News for the week of October 5-11, 2023

This is Thanksgiving weekend. A time for us to pause and reflect on God’s goodness and grace.

Last Sunday I spoke on the subject of grief and shared some practical thoughts which have helped me deal with these dark thoughts and feelings.

Unfortunately, we ran out of printed transcripts of my message. Some have asked if we could make more available. So, Tracey has run off some additional copies and placed them on the information table alongside copies of this Sunday’s message. Feel free to pick up a copy of either or both.

This coming Sunday I want to reflect on what I believe is God’s greatest - The Gift of His Presence.

On this Thanksgiving Sunday, we also want to collect items for the Harvest Project. A list from Harvest Project of their most needed items is attached to this email.

As a Church, we are also facing some significant decisions going forward. So, I would invite you to dedicate one day this coming week to a time of Prayer and Fasting. I would encourage a day that works for you. I have found that it’s easier if you begin your fast in the evening, continue into the next day, and break it the following evening.

Prayer and fasting have played an important role in helping God’s people discern the leading of the Spirit. Before launching His public ministry, Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to wait on God for direction. He also withdrew to a solitary place to pray before He chose his 12 disciples. And again, at the zenith of his popularity when the crowd wanted to seize him and make Him their king.

So, I would encourage us to take a day to seek God’s Face and listen to His voice as we seek to serve Him together. “Lord what do you want to say to us? Speak your servant is listening”. May you find peace in the embrace of the Father’s presence.

Please take time to pray for those members of our church family facing serious health issues.