Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, June 9, 2019, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE DAY OF PENTECOST

Blessed Are…, 10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are the peacemakers…

We continue exploring the Beatitudes of Jesus (Matt 5:1-12), 

particularly the 7th beatitude, "Blessed are the peacemakers…"  

Our discussion will include consideration of the enneagram 

personality type (#9), "The Peacemaker." For another approach 

to this beatitude, you might view the video:  Peacemakers .

Nursery care available for young children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - A Universal Grammar of Religion

Text -Acts 2:1-21

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children and youth.

This Sunday: Lessons from Daniel

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

Help Wanted:  Seeking eight (8) volunteers to assemble

Church World Service hygiene kits, like those (1,500) recently

sent to the U.S. midwest.  All ages welcome, no experience

necessary, just 20 minutes or so after worship.  "Apply

at the door."

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, June 6, 2019

Greetings to all!

Tomorrow, June 6, is the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Europe,

certainly one of the most significant events in military, if not human, history.

As the number of living WW2 and D-Day veterans declines, we are on the 

cusp of these events transitioning from personal to historical memory, as no 

direct witnesses will be present among us, though for some years yet there 

will be the personal connection of those who knew persons who were there.  

Whether our memory of D-Day be personal or historical, may it inspire us to 

humbly acknowledge that aspect of human nature that made such an event 

necessary, to honor those who faced such horrific circumstances with courage, 

and to pray that such an event might never need to be repeated in the future. 

The lectionary texts for June 9, the Day of Pentecost…

Acts 2:1-21

Psalm 104:24-34, 35b

Romans 8:14-17

John 14:8-17

Blessed Are…an exploration of the Beatitudes of Jesus (Matthew 5:1-12),

continues this Sun, June 9, 10am, as we consider the beatitude, "Blessed

are the peacemakers…" Use reply email to request a participant's guide for

your personal reflection and/or preparation for Sunday's discussion.

Spring Storms  - Thanks to those who made special gifts in response to our

outreach to those affected by recent storms and flooding in the central U.S.

Thanks to your generosity, Walnut Hill be sending over $500 to the area via 

our ecumenical partner, Church World Service.  Also, this Sun, June 9, you

are invited to join a "mini assembly line" (8 persons) after worship as we

assemble CWS "hygiene kits" like the 1,500 kits that have been sent to the

midwest in recent weeks.

*Hope Center - As you travel this summer, remember that Walnut Hill is

collecting travel-size toiletry items (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc) for

guests at the Hope Center.  Look for the collection box in the Sanctuary

foyer.

The Walnut Hill Bike Ride is coming on Saturday, June 29.  There are

plenty of ways for you to support this event.  Use reply email to inquire.

Sunday Hospitality - Visit our online sign-up sheet to see opportunities to 

host our Sunday refreshments.  When you see a Sunday that works for you, 

follow the simple instructions to sign-up.  You may also use the traditional 

sign up sheets in the Sanctuary foyer and Trinity Hall. Thanks to all our hosts!

Sermon Recordings are available on the Walnut Hill Church website by

visiting the following link:  Sermons .

In the Community: "The Grand Night For Singing," featuring both U.K. and

community talent, will have performances June 7- 9 and June 14 - 16.  Visit

Grand Night for more information.  Walnut Hill's own Mary Diane Hanna is

a member of this year's cast.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

P.S. - You can find Walnut Hill Church…

…on the web at www.walnuthillchurchky.org

…on Facebook at Walnut Hill Church

…on Instagram at walnuthillchurchky

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, June 2, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Blessed Are…10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart…

We continue our exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12),

discussing the 6th beatitude, "Blessed are the pure in heart…"

You might want to view this brief video ( Pure in Heart ) in

anticipation of Sunday's conversation.

Nursery care available for young children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Go To Jail!

Text -Acts 16:16-40

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for all children and youth.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

Nathaniel Mission Summer Camps - You are invited to bring 

craft supplies (e.g. pencils, crayons, glue, scissors, paper, etc), 

as well as children's books in good condition, to support the 

Nathaniel Mission's summer camp programs. Look for the 

collection box in the Sanctuary foyer.

*****

SPRING STORMS - The central section of the U.S. has been

battered by recent tornadoes and floods.  You may donate to

support relief efforts this Sunday or next at Walnut Hill, cash

and checks (payable to Walnut Hill, memo: Spring Storms).  

