Transformative
hope in a
complex world.

May Worship Services – 10am – Hybrid

May 1 – Transformation on the Journey
One of the lessons I continue to learn evolves from a recognition that I need to continue to learn. I struggle with the question of why do people do evil so willingly and cheerfully in the name of God? Some are stoking the flames of fear and targeting those marginalized by hate speech. Is transformation possible for these persons? What’s my role in working toward that transformation and the transformation of oppressive systems? Does the need for speaking truth into the public square conflict with seeking the things that make for peace? This Sunday we will consider the transformation of one such person in history what we might learn from his story.

May 8 – Trusting in God’s Provision for the Challenges We Face
Those who stoke fear and uncertainty during rising inflation, high gas prices, political division do so as a means of controlling the masses for the benefit of the rich and powerful. Where do we find comfort and hope? The Psalmist and Jesus use the common role of shepherd to offer assurances of care, comfort and support as an antidote to the fear’s poison. While the idea of shepherds is hard for us to grasp in the 21st century of cars that drive themselves “hands free,” we will explore the teachings we find in Psalm 23 and John 10 that offer light and hope for today.

May 15 – Making What Things New?
As bad news continues to roll in, many of us are feeling tired, worn down, and ready for a change. What hope can we find for a world that looks different, that has more justice? Eric McEuen, our Music Director, will look for hope in an unlikely place: an ancient poetic text that is often misunderstood (and often abused) but was meant to inspire hope for a transformed world and a more just order.

May 22 – Can We Speak of Peace in the Face of War, Drought and Famine?
Some believe that these extraordinary difficult days of war, devastating impacts of climate change, and uncertain economic times make speaking of peace impossible or Pollyannaish. For those of us who have lived through dark days in the histories of our lives, we do have a message of encouragement and hope to offer the generations who follow if we will listen for opportunities to share our stories. And while our stories might not be as interesting as social media for some, our experiences with resilience and resistance in the difficult chapters of our lives have much to offer those living with fear and frustration. May we have ears to hear and hearts to care for those overwhelmed by the noise of our day.

May 29
Tentative plans are being made for us to join with our friends at Kirk of the Bonnie Brae for worship on May 29th. We will have transitioned the current set up of our sanctuary to our prior and preferred semicircle arrangement of pews around our Communion Table, facing the south wall. Stay tuned for updates.