On Trinity Sunday (May 31) we transition to a new church season.  The first scripture reading we’ll hear is Genesis 1, which tells the story of creation like it’s a seven day worship service, full of call and response: “God said, let there be light.  And there was light … God said, let the earth put forth vegetation …  And it was so.” God speaks, and creation appears: the dome in the sky, swarms of living creatures, cattle, creeping things.

Are we attentive to God’s creative work?  Do we get boxed in?  Always the same four walls, the same four inch smartphone screen, limiting our perspectives?  This summer’s scripture readings are about getting out into the world.  In June, we’ll hear how Jesus sent his disciples from town to town as emissaries of hope, to ask hospitality from strangers.  In July, Jesus draws our attention to the earth, to seeds and wheat as signs of God’s power.  Paul, in our readings from Romans 8, hears the groaning of a creation longing to be set free.  

We’ll hear mention of eagles, doves, serpents, sheep, wolves, snow, rocks, weeds, mountains, meadows, roaring waves, running water, deep silence, and a bounty of bread in a remote wilderness.  The scriptures lay bare the troubles and pain in this world, but also its rich beauty and possibilities.

Our summer worship prayers and songs will convey these themes.  We’ll use simple and earthy melodies from Irish, Appalachian, Muskogee and other traditions.  On some Sundays, if you’re there a bit early (around 9:55) you can sing a few extra hymns before the bell rings.  Requests can be sent ahead of time to Jung Jin.  We invite you to share your musical gifts, whatever your skill level, both instrumental and vocal.  Perhaps you could sing or play for prelude, offertory, or during one of the hymns?  Here’s a signup sheet.  Contact Jung Jin for ideas or if you’re not sure how you might contribute. 
 
Fellowship events include our festive and relaxing backyard cookout on June 12, beginning at 6:30pm.  We’ll provide burgers, veggie burgers and condiments; you’re invited to bring side dishes, beverages and desserts.  Would there be interest in a movie night, perhaps in July?  Talk to Pastor Kate.  And stay tuned for information on a birding outting and camping next Fall.  As discussed in “Our Path,” in our tech-laden world it’s good to get outside.  

We’re exploring a new monthly opportunity of a social event (Friday or Saturday evening?), combined with a topic: In baptism, we’re asked to: “proclaim Christ through word and deed, care for others and the world God made, and work for justice and peace.”  How do we do that at this time, with what’s going on in our world?  With our busy lives?  In the discussion of “Our Path,” we talked about becoming more engaged with the needs of neighbors.   What small steps can we take? If you might be interested, talk to one of the pastors.

Our “Called to Care” partner for extra giving in early summer is Rios de Agua Viva, our sister congregation in El Salvador.

Our “Happy Hour Book” this summer is Tortilla Flat by John Steinbeck, a funny, short novel by one of our most famous local authors.  It’s about impoverished people living near Monterey.  We’ll talk about California lifestyles, social class and spiritual themes.  Contact Pastor Bernt if you’d like to join the discussion, or need a copy of the book.

Mark your calendars for June 28, which will be our congregational meeting after worship.  Business will include election of new council members and an update to endowment policy bylaws.  Also, a group is planning fixups and updates to our backyard area; we hope to share plans.


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