Dear Caldwell,
On days that begin as this one did, it’s hard to think ahead. The events in Japan and on our shores will make for an unfolding story throughout the weekend. It may seem like Sunday is further away than usual this Friday. Then again, it’s on days like this when we look forward to Sunday, our time to ask God for help in the face of such events.
Sunday, which begins Daylight Savings Time, is the first Sunday in Lent and we will begin a somewhat different route to the cross. With the exception of another bilingual worship service on March 20, we will take this season to consider the traditions, or disciplines, of Christianity that spring directly from Christ’s own habits: how he prayed, how he worked for social justice, what virtues he taught us, how he manifested the written word of God in scripture. We begin this Sunday with a focus on the Contemplative Tradition, which is the life of prayer.
An important note about Sunday: You may want to arrive at worship before 11:00. Happily, we will be joined in worship by up to 75 Presbyterian teens who are participating in a 30 Hour Fast and will join us for worship as part of that experience. With them, the sanctuary is likely to be very full.
We also have the wonderful blessing of welcoming our two newest members, Amy Kiviranna and Peg Robarchek (see the pictures). We will learn why 5 Cents a Meal is now 10 Cents a Meal (don’t forget). Our choir will no doubt bless us. Then, on Sunday night, we will gather to continue to watch and discuss Eyes on the Prize and reflect on the civil rights movement.
Let us keep member Johnny Johnson in prayer. He is at Mercy Hospital, undergoing tests. He is not quite ready for visitors today and tomorrow. We will keep you updated. A “joy” is that Kathy Neal had a successful procedure yesterday and received good results. She is home resting.
Lastly, look for the March edition of the Caldwell Good News when you come to worship. It has a rich mix of stories and more detail on our newest partners on campus, Bread of Life Christian Ministries. Thanks to those who have worked this week – and will work again tomorrow – to prepare a space for these brothers and sisters in Christ.
See you Sunday as we ‘Let it be Lent.’
In Christ,
John