From Pastor B.J.’s Desk - October 23rd
Friends of Church of the Incarnation, This coming Sunday, October 25, 10:15 a.m., we celebrate the Church! It is both Reformation Sunday and Consecration Sunday when we make commitments to God that support ministry and mission. We invite you to wear red (a sign of a people of the Spirit). We also invite you to bring a canned good or other staple of food to share with the three families we are supporting. Come and enjoy the music, and the pictures of our Church in action, prayer and worship. The scriptures are from Mark’s gospel. Two unexpected people offer themselves to God in discipleship and faithfulness in Mark 10: 46 - 52, and Mark 12: 41 - 44. First, a man suffering from blindness, Bartimaeus recognizes Jesus as the Christ and recovers his sight. Then, a poor widow gives all that she has in the offering. The sermon is “Offering Ourselves to God.” Consider what gifts God has given to you, and what do you have to give for God? There will be a time in the worship service to receive your financial commitment for 2010. Immediately after worship, everyone is invited to a brunch in Fellowship Hall to give thanks for and celebrate the people of Incarnation! Then, plan to see those ghosts and goblins out in the parking lot for “Trunk or Treat” at 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Bring the children to enjoy the treats! I understand there is coffee and donuts for the parents, too. For the youth, they will be enjoying “Frightfest” at Great America on Saturday, October 24, and then to the church for an all night lock-in. Thanks to the 15 Walkers for the CROP Walk, and the sponsors. We raised $980 towards the total of $10,000 from all of the churches. WOW! Thanks to all who came out for Work Day last Saturday to clean up and spruce up. Finally, looking ahead, Sunday, November 1, is All Saints Day. Remember to let us know if there is a loved one in your life to be remembered on that Sunday morning with the reading of the names and lighting of a candle. You can give it to me, or contact Tami in the office. Think on these words of Erich Fromm: “Not those who have much are rich, but those who give much.” Your Friend and Pastor, B.J.