The Messenger - September 30, 2011 - World Communion Sunday
"It's
World Communion Sunday!"
by Rev. Neal Neuenschwander
Thus, Sunday, October 2, is one of my favorite Sundays of the entire year. First, we will hear some wonderful multi-ethnic music (along with traditional favorites). Then, we'll hear about two churches (including ours) that transcended cultural barriers for the sake of Jesus Christ. Then, we will share in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper on the very same Sunday it is observed in almost every Christian Church throughout the world.
After worship, we will go upstairs into McDonald Hall for a Global Missions Fair, highlighting the accomplishments of several worthwhile groups who take the love of Jesus throughout the world. Some bring food to the hungry, some build homes for the poor, some bring deliverance to drug addicts, some bring love to young children, and some bring hope to our teens. This year, as in years past, you will be able to purchase some beautiful third world crafts and some tasty baked goods brought by Dottie Hill. You'll be offered free soup and fruit, and you'll be able to purchase "alternative Christmas gifts" for disadvantaged folks in honor or memory of those you love.
This year, we are also inviting each church member to launch a new tradition: wearing clothes or jewelry that represents some other culture. Perhaps you have a necklace from Kenya or a scarf from Eastern Europe. Perhaps you own a shawl from the Andes or a madras tie. Native American artifacts would certainly be appropriate. So would kilts, bowlers, berets, or any other item of clothing from your ancestor's native land.
The reason we can celebrate "World Communion Sunday" is that the good news of Jesus Christ has transcended every barrier erected by human hands. That doesn't mean that every Christian worships freely, but it does mean that God is working to make all Christians free. Because we have been blessed with the freedom to follow Christ, our task is to bless others--including some who are very different from ourselves. This Sunday gives us a chance to celebrate that blessing and extend it into the lives of others.
I'll see you in church!
Neal
Coming Events
-A group of volunteers from First Presbyterian Church will be participating in a Habitat for Humanity building project this Saturday, October 1st. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian ministry that helps to provide simple and affordable housing to families in need. If interested, please email Andrew Brabbée: abrabbee@hw.com
-The bells are back from their refurbishment. Therefore, rehearsals will commence Sept. 28th and every Wed. henceforth with the exception of the Wed. before Thanksgiving. We rehearse from 7-8:!5 PM in the bell room. See Nan Roberts.
- The next Men's Breakfast is Saturday, October 22nd, at 8:30am. Contact Jim Peacock for further information (310-702-6730).
Calendar
Fri, Sept 30
7:00 pm - Youth Hangout
Sat, Oct 1
5:00 pm - Communion
Sun, Oct 2
8:30 am - Adult Sunday School
9:30 am - Worship
11:00 am - Alternative Christmas Market
11:00 am - Worship and Music Meeting
Mon, Oct 3
7:00 pm - Women's Bible Study
Tue, Oct 4
7:00 pm - Most commissions meet
Wed, Oct 5
7:00 am - Bible Study at Carrow's
1:00 pm - Women's Bible Study
4:00 pm - Homework Hangout
4:00 pm - Angel Choir Rehearsal
4:00 pm - Parent Hangout
4:30 pm - Cherub Choir Rehearsal
5:00 pm - Gospel Gang Choir Rehearsal
5:45 pm - Dinner for Jr. and Sr. High Schoolers
6:15 pm - King's Chorus Choir Rehearsal
7:00 pm - Prayer Group
7:15 pm - SonLight Singers Choir Rehearsal
Thu, Oct 6
9:30 am - Deacon's Meeting
7:30 pm - Chancel Choir Rehearsal
Fri, Oct 7
7:00 pm - Choir Retreat - Off Campus
7:00 pm - Youth Hangout
Sat, Oct 8
9:00 am - Choir Retreat at Church
Sun, Oct 9
8:30 am - Adult Sunday School
9:30 am - Worship
Amy Hubbard is the new editor of the Messenger.
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