Walk by Faith and Not by Sight
We are starting a new series titled “Behave as if You Believe It”. Sounds tough, doesn’t it? What do you mean, behave as if you believe it? What?
In a time when our actions as Christians speak louder than our words – we are called to revisit those things that ground us in faith – the bible, prayer, action, the sacraments, sharing the Good News, giving from our abundance. Or more simply – our discipleship. Walking our talk.
So we will look closely at 2 Corinthians and Ephesians this summer, reading and studying the words of advice and encouragement that Paul shared with the new Christian communities.
This week, we begin with a phrase that packs a punch and deflates our need for independence. Walking by faith and not by sight – fully relying on God that God will be with us wherever and whatever we do. Not because we can prove it. Because God promised it.
And then – helping each other to walk by faith – because by ourselves, it’s hard to do alone.
No matter where you are in your journey of faith…know that you are most welcome here.
Join us as well on our website, Facebook page, and Twitter (@spartapastor).
Living in the resurrection promise,
Pastor Tina +
We Welcome.
Friday Lunch Bunch:
Mark your calendars for the next lunch bunch. Friday June 19, 12 PM @ Lake Mohawk CC Boardwalk Restaurant. If you have questions, please contact Jane Lewandowski.
Summer Worship Schedule:
Beginning June 28 through August 31, we will transition to the following days and times for worship:
Sunday Mornings: Worship at 9 AM, with fellowship afterward.
Wednesday Evenings: Meal at 6:30 PM, Worship at 7:30 PM
We know that many of you have weekend plans for the summer or are working on Sunday mornings. We pray that the adjustment of our schedule will help you all remain connected to the church community and continue to feed you as you all feed us.
We will begin Wednesdays on July 1 and end on Sept 2.
Synod Assembly: Last week (June 4-6), PAstor Tina attended Synod Assembly in Long Branch, NJ. Two new pastors were ordained the first evening! Resolutions regarding Immigration, Heroin Epidemic, and Criminal Justice were discussed by those assembled. It was a great chance to catch up with colleagues and to brainstorm ideas of how we can all grow together. Check out some of the things Pastor Tina brought back on the bulletin board in the Parish Hall. You can also go to www.njsynod.org to learn more.
We Equip.
Wednesday Noon Bible Study:
All are welcome to join in a study of the Letter to the Romans. It’s the longest letter we have of the Apostle Paul and every word is important. We will discuss chapter 4 & 5 next week June 17 at noon in the Parish Hall. If you are interested in studying along with us – drop PTina a note and she’ll send you the study guide.
Coffee Hour Fellowship & Wednesday Meals:
We are in need of ‘hosts’ for our fellowship & meals during June, July, & August. There are sign-ups on the announcement shutters or contact the church office if you are interested.
Faith Formation & Confirmation:
Both of our youth learning opportunities are on hiatus for the summer. And we’re starting to plan for the fall. Keep the team in your prayers.
Community Garden:
It’s planted! And growing! Thanks to the hands that started this project. And thanks in advance to the hands that will help keep it alive! Check out the pictures on our church’s Facebook page.
The next step will be to install deer fencing around the perimeter. If you are interested in helping, please contact Pastor Tina!
We send.
Save the Date: Sunday August 2 – Sussex Lutherans at the Sussex Miners game…More info soon…
Faith Kitchen at Trinity Lutheran in Dover has announced that it is looking for a new Director of Daily Operations. If you are a motivated professional with a Social Services background this may be the right opportunity. The Faith kitchen is a daily soup kitchen that serves lunch 6 days a week, 52 weeks a year. The director is primarily responsible for overseeing the daily lunch program, supply ordering, client interaction and volunteer coordination. A detailed job description and compensation plan is available upon contact. If you are interested, contact the Faith Kitchen via email (faithkitchendover@gmail.com) or phone (973-219-7560) You may also send your resume and references to the attention of Jane Kraus.
SEC Food Pantry Gift of the Month:This year, we are switching up our offerings a bit. There are many things that folks need but are unable to buy with SNAP dollars. They are also things that we normally don’t think about when we donate our food. For the months ofMay, June & July, we are asking for donations to support the Summer Children’s Lunch Program. Look in the right column for a list of food to donate.
Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle enables us to journey in prayer through every region of the world and through every week of the year affirming our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts.