The Truth about Christian Freedom
We’re back with a new blog post. I (Pastor Tina) apologize for the lack of posting. I promise to better.
so…this week in the life of Shepherd of the Hills…
This Sunday, we celebrate the 16th century reformation of the church as well as the continually reforming nature of our faith – that we grow and learn and change as the Spirit moves us. We also celebrate the affirmation of faith that four students will publicly acknowledge today.
But the true center of this day is found in the readings. The God we know in the person of Jesus is the one we can turn to in times of crisis, the one we call upon in times of fear, the one we trust to pour out mercy and forgiveness upon us. This Jesus is our solid foundation. In a world of chaos, confusion, and change there is a constant: the enduring and life-giving grace of God.
On Reformation Sunday—as we do every day—we remember that we are not ashamed of this good news, this gospel. Thanks be to God.
No matter where you are or however you find yourself in your faith journey, know that you are most welcome here.
Join us at 8 AM or 10:15 AM on Sunday for worship. Visit our website or Facebookpage for information and announcements.
Affirmation of Baptism:
Together with the church, we celebrate with Hannah, Joe, Nick, & Jessica as they affirm the promises made for them at their baptism. Join us in prayer and worship on Sunday, October 25 at 10:15 AM.
These young people will be sharing their service projects with the congregation through November worship.
PSS Thanksgiving Project: The donations for the PSS Thanksgiving project are coming in. Thanks so much. We are still looking for hands, cans, and money donations. Check out the chart and the sign-ups in the narthex. We are accepting donations through November 15.
Brown Bag Bible Study: The letter of James is a letter in the Christian SCpritures that we don’t spend a lot time studying. But it is a letter full of practical wisdom on living one’s faith. Join us on Wednesdays at Non in the parish hall. For October 28, we will study James 2.
Special Congregational Meeting: On Sunday November 1 after both worship services, a brief congregational meeting will be held to discuss the purchase of a 2nd new boiler. Last winter, one new boiler was purchased to replace the more broken one of the two we utilize to heat our facility. We received a settlement from the insurance company for that replacement, which will cover the purchase of the 2nd boiler. As it is beyond 1% of the spending plan, a congregational vote is required. All confirmed members of the congregation are eligible to vote.
All Saints Remembrance: As we celebrate those who have gone before us, we invite you to share with us the names of friends and family who have entered the church triumphant since last November. Please click on the linkChurch Office or call the church (973-729-7010) to share those names with us. They will be read during the prayers.
There will also be a lighting of candles at the beginning of worship to remember all who know live with God.
Help Wanted: the leaves are falling on the parking lot and the plants are dying. While we haven’t scheduled a work day, your time and talents are appreciated in helping to prepare the grounds for winter – especially the shrub beds. Show up with you can and do what you can. Thanks!