Walnut Hill contributions will be sent to the affected area via 

our partner Church World Service.  Visit Spring Storms for a 

CWS situation and response report.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Greetings to all!

Thursday, May 30, marks the Ascension of the Lord, forty days after Easter

according to the chronology of Acts 1:1-11 . The story of the ascension of 

the Lord is clearly one of theological affirmation rather than historical report,

which is not to lessen its credibility, but to remind us that the wonder of the 

story is not a case of anti-gravity but rather the triumph of something(one)

as powerless and fragile as Love.  Thomas Keating reflects…

The grace of the ascension enables us to perceive the irresistible power of

the Spirit transforming everything into Christ despite any and all appearances

to the contrary.  In the misery of the ghetto, the battlefield, the concentration

camp; in the family torn by dissension; in the loneliness of the orphanage,

old-age home, or hospital ward…the light of the ascension is burning with

irresistible power.  This is one of the great intuitions of faith.

(from Active Meditations for Contemplative Prayer)

The lectionary texts for June 2, the Seventh Sunday of Easter…

Acts 16:16-34

Psalm 97

Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21

John 17:20-26

Blessed Are…an exploration of the Beatitudes of Jesus (Matthew 5:1-12),

continues this Sun, June 2, 10am, with a consideration of the 6th beatitude, 

"Blessed are the pure in heart…", including commentary by Thomas Merton.  

Use reply email to request a copy of the participant guide for this Sunday's 

conversation.

Walnut Hill reaching out…

*Nathaniel Mission Summer Camp - You are invited to donate craft supplies

(paper, crayons, pencils, scissors, etc) for the Nathaniel Mission summer

camp program.  Look for the collection box in the foyer of the Sanctuary.

*U.S. Tornadoes/Flooding - You are invited to donate by cash/check

(payable to Walnut Hill Church, memo: Spring Storms) to support relief

and recovery for persons affected by recent storms and flooding.  Walnut Hill 

donations will be sent to the area via our partner, Church World Service.

*Hope Center - As you travel this summer, remember that Walnut Hill is

collecting travel-size toiletry items (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc) for

guests at the Hope Center.  Look for the collection box in the Sanctuary

foyer.

The Walnut Hill Bike Ride is coming on Saturday, June 29.  There are

plenty of ways for you to support this event.  Use reply email to inquire.

Sunday Hospitality - Visit our online sign-up sheet to see opportunities to 

host our Sunday refreshments.  When you see a Sunday that works for you, 

follow the simple instructions to sign-up.  You may also use the traditional 

sign up sheets in the Sanctuary foyer and Trinity Hall. Thanks to all our hosts.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

P.S. - You can find Walnut Hill Church…

…on the web at www.walnuthillchurchky.org

…on Facebook at Walnut Hill Church

…on Instagram at walnuthillchurchky

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, May 26, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Memorial Day Weekend

Blessed Are…, 10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are the merciful…

We continue our exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12)

as we consider the fifth beatitude, "Blessed are the merciful."

You might want to view this video ( Mercy ) in preparation

for Sunday's conversation.

Nursery care available for young children.

Confirmation Study, 10am, Trinity Hall

Youth meet to explore their relationship to God and Church.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Lydia

Text - Acts 16:9-15

Memorial Day Acknowledgment

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children and youth.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Sanctuary

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

Nathaniel Mission Summer Camps - You are invited to

bring craft supplies (e.g. pencils, crayons, glue, scissors,

paper, etc), as well as children's books in good condition, 

to support the Nathaniel Mission's summer camp programs.

Look for the collection box in the Sanctuary foyer.

*****

SPRING STORMS - The central section of the U.S. has been

battered by recent tornadoes and floods.  You may donate to

support relief efforts this Sunday or next at Walnut Hill, cash

and checks (payable to Walnut Hill, memo: Spring Storms).  

Walnut Hill contributions will be sent to the affected area via 

our partner Church World Service.  Visit Spring Storms for a 

CWS situation and response report.

*****

CATALPA IN BLOOM - The Catalpa tree in the midst of

the playground is in bloom, a spectacular display!  Perhaps 

some blooms will remain on Sunday.  Be sure to have a

look.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Greetings to all!

Memorial Day is upon us, the informal beginning of summer and, more

importantly, the day to remember those who have died in the service of

our country.  While not a "church holiday," it is nonetheless worthy of the

church's attention and its prayers…

Gracious God:

Your desire for the earth and its inhabitants is Peace,

but our experience has often included war,

which has cost us much in blood and treasure.

We pray for those men and women

who have given of themselves to the last measure

in the wars that have been part of our nation's history.

We honor their sacrifice and mourn with their survivors.

May their memory inspire us to work for the day

when nation shall not rise up against nation,

and neither shall they practice war any more.

Amen.

Anne Atchison, a member of Walnut Hill Church, departed this life on

May 20, 2019.  Arrangements for Anne include a service at Walnut Hill

Church on Friday, May 24, 11am.  Visit Milward Funeral Directors for more

details.

The lectionary texts for May 26, the Sixth Sunday of Easter…

Acts 16:9-15

Psalm 67

Revelation 21:10; 21:22-22:5

John 14:23-29

Blessed Are…an exploration of the Beatitudes of Jesus (Matt 5:1-12)

continues this Sunday, 10am, as we consider the 5th beatitude, "Blessed

are the merciful…"  Use reply email to request a study guide, which may

be used for individual reflection and/or to prepare for Sunday's

conversation. You might also want to check out this video (Mercy) as part

of your reflection/preparation.

Nathaniel Mission Summer Camp- We are currently gathering craft

supplies (pencils, crayons, paper, scissors, tape, etc) and children's books 

in support of the Nathaniel Mission's summer camp program.  Bring your 

donated items to Walnut Hill this Sunday or next. Cash/check donations

are also welcome.  Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church 

(memo: Nathaniel Mission).

The Ration Challenge: Church World Service is sponsoring "The Ration

Challenge," June 16 - 23, to raise awareness of the experience of

refugees around the world, as well as to raise funds to support those

ministering with and to refugees.  Visit The Ration Challenge for more

information.

Thanks to all those who made last Sunday's spring potluck a "delicious"

success including our "chicken runners," kitchen team, chefs and diners.

It was a festive occasion!

Peace to all!

Mike Ward

P.S. - You can find Walnut Hill Church…

…on the web at www.walnuthillchurchky.org

…on Facebook at Walnut Hill Church

…on Instagram at walnuthillchurchky

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church - SPRING POTLUCK

This Sunday, May 19, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

SPRING POTLUCK

Blessed Are…,10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…

We continue our exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12)

with conversation around the 4th beatitude, Blessed are 

those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…, including

commentary by Cynthia Bourgeault.

Confirmation Study, 10am, Trinity Hall

Youth gather to explore their relationship to God and the Church.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - And There Was No More Sea

Text - Revelation 21:1-6

Recognition of Graduates

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for children and youth…

"Loving Others as God Loves Us" (John 13:31-35)

SPRING POTLUCK, Noon, Trinity Hall

Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us for this

delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

*****

Nathaniel Mission Summer Camps - You are invited to

bring craft supplies (e.g. pencils, crayons, glue, scissors,

paper, etc) as well as children's books in good condition, 

to support the Nathaniel Mission's summer camp programs.

Look for the collection box in the Sanctuary foyer.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Greetings to all!

We are in the midst of several Sundays considering Jesus' Beatitudes

(Matt 5:1-12) during the 10am hour (see below). It is not too late to share 

in rediscovering, or discovering for the first time, these extraordinary 

teachings of Jesus. Cynthia Bourgeault, spiritual author/teacher, comments…

If you were raised Christian, you are probably familiar with the beatitudes.

They're one of the "top three" texts that you get to memorize in Sunday

school.  These eight short sayings lay out Jesus's core teaching in a

wonderfully concentrated and compelling format.  Curiously, of all his

teachings they are also the least commentated upon by the church

fathers and theologians - most likely…because they are clearly non-dual

teachings of the highest order, and most of the church still isn't there yet…

(as found in The Wisdom Jesus)

The lectionary texts for May 19, the Fifth Sunday of Easter…

Acts 11:1-18

Psalm 148

Revelation 21:1-6

John 13:31-35

Blessed Are…an exploration of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) of Jesus, 

continues this Sun, May 19, 10am, in Trinity Hall, as we consider the fourth

beatitude, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness…," 

including commentary by Cynthia Bourgeault. Use reply email to request a 

participant guide for your individual reflection and/or preparation for Sunday's 

conversation.

THE SPRING POTLUCK is coming on Sunday, May 19, immediately after

morning worship.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert, and join us for this

delicious Walnut Hill tradition. See and share the potluck Facebook and

Instagram posts.

Calling all Graduates - As is our recent tradition, we would like to recognize

Walnut Hill graduates, particularly high school graduates, on the day of our

Spring Potluck (May 19).  If you have a graduate in your family, come

prepared to "shout out" on that day.  If you have a high school graduate in

your household, please let us know in advance, so that we might celebrate

her/him appropriately.

Walking Through Scripture, a practice of weekly Bible reading, is ongoing

a we make our journey through the 3-year lectionary cycle.  Look for your 

next "walking guide" this Sunday in the Sanctuary foyer, or request one by 

reply email.  Now is the time to (re)subscribe for Mike's weekly reflections

on the Sunday lessons.  Use reply email to (re)subscribe.

The Nathaniel Mission will be offering day camp programs this summer

for children in the Cardinal Valley area.  You can help by donating craft

supplies such as pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, tape, paper, etc, as well 

as children's books in good condition. Look for a collection box in the foyer

of the Sanctuary.

The 8th Annual Walnut Hill Bike Ride is coming on Sat, June 29.  This

year's ride will benefit children in the Athens Chilesburg and Brenda Cowan

School districts.  Mark the date on your calendar, and watch for more

information regarding participation and volunteer opportunities.  Let us

know if your business might like be a "sponsor" for the event.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

P.S. - You can find Walnut Hill Church…

…on the web at www.walnuthillchurchky.org

…on Facebook at Walnut Hill Church

…on Instagram at walnuthillchurchky

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, May 12, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Mother's Day

Blessed Are…10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are the meek…

We continue our exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12)

with conversation regarding the saying "Blessed are the

meek…," including the comments of Pope Francis. What

does it mean to be "meek?"  What do the meek "inherit?"

Confirmation Study, 10am, Trinity Hall

Youth gather to explore their relationship to God and the Church.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - A Beautiful Person

Text - Acts 9:36-43

Mother's Day Prayers

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery care and classes for children and youth.

"The Lord Is My Shepherd…" (Psalm 23) - celebrating God's

gifts of life and grace.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Greetings to all!

In light of Mother's Day upcoming (May 12) and the occasion to celebrate

and give thanks for those women who have nurtured us in our living,

consider this adaptation of a poem by Maya Angelou as found in the book,

Woman Prayers.

I have so much I can teach her

And pull out of her.

I would say you might encounter defeats

But you must never be defeated.

I would teach her to love a lot.

Laugh a lot at the silliest things

And be very serious.

I would teach her to love life,

I could do that.

Another school shooting occurred yesterday.  This one in Denver.  Might

the frequency of such events not cause us to be fearful or uncaring.  Rather,

might our "mourning" for those affected lead us to become engaged in efforts

to reduce violence in our society.  A place to begin might be a 2016 statement

on "Gun Violence" published by the Kentucky Council of Churches.  To

access the statement, visit KCC Policy Statements and scroll down to the

"Gun Violence" tab. 

The lectionary texts for May 12, the Fourth Sunday of Easter…

Acts 9:36-43

Psalm 23

Revelation 7:9-17

John 10:22-30

Blessed Are…, an exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12) continues this 

Sunday, 10am, as we consider the 3rd beatitude, "Blessed are the meek…"

Use reply email to request to request a reflection guide, which may be used

for individual study and/or to prepare for our conversation.

THE SPRING POTLUCK is coming on Sunday, May 19, immediately after

morning worship.  Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert, and join us for this

delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

Calling all Graduates - As is our recent tradition, we would like recognize

Walnut Hill graduates, particularly high school graduates, on the day of our

Spring Potluck (May 19).  If you have a graduate in your family, come

prepared to "shout out" on that day.  If you have a high school graduate in

your household, please let us know in advance, so that we might celebrate

her/him appropriately.

Walking Through Scripture, a practice of weekly Bible reading, is ongoing

a we make our journey through the 3-year lectionary cycle.  Look for your 

next "walking guide" this Sunday in the Sanctuary foyer, or request one by 

reply email.

The 8th Annual Walnut Hill Bike Ride is coming on Sat, June 29.  This

year's ride will benefit children in the Athens Chilesburg and Brenda Cowan

School districts.  Mark the date on your calendar, and watch for more

information regarding participation and volunteer opportunities.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

P.S. - You can find Walnut Hill Church…

…on the web at www.walnuthillchurchky.org

…on Facebook at Walnut Hill Church

…on Instagram at walnuthillchurchky

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, May 5, at Walnut Hill Church….

THE THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

Blessed Are…, 10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are they that mourn…

Our exploration of the Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12) continues as we 

consider the second beatitude, "Blessed are they that mourn…," 

with particular attention to an interpretation by the late Clarence 

Jordan, a co-founder of Koinonia Farm.

Nursery care available for young children.

Confirmation Study, 10am, Trinity Hall

Youth gather to explore their relationship to God and the Church.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Tying Up Loose Ends

Text - John 21:1-24

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for Children and Youth.

The Conversion of Saul (Paul) - Acts 9:1-19

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, May 1, 2019

Greetings to all!

The first Thursday in May is traditionally observed as the National Day of Prayer.  

While observances vary from place to place, it is an appropriate day to pause for 

a moment to reflect upon and offer prayer for our life together as a nation. Indeed, 

there is much for which to give thanks, as well as much regarding which to be

concerned. Such is the nature of our life together.  Consider this prayer for your use…

Almighty God, ruler of all the peoples of the earth,

forgive, we pray, our shortcomings as a nation;

purify our hearts to see and love the truth;

give wisdom to our counselors

and steadfastness to our people;

and bring us at last to the fair city of peace,

whose foundations are mercy, justice, and goodwill,

and whose builder and maker you are;

through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

(Woodrow Wilson, as found in the Book of Common Worship)

The lectionary texts for May 5, the Third Sunday of Easter…

Acts 9:1-20

Psalm 30

Revelation 5:11-14

John 21:1-19

Internet and Social Media - Be sure to check out Walnut Hill's new internet and 

social media presence including our new…

…Walnut Hill Church Website (www.walnuthillchurchky.org)

…Facebook page - search Walnut Hill Church

…Instagram page - search walnuthillchurchky

Host(s) needed - Speaking of the website, visit our hospitality page to sign up for 

hosting our after worship gathering for a Sunday soon, including this Sunday, May 5.  

Thanks to all our hosts!

The Spring Potluck is coming on Sunday, May 19.  Bring a salad, side dish, or

dessert and join us for this delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

Cycling Ride -  The eighth annual Walnut Hill Church Cycling Ride will be held on 

Saturday, June 29.  This year we will be partnering with Bluegrass Cycling Club and 

with Athens-Chilesburg and Brenda Cowan Elementary Schools to provide bikes for 

children.  Watch for more details, including volunteer opportunities.

Women's Weekend - The Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of Lexington is 

hosting a women's weekend at Cathedral Domain, May 17 - 19.  The theme of the 

weekend is "Creating With The Sacred Feminine," featuring artist and prayer painter 

LoriLyn Hurley.  Visit The Link for more information.  Walnut Hill will sponsor any Walnut 

Hill participant for 1/2 the cost of attendance.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, April 28, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

Blessed Are…, 10am, Trinity Hall

Blessed are the Poor in Spirit…

We begin our exploration of Jesus' Beatitudes (Matthew 5) 

with reflection on what it might mean to be "poor in spirit,"

and why the "kingdom of heaven" might belong to such 

persons.

Confirmation Study, 10am, Trinity Hall

Youth continue exploring faith and their relationship

to God and the Church.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Behind Locked Doors

Text - John 20:19-31

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for children and youth.

"Jesus Appears to Thomas"  ( John 20:19-31 )

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

*****

Website Reveal - We will be introducing the new Walnut Hill

Church website.

Sandwich Assembly - We will welcome a few volunteers after

worship to assemble sandwiches for the Community Inn.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Greetings to all!

