being Disciples, an exploration of discipleship using the book by Rowan

Williams, continues this Sunday, 10am, as we explore "Faith, Hope and

Love" (chapter 2).  Complimentary copies of the book are available at the

church, or may be purchased through various booksellers.

A Host is needed for our refreshments this Sun, Jan 20.  Please use reply 

email to volunteer for this Sunday or visit the online sign up to volunteer for 

a Sunday later in the winter.  Thanks to all our hosts!

Tu-B'Shevat an Environmental Call to Action is the title of a program

at Ohavay Zion Synagogue on Jan 16, 7pm - 9pm, featuring a presentation

by Kentucky Interfaith Power and Light intended to equip faith communities 

in caring for God's creation. In addition to the KIPL presentation, there will be 

music and refreshments. 

2018 CROP WALK -  Take a look at these photos from the September, 2018,

CROP WALK ( CROP WALK Photos ), including a photo of the Walnut Hill

Team!  The Walnut Hill team raised over $700 that day to help alleviate

hunger in central Kentucky and beyond.  Approximately $24,000 was raised

at the event.

In the case of inclement weather on a Sunday morning an email will be sent

by 9am updating the status of church activities that day.  A voice message with

that same information will be available via the church phone (859-263-5304)

by 9am on Sunday morning as well.

Thanks to the Walnut Hill community for your wonderful encouragement and

support of the Ward family.  We are grateful.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, January 13, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD

Being Disciples, 10am, Trinity Hall

Being Disciples

We begin a conversation series focusing on the book,

Being Disciples, by Rowan Williams.  This Sunday's

conversation explores the nature of discipleship as a

way of being rather than a list of occasional activities.

Complimentary copies of the book are available while

they last or can be purchased through various book

sellers.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Jesus' Baptism: Problem or Gift?

Text - Luke 3:15-22

The Sacrament of Baptism

Reaffirmation of Baptism

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children and youth. "The 

Baptism of the Lord" will be the focus for the day. Youth 

will be invited to remain in worship to witness the 

Sacrament and participate in the Baptism Reaffirmation.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship

*****

In case of inclement weather any Sunday morning an 

email will be sent by 9am providing information regarding

church activities for the day.  A voice message will also be 

available by 9am via the church phone (859-263-5304).

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Greetings to all!

This Sunday, January 13, is the Baptism of the Lord, the second of three

stories traditionally associated with Epiphany.  Jesus hits the public stage

with a splash as he presents himself to John for baptism, which at that

time was a rite signifying personal (and community) repentance and

renewal.  The church has long wondered what was on Jesus' mind when

he waded into the Jordan River.  There is, of course, no way of knowing

what Jesus was thinking.  Our recollection of the story provides an

opportunity for us to consider and recommit ourselves to the personal and 

public path of discipleship, and perhaps to hear for ourselves the words 

heard by Jesus, "You are my beloved daughter/son.  In you I am well

pleased."

The lectionary texts for Jan 13, The Sunday of the Baptism of the Lord…

Isaiah 43:1-7

Psalm 29

Acts 8:14-17

Luke 3:15 - 22

Being Disciples is the title of a conversation series beginning Sunday,

January 13, 10am. This series is inspired by the book, Being Disciples, 

by Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury.  Each Sunday's

conversation will focus on a chapter of the book. This Sunday's 

conversation focuses on the first chapter, "Being Disciples," offering new

insights on what being a disciple of Jesus means for today. Several 

complimentary copies of the book are available at the church.  Copies 

may also be purchased through numerous book sellers.

Sunday Hosts - Opportunities to host our after worship gathering are

available via the online sign up sheet .  Visit the sign up sheet, or check

out the traditional sign up sheet in the Sanctuary/Trinity Hall, and host

a Sunday soon.  Thanks to all our hosts!

Sandwich Ministry - A new sign up sheet for early 2019 has been 

posted in the Sanctuary for persons to participate as Walnut Hill Church

Sandwich Ministers at the Catholic Action Center.  Walnut Hill Church

Sandwich Ministers provide sandwiches for overnight guests at the CAC 

on the 4th Sunday of each month. This is a great ministry opportunity 

for individuals and families.  Check out the sign up sheet or use reply

email for more information.

Cemetery/Church Grounds Project - Work is currently in process on 

the next phase of the cemetery/church grounds project, particularly

a new entrance into the cemetery that will be both decorative and

functional. The current work is one piece of the implementation of the

long term plan for the cemetery and church grounds.  Visit Trinity Hall

to see the concept drawings for the entire project. Thanks to all those 

who have supported this work with their special gifts.

In the case of inclement weather on any winter Sunday morning, an

email will be sent by 9am reporting the status of church activities on

that day.  Also, a voice update will be available on the church phone

(859-263-5304) by 9am.  As always, use your discretion when deciding

whether or not to venture out on a snowy/icy Sunday.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward  

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, January 6, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Mindfulness for the New Year

We will start off the new year with a conversation inviting us 

to explore the spiritual practice of mindfulness meditation, 

which finds its roots in Buddhist practice. Mindfulness meditation 

can be fruitful for persons of any (or no) religious tradition.   

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Ultima Thule & The Star of Bethlehem

Text - Matthew 2:1-12

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children.  This week's focus

will be on Epiphany and the Visit of the Magi (MT 2:1-12).

Youth will be invited to remain in worship this Sunday to 

share in the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

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

Trinity Hall.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Greetings to all!

This Sunday, January 6, is the Feast of Epiphany, which has been observed

since the 4th century (or earlier).  Epiphany means "manifestation," marking

the first public manifestations of the mighty act of God found in the birth, life,

death, and resurrection of Jesus.  What began in hiddenness at Bethlehem,

is now made known to the world through the visit of the Magi (Matt 2), the 

baptism of Jesus (Mark 1 etc), and the changing of water into wine (John 2).

Epiphany invites us to behold the wonder of God's love manifest in the world 

and to do our part in making the divine love manifest to others.  May we do so 

this Epiphany and beyond.

In Memory: Dr. V. Gayle Alexander, a Member of Walnut Hill Church, departed

this life on December 30, 2018.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gayle's

family.  Visit Gayle Alexander for the complete obituary.  

The lectionary texts for January 6, the Epiphany of the Lord…

Isaiah 60:1-6

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Ephesians 3:1-12

Matthew 2:1-12

Sunday Conversations continue this Sun, Jan 6, 10am, in Trinity Hall, with

a conversation focusing on spiritual practices for the New Year.  Start the

New Year off right with a renewed attention to your spiritual life and health.

A Host is needed for our after worship gathering this Sun, Jan 6.  Use reply

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

opportunities to host this Sunday or later in January - March.  Thanks to all

our Sunday hosts.

Being Disciples is the title of a conversation series beginning Sun, Jan 13.

This conversation series is inspired by the book, Being Disciples, by Rowan

Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, offering six reflections on what

it means to live as a "disciple" of Jesus Christ.  Several copies of Williams'

book are available at Walnut Hill, and it can also be purchased through

numerous booksellers.

Walking Through Scripture is a weekly practice of reading the Sunday

lectionary texts (see above) ahead of Sunday morning.  It is a simple practice

inviting "walkers" to engage the scriptures individually before we engage

them together on Sunday morning.  Use reply email for more information

and/or to subscribe to Mike Ward's weekly "walking guide."

Thanks to all those who helped to make the 2018 holiday season a festive

and joyful one at Walnut Hill Church!

Happy New Year!

Mike Ward