This Week from Mitch

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we look to the weekend, I want to remind everyone that if you do not feel safe coming to church, please stay home. As of now, Sunday services are still scheduled. Last week, the combination of the threat of winter weather and the HVAC in the church going down caused our cancellation. Thankfully, the heat is working again!

That said, if you come this week, please note that at 9:15 AM, before the 10:30 AM service, we have an important Sunday School class. We have moved it from the Garden Room to the Parish Hall because so many of you have said you are coming. Chris Hammond and Jim Morgan will teach about online safety and internet fraud and share ways to protect yourself and those you love. This information is important and can help keep you safe.

This week has felt heavy. As I look at what has happened in Minnesota and the way violence has dominated our news cycle, I, like many of you, shake my head in sorrow and bewilderment. It's awful, and I have found myself oscillating between anger and sadness. This week's readings are the Beatitudes and Micah 6:1-8. In them, we will be reminded that the sacrifice God calls us to offer to him is to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God." For me, this walk begins at the altar and ends up in the world when we are told to "go in peace to love and serve the Lord." I invite you to come and pray, as I believe the strength and love of God will be needed to navigate the uncertainty ahead.

Peace,

Mitch