The Easter Sunday violence in Sri Lanka was a horrific expression of the 

deep animosities between peoples based on ethnicity, religion, politics and

the like. The message of Easter Sunday is a response to such violence even

as the Resurrection of Jesus was a response to the Crucifixion. On that first

Easter Sunday, God answered hatred and death with love and life.  May our 

response to this most recent example of hatred and death, and others, be 

of a kind with the Good News we celebrated last Sunday.  In the meantime,

consider this prayer for your use…

God of life and love:

You bring life in the midst of death,

love in the midst of hate.

We pray for the people of Sri Lanka,

and other places in the world,

where hatred and death are present realities.

May your love and life be equally present and real,

and may we do all within our power to make

your love and life known to all.

In the Spirit of the Risen Christ we pray.  Amen.

Visit World Council of Churches and National Council of Churches to read 

responses to Sunday's events from the global and national ecumenical 

communities.

The lectionary texts for April 28, the Second Sunday of Easter…

Acts 5:27-32

Psalm 150

Revelation 1:4-8

John 20:19-31

Blessed Are…an exploration of the Beatitudes begins this Sun, Apr 28,10am, 

as we explore the first beatitude, "Blessed are the poor in spirit.." (Matt 5:3).  

Use reply email to request a participant guide for your individual use in 

reflecting upon this beatitude and/or preparing for Sunday's conversation.

Confirmation study resumes this Sunday, April 28, 10am, as youth explore

their faith and consider their relationship with God and with the Church.

Hospitality as Mission - Mike Ward will be attending a workshop this week

focusing on mission as an expression hospitality.  

Thanks to all who participated in the One Great Hour of Sharing offering

through the use of OGHS collection boxes at home and/or special contributions.

Our early total is over $500, before counting the collection boxes. Collection

boxes are still welcome through next Sunday, April 28, after which we will send

your gifts on their way to support hunger/disaster relief, water projects and

community development around the world.

Summer Camp:  It is not too early to make plans for summer camp for children

and youth, including programs at Camp Burnamwood and Cathedral Domain.

Remember that Walnut Hill will sponsor 1/2 the cost of attending any program

at Burnamwood or the Domain.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

 

 

Easter Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, April 21, at Walnut Hill Church…

EASTER SUNDAY

THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD

Easter Sunrise, 7am, Walnut Hill Church Cemetery

Join us for this informal service as we awaken to the news

of the empty tomb. The service will be held in the cemetery,

so please dress appropriately.  In case of inclement weather,

the service will be held in the Sanctuary.  Stay for refreshments

and fellowship in Trinity Hall after the service.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Whom Do You Seek?

Text -Luke 24:1-12

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for Children

"Telling the Easter Story"  (Luke 24:1-12)

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Bring one (1) plate of Easter treats for the refreshment tables.

*****

The One Great Hour of Sharing offering will be received on

Easter Sunday.  If you have been using an OGHS coin box at 

home, please bring it to Walnut Hill this Sunday.  You may also 

contribute by cash or check (payable to Walnut Hill Church, 

memo: OGHS).  The One Great Hour of Sharing supports 

hunger/disaster relief, water projects, and human development

around the world.  For more information, visit OGHS .

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Greetings to all!

Events of recent days have reminded us of the importance of "holy places" for 

individuals, communities, and even the world.  First, there were three historic

African-American churches destroyed by fire in Louisiana.  Monday, of course, 

was the catastrophic blaze at Notre Dame in Paris.  At about the same time, a fire 

broke out at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Fortunately, those flames were 

quickly contained with little or no damage. Over this same period of time, there might

have been, and likely were, events that while escaping public notice were devastating 

to some local community, family, or individual. To each and all we offer the Easter 

affirmation that destruction, even death, is not the end of things, but rather the place 

from which new things begin, albeit perhaps in a new shape or form. At their best, 

"holy places," and that which happens within them, point toward this good news. 

Out of the tragedy of Good Friday comes the good news of Easter Sunday!  

The lectionary texts for Sunday, April 21, the Resurrection of the Lord…

Isaiah 65:17-25

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

1 Corinthians 15:19-26

Luke 24:1-12

Maundy Thursday (Apr 18) Evening Prayer, 7pm - Join us for this simple, quiet, 

gathering in the Sanctuary to recall Jesus' meal with the disciples as well as Jesus' 

words to them, and to us, as guided by Luke 22 .  The Lord's Supper will be shared.  

Nursery care will be available for young children.

Easter Sunday, April 21, at Walnut Hill Church:

-Easter Sunrise, 7am - Join us for this informal reflection on the mystery and

wonder of the empty tomb.  We will gather in the Walnut Hill Church Cemetery,

so dress appropriately.  In the case of inclement weather, the service will be held

in the Sanctuary.

-Morning Worship, 11am - Join us as we celebrate the Risen Christ, including

traditional liturgy and the sacrament of Holy Communion.  Nursery care and

Sunday School will be available for children.

-After Worship Gathering, Noon - Bring one (1) plate of Easter treats to share.

The One Great Hour of Sharing Offering will be received on Easter Sunday.

If you have been using an OGHS collection box during Lent, please bring it with 

you on Sunday.  You may also participate through a cash or check donation

(payable to Walnut Hill Church, memo: OGHS).  The One Great Hour of Sharing

offering supports hunger and disaster relief, water projects, and community

development around the world.  For more information, visit OGHS .

Thanks to the children for their spirited celebration of Palm Sunday and their

skillful hunting of eggs after worship.  Not a single egg was left unclaimed!

Lost and Found:  A "Disabled Persons Parking" permit was found on the church

grounds this week.  Contact the church office (859-263-5304) if this might belong

to you.

A Blessed Holy Week and Happy Easter to All.

Mike Ward

 

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, April 14, at Walnut Hill Church…

PALM/PASSION SUNDAY

Walnut Hill Egg Hunt

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Jesus Died for Me?

We'll explore the origins of the notion of the "atonement"

accomplished by Jesus' death and what it might mean

for us today.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Making Too Much Noise

Text -Luke 19:28-40

Procession of the Palms

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for Children and Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

EGG HUNT, After Worship, Church Grounds

Children are invited to hunt for eggs hidden around the 

church grounds.  Bring a basket for your "hunter" as well 

as 1 dozen stuffed eggs to add to the hunt.  

Rain date April 21.

*****

The Nathaniel Mission is co-hosting an egg hunt

at Cardinal Valley Park on Easter weekend.  Walnut

Hill is supplying "stuffed eggs" for this event.  You

can help by helping us stuff some eggs (supplies

provided) this Sunday, April 14, after worship.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Greetings to all!

"Holy Week" (a.k.a. Passion Week) is upon us, a journey of reflection from

Palm/Passion Sunday to Easter Sunday (The Resurrection of the Lord).

Dorothy Bass surveys the path ahead…

For one whole week, we relive in present time a devastating sequence of

events that took place in a minor city of the Roman Empire twenty centuries

ago…As if we were in Jerusalem ourselves, we wave palms and shout

Hosanna! on the day that is both Palm Sunday and Passion Sunday. The

shouts soon ring hollow, however, for we know that by week's end the crowd

will abandon the one we now acclaim.  On Thursday, he will host us at a

table of love and forgiveness, even though he knows it too.  With this meal,

we enter the heart of the paschal mystery for the three days known as

Triduum. After Thursday's arrest come Friday's crucifixion, Saturday's silence,

and Sunday's glory…

(as found in Receiving the Day)

Join us for this year's Holy Week journey!

The lectionary texts for April 14, Palm/Passion Sunday…

Isaiah 50:4-9

Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

Philippians 2:5-11

Luke 19:28-40

Sunday Conversations resume this Sun, Apr 14, 10am, with a conversation

titled, "Jesus Died for Me?"  We'll explore the origins of the notion that Jesus

had to die for us, and what it might mean for us today.

The Walnut Hill Egg Hunt is scheduled for Sun, April 14, immediately after

morning worship.  Younger children are invited to hunt for stuffed eggs hidden

around the church grounds.  Participant parents/grandparents (and others) are

invited to bring a dozen or so stuffed eggs to add to the hunt.  Rain date is

April 21.

Easter Lilies - Once again this Easter we will be decorating the Sanctuary with

Easter Lilies.  You can sponsor a lily for $20/plant.  Make your check payable to

Walnut Hill Church (memo: Lily).  Be sure to let us know if your sponsorship is

in memory/honor of someone special to you.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE:

Sunday, April 14, Palm Sunday

*Procession of the Palms during morning worship (11am).

*Egg Hunt for children (Noon) - please bring a basket for hunting as well as

a dozen stuffed eggs to add to the hunt (rain date, Apr 21).

