A-ha! Baptism
This week – we remember Jesus’ Baptism according to Luke. This account is different from the others – Jesus has been baptized, was praying, and then the heavens broke open, the spirit descended, and God claimed him as “My Beloved.” I am struck by the fact this isn’t about the relationship between John & Jesus – but about God’s love and faithfulness to God’s people.
We may not remember our own baptisms but that doesn’t keep God from claiming us as Beloved and calling us into relationship. As we affirm our baptisms and the promises made, we affirm that relationship.
At Shepherd of the Hills, we invite those who were baptized in the last year to return on this day and receive their baptismal banners. It’s a joy to remember and grow with these brothers and sisters in Christ. This year, we will also welcome a sister in Christ through baptism at 10:15 AM.
Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself on your faith journey, know that you are most welcome here.
Joins us for worship on Sunday, January 10 at 8 & 10:15 AM. There will be Faith Formation for the youth beginning at 9:15 AM
Blessings,
Pastor Tina
Thanks!: to our ministry partner – Fabian Bridge. They presented SOTH with an additional monetary gift in appreciation for being able to call SOTH home.
2016 Giving Envelopes – If you are a family that gives using envelopes, we encourage you to pick up your 2016 box at church. Please begin to use these January 3, 2015.
House Church Visits: Beginning January 9, a series of house church visits will begin. These two hour sessions will help us get to know our ‘neighbors’ as well as begin to vision for the church. Please watch your mail for your invitation & RSVP to your host.
On January 9, “Sparta North” will meet at the Mahons from 4-6. On January 10, “Newton” will meet at the Whipples. Contact PTina for more information.
Brown Bag Bible Study – is back! We meet at noon on Wednesdays in the Parish Hall. On January 10 we will continue Luke 2 and head into Luke 3. All are welcome!
Faith Formation Outreach: The outreach project for January and February will be to make baby kits for Lutheran World Relief. Keep checking for more information. Visit Baby Care Kits for more information about this project. We plan on working together on February 7 during the education hour.
Remembering our Baptism: Sunday January 10 is the commemoration of Jesus’ Baptism and we stop to also remember our own baptisms. This day we are also inviting those who were baptized since January 2015 to return and receive their baptismal banners.
Un-decorate the Church: It’s that time – to un-green the church. Join us Sunday January 10 after worship to remove and store our holiday decorations until next November. If you have a nativity in the window, please take it home. If you bought a poinsettia, you are welcome to take that as well.
Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: We join with Christians around the world praying for our brothers and sisters in joy and concern. For January 10-January 16, we pray for Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen. Learn more about these countries when you click on the link, which will direct you to the World Council of Churches website.