2/10/12

FROM YOUR INTERIM PASTOR, THE REV. ANNE SWALLOW GILLIS

Dear Immanuel Members and Friends,

Coping with unexpected illness or chronic physical conditions can drain our energy and our spirits.  As we try to deal with upended schedules, discomfort and worry, financial hurtles and navigating a complicated medical system, we may wonder: "where is God in all this?"  Our scripture texts this Sunday, February 12, lead us into some challenging perspectives on both God's role and our part in healing. 2 Kings 5:1-14 and Mark 1:40-45 each describe people who need healing from skin disease.  Yet, in both stories, there are certain barriers revealed that inhibit these desired changes.  In what ways might our interpretation of scripture and tradition stand in the way of healing?  My sermon will explore how we can more fully participate in the healing of individuals and of community.  

Our children will join us for the first part of worship, and then will go to Children's Church to make Valentine's cards for our homebound members.  Anyone interested in helping the Spiritual Council consider which Bible translation to use for our new pew Bibles, is welcome to join us in the Council Room after Coffee Hour.  Finally, the Pastoral Search Committee will meet in the evening to read through the 79 member surveys that have been received so far.  A busy and full Sunday at Immanuel Church!

Hope you can be part of it....

In ministry with you,

Anne

ASSISTING IN SUNDAY’S WORSHIP SERVICE:

Nursery Assistant: Tammy Luthy
Acolyte: Taylor Middleton
Ushers: Robin & John Moore, Debi & Jay Book
Sound System: Keith Malkus
Choir Director/Organist: J. Curtis White
Pianist: Lynne Breil
Children’s Church: Susie Creighton

Today        8:45-11:30am Nursery Care
                  9:00am Sunday School for all ages/Adult Bible Study
                10:00am Worship
                  6:00pm Pastoral Search
Thursday   5:30pm Confirmation Class
                  6:30pm Choir Practice

This Saturday, February 11, Confirmation Mentor’s Breakfast at the Barnett’s  9-10:30am

Sunday Brunch – February 19 – 11:15 a.m. Pancakes, with all the fixings.

The Lenten season has long been a somewhat solemn time of introspection and penance, as we ponder the ministry of Jesus and the final days of his life on earth.   Right before the beginning of the six-weeks of Lent, the eve of Ash Wednesday was a time of revelry and wild pageantry, as in “Mardi Gras” and “Carnival” festivities throughout Europe, the Caribbean and New Orleans.  A tradition of “Mardi Gras,” which means “Fat Tuesday,” was to eat plenty of buttery and rich foods in anticipation of Lenten somberness and fasting.  

Here at Immanuel, we will be celebrating in style with our own “Fat Sunday,” and a brunch filled with pancakes, breakfast meats, and all the fixings!   Join your church family for some good eating. 

Wednesday Night at Immanuel     Starting February 22!

6:00 pm - Join us for a simple supper in Fellowship Hall. Christian Education Board is our host for Feb. 22 with Spaghetti, salad, bread and desserts.Just put a donation in the basket and enjoy!

6:30 pm - Gather in the candle-lit Sanctuary for a time of singing,story and prayer for all ages (6 to 106) as we observe the ancient tradition of Ash Wednesday.Childcare is provided in our nursery for children 5 and under.

7:00 pm - Head for home, filled with a renewed sense of connection with God and your church family!