Thursday, April 18, Maundy Thursday

*Evening Prayer and the Lord's Supper, 7pm - Join us for this service of reflection

on the passion of Jesus.  (nursery care available for young children)

Sunday, April 21, Easter Sunday

*Sunrise Service, 7am - Join us for this simple celebration of the resurrection of 

Jesus.  Service will be held in the Walnut Hill Cemetery.  In case of inclement 

weather, the service will be held in the Sanctuary.

*Morning Worship & Holy Communion, 11am - Join us for this traditional liturgy

and sacrament.  Nursery care and Sunday School available for children.

The One Great Hour of Sharing offering will be received on Easter Sunday,

April 21.  Bring your coin collection boxes to Walnut HIll on that day.  You may

also contribute via cash/check (payable to Walnut Hill Church, memo: OGHS).

The One Great Hour of Sharing offering supports disaster/hunger relief, water

projects, and human empowerment around the world.  Visit OGHS for more

information.

The Nathaniel Mission is co-hosting a community egg hunt on Sunday, April 21,

at Cardinal Valley Park. Walnut Hill is supporting this effort by providing stuffed

eggs for the hunt. You can help us this Sun, April 14, by "stuffing" some eggs

after worship (supplies provided). The eggs will then be delivered to the Mission 

for use on Apr 21. 

Thanks to all who in front of, and behind, the scenes made it possible for Barb

and me to gather with family and friends to celebrate our son's wedding this past

weekend.  It was a joyful occasion!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

This Sunday, April 7, at Walnut Hill Church…

THE FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT

Mindfulness, 10am, Trinity Hall

Mindfulness:  A Spiritual Practice and A Way of Life

"The Space of the Mind" & "Fair Trade and Sustainability"

Join us as we complete our exploration of mindfulness

with a period of meditation and information regarding the

importance fair trade and sustainability, both for others'

and our own good.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Unconditional Love, But…

Text - John 12:1-8

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Preacher/Worship Leader - The Rev. Dr. David Sharrard

Faith Formation, 11am, Trinity Hall

Nursery Care and Classes for Children/Youth

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for fellowship and refreshments.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

Greetings to all!

By this point in Lent (5 weeks in) the journey might be getting a little long.  We 

might need encouragement to keep up whatever practice we might have taken 

up for the season.  Consider this…

Lent is a time to take the time

to let the power of our faith story take hold of us,

a time to let the events

get up and walk around us,

a time to intensify

our living unto Christ,

a time to hover over

the thoughts of our hearts,

a time to place our feet in the streets of Jerusalem

or to walk along the sea and listen to his word,

a time to touch his robe

and feel a healing surge through us,

a time to ponder and a time to wonder…

Lent is a time to allow a fresh new taste of God!

(Anne Weems as found in Kneeling in Jerusalem)

The lectionary texts for April 7, the Fifth Sunday in Lent…

Isaiah 43:16-21

Psalm 126

Philippians 3:4-14

John 12:1-8

Mindfulness: A Spiritual Practice and A Way of Life continues Sun, April 7, 

10am.  Our spiritual practice  will focus on "The Space of the Mind."  Our way 

of life conversation will focus on "Fair Trade and Sustainability."

Easter Lilies - Once again this Easter we will be decorating the Sanctuary with

Easter Lilies.  You can sponsor a lily for $20/plant.  Make your check payable to

Walnut Hill Church (memo: Lily).  Be sure to let us know if your sponsorship is

in memory/honor of someone special to you.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE:

Sunday, April 14, Palm Sunday

*Procession of the Palms during morning worship (11am).

*Egg Hunt for children (Noon) - please bring a basket for hunting as well as

a dozen stuffed eggs to add to the hunt (rain date, Apr 21).

Thursday, April 18, Maundy Thursday

*Evening Prayer and the Lord's Supper, 7pm - Join us for this service of reflection

on the passion of Jesus.  (nursery care available for young children)

Sunday, April 21, Easter Sunday

*Sunrise Service, 7am - Join us for this informal celebration of the resurrection

of Jesus.  Service will be held in the Walnut Hill Church Cemetery.  In case

of inclement weather, the service will be held in the Sanctuary.

*Morning Worship & Holy Communion, 11am - Join us for this traditional liturgy

and sacrament.  Nursery care and Sunday School available for children.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward