Weekly News (Page 3)

Download the PDF This passage is most timely today, considering what is being thrown at us from south of the border. In my heart, I find it hard to love someone, who has been a trusted ally.  Luke 6:27-36, often referred to as the “Love Your Enemies” passage, is a radical call from Jesus to not only love those who love us, but to actively extend love, kindness, and forgiveness even to those who might be considered our enemies, challenging our…

Download the PDF here Feb. 12, 2025 1 Corinthians 15:12-27 is a powerful passage where Paul forcefully argues the centrality of Jesus’ resurrection to the Christian faith, emphasizing that without the resurrection, the Christian message loses its meaning and hope, essentially rendering the whole gospel “in vain.”.  Key points to reflect on:The foundation of Christian hope: The resurrection is presented as the cornerstone of Christian belief, offering assurance of eternal life beyond death and providing believers with a reason to persevere…

Download the PDF Jan. 29, 2025Luke 4:14-21 presents a powerful moment where Jesus, in his hometown synagogue, declareshis mission by reading from Isaiah 61, proclaiming that “the Spirit of the Lord is upon me”to bring good news to the poor, release the oppressed, and proclaim freedom to the captives, essentially announcing himself as the fulfillment of prophecy and the Messiah who will actively bring liberation to the marginalized; however, this message is met with resistance and anger from his own people, highlighting…

January 23, 2025 – Weekly News Download the PDF Reflections on Amos 8:4-12 Jeanne Barnes Too often you wake up early to the sound of the local newscaster telling you of global, national and local events of the previous day. You catch up on the earthquakes, the floods, and the loss of life around you. You even watch the bottom ticker tape for a report on stocks you’ve invested in. The radio is blaring; your mind is racing. You buzz…

Download the Weekly News in PDF Jan. 15, 20251 Corinthians 12:1-14 (scripture reading for this Sunday) is about the unity and diversity of the body of Christ, and how all members should care for each other.Key ideas God at work.1Corinthians 12:4-6 Thank You A big thank you to the 10 people who helped on Tuesday morning, (Jan. 7)! Banners and flowers were changed as was the bulletin board. All Christmas décor was taken down and put back into storage. A…

Download the PDF What is Epiphany? Epiphany is a Christian holiday celebrated on January 6th, 12 days after Christmas in the Gregorian calendar, marking the end of the Christmas holiday.What does Epiphany mean, and what does the day commemorate?Epiphany, meaning “manifestation” or “showing forth”, has been celebrated since the end of the second century, before the Christmas holiday was established. It is commonly known as Twelfth Night, Twelfth Day, or the Feast of Epiphany. It is also called Theophany or…

Download the PDF here Dec. 31, 2024 Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. — John 14:27 (NIV)As the Christmas festivities come to an end and the twinkling lights begin to fade, find a peaceful space to unwind and contemplate the lessons learned and the blessings received during this special time. Feel yourself relax and…

Download the PDF here Dec. 24, 2024The fifth candle of Advent, also known as the Christ candle, is a white candle that is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Jesus. It is usually placed in the center of the Advent wreath and is larger than the other candles. The Christ candle symbolizes the light and purity of Jesus Christ, and represents the hope, peace, joy, and love that he brings. It is a reminder of the prophecy that…

Download the PDF Dec. 18, 2024 What Does the Fourth Advent Candle Stand for? In contemporary Western Christianity, the typical Advent wreath has four candles inside an evergreen wreath. Each one is lit during a new week of Advent and has a particular meaning attached to it. Candle 1 is purple, known as “the Prophet’s Candle,” and it stands for hope. Candle 2 is purple, known as “the Bethlehem Candle,” and stands for peace. Candle 3 is pink or rose-colored, known as “the Shepherd’s Candle,” and stands for…

Download the PDF Dec. 11, 2024 The third week of Advent The third week of the season is characterized by joy. The third candle lit during this week is usually pink, signifying the joy that comes from the nearing celebration of Christmas. Often referred to as the “Shepherd’s Candle,” it emphasizes the joy announced by the angels at Jesus’ birth.This week serves as a vibrant reminder for Christians to experience and share joy amidst life’s challenges and to celebrate the…

Download PDF Dec. 4, 2024 The second week of Advent The second week of Advent centers on the theme of peace. The second candle, often referred to as the “Bethlehem Candle,” is lit to symbolize the peace that Christ brings to the world. This week encourages believers to reflect on the idea of peace in their lives and communities. The focus during the second week is not only on the peace of Christ but also on how individuals can contribute…

Download the PDF Nov. 27, 2024The first week of Advent marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical season. Advent Sunday is what many Christians call the first day of Advent. The theme of the first week of Advent is hope. This theme emphasizes the hope Christians have in the coming of Christ, reminiscent of the anticipation of the Messiah in the Old Testament. It is also a time of reflection and prayer, as individuals and communities prepare their hearts and…