Officially, the calendar says summer lasts a little while longer, and the heat outside is an ever-present reminder. Still, most families with kids begin school next week, so this is the last weekend of summer. I’ve enjoyed hearing about the comings and goings and various adventures of members of the Caldwell family. Some of you laid low close to home. Some wandered far and wide. Thanks be to God for a safe summer and for the prospect of fall and its comforting routines.
In worship Sunday, we will hold up all of those who are connected to learning – teachers, students, parents and volunteers – and ask God’s blessings on them as a new school year begins. In scripture (Jeremiah 1:4-10) and sermon, we have a chance to explore an intriguing – and ultimately comforting notion – the “humanity of God.” (After the Tower of Power last Sunday, I have to say the bar looked high.) In Sunday school, we will look at the parable of the empty house (Matthew 12:38-50).
An update on our proposed Emergency Overflow Shelter for Homeless Women: The Salvation Army, which would run the 30- to 50-bed shelter in our Price Building, has been busy with fund raising to find the needed $77,000 for a 90-day shelter. Early signs look promising but nothing is certain at this point. We have tentatively targeted the weekend of Sept. 17/18/19 as the opening date. If we stick to that, we would most likely have a work day to prepare the space a week earlier on Sept. 11, in case you want to mark your calendars. Stay tuned for more as it comes in, and thanks to those elders and leaders who are working on this project.
Whether you are trying to salvage what’s left of your grass, shopping for back-to-school or just trying to rest this weekend, peace be with you. Come give thanks on Sunday.
John