October 2007

October is shaping up to be a busy month. On Sunday the 7th we will be observing three significant events in the life of the church – one symbolic and two tangible. The first, World Communion Sunday, is a special time for us to celebrate God’s grace and peace, and our unity in Christ with our sisters and brothers around the world, as we break bread and share the cup. In worship you will see visible representations of the gifts of peoples around the world: a cut-work communion cloth from India, a mosaic chalice from Israel, a pottery pitcher from Scotland, a paten (plate) from the United States and colorful woven paraments and stoles from Guatemala. In addition, a variety of communion breads will serve as a reminder of the uniqueness and unity we share as people of God.

The second event, the Peacemaking Offering, reinforces the spirit of World Communion with financial support of many peacemaking efforts around the globe. Twenty-five percent of the Peacemaking Offering will be retained by West Emory Church to support our own peacemaking ministry as designated by the Session. 25 per cent is used to support presbytery and synod peacemaking efforts; and 50 per cent is forwarded to the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program of our denomination. Special offering envelopes will be available in the worship bulletins.

The third event, the Two-Cents-a-Meal Offering, will be received the first Sunday of each month in worship with the help of our children. During the month families and individuals are encouraged to collect a few coins at each meal prayerfully remembering those who are hungry and are in need of our support. Containers are found on the bulletin boards in the hallways at the church.

In addition to these events, we will also welcome back our Pumpkin Patch! What a joyous sight it is to see a sea of orange pumpkins gracing our church’s front lawn. This mission outreach program has not only brought attention to our church and its ministry but also touched the lives of families in our community and beyond who need some support and care. I am looking forward to all the times we will be getting together this fall for worship, fellowship, study and ministry.  I hope you will join me and invite your family and friends, co-workers and acquaintances. Together we are the Body of Christ in ministry and mission.

Peace and Blessings,
Miki