As we head towards Fall, what’s going to keep us strong? What’s going to be important to us?
We may feel overwhelmed by all we’ve got on our schedules, or just by each week’s world news: “now what?!” We may feel at odds with our political leaders; at odds with the cultural values of our day: self-centered ambition? Lack of compassion? Do we also feel at odds with other Christians? We are the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. But where “evangelical” once meant for us “liberated by good news,” it’s now associated with a whole different posture and set of beliefs.
So what do we believe? What visions, convictions, values and practices do we want to see handed down to the next generation? My parents pass down their love of music-making and book-learning; their sense of humor, curiosity and openness about people who are different from us. They pass down fragile porcelain cups that need to be safely stowed in a china cabinet; they show us their favorite mountain vistas and waterfalls. The faith we pass down is more like the vista than the cup; not something fragile to preserve from the world, but a source of life that preserves us.
At worship on Rally Day – September 7 – we’ll pray the “entrance” to the psalms, Psalm 1. It’s about faith as a source of life, when we meditate on God’s word. It says those who delight in God’s torah (teachings) are like trees planted by streams of flowing water. In God’s word and living presence, we’re rooted, nourished, fruitful and strong. Most of the psalms we’ll pray at worship on Sundays this Fall are about finding strong roots in God.
So what are we doing this Fall?
We’re exploring our roots, seeking the source of life. It’s a Lutheran tradition to always be beginning, going back to basics. In a variety of ways we’ll be asking: what’s our faith about and why is it important to us? What convictions, visions, values and practices do we want to see passed down to the next generations? Here’s a few ways will do this:
We rally for Fall church programs on September 7. Festivities include a visit from the principal of Seton School (where we send the backpacks), a special potluck and service project.
Come at 9am on Sundays to read John’s Gospel. Learn who Jesus is, how he calls us to faith, and – a special theme in John – how he gives life. Details here.
On Sunday, September 21 – learn about our pattern of worship. This will be a special “teaching liturgy,” where the presider and bulletin explain our order of worship. Afterwards, stay to learn about worship assistant roles such as reader or cantor. Consider trying a new role this year.
Sundays, September 28-October 19 after worship, “Handing on the Faith.” A few brief, special learning activities for kids and parents. Details coming soon.
Preaching series with conversation opportunities, October 12 through November 2: “The Freedom of a Christian.” This little book may be Martin Luther’s is a true spiritual classic – about faith as a a sort of worldly, neighbor-loving mysticism. We’ll use it in sermons together with lectionary texts as a primer on a Lutheran approach to faith and values. Topics:
October 12: The Message. What do we mean by “God’s word?”
October 19: The Embrace. Who are we to God, and why does it matter?
October 26: The Experience. What kind of freedom is this?
November 2: The Life. What does it mean to live in love for our neighbors?
Tentatively planning discussions after worship, October 26 and November 2.
Our stewardship theme will be related: “we’re not in this alone,” celebrating our unity in faith. We’ll invite pledges for November 9.
Here’s some of our other Fall plans:
Friday, September 19: 20s-40s Young Adult Dinner with the pastors.
Friday-Sunday, October 3-5: Camping weekend at Memorial Park.
Saturday, October 11, 9am-Noon: a fun all-age work day.
Saturday, October 25, 6pm: Halloween Party.
Friday, November 14, 6-10pm: Game Night.
Sunday, November 16, after worship: “World” ministry area meeting.
Sunday, November 23, after worship: first rehearsal for December 14 Lucia Pageant.
Stay tuned to the newsletter and website for details.
