Loading...The Lord called Samuel again, a third time. And he got up and went to Eli, and said, ‘Here I am, for you called me.’ Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. I Samuel 3:8
This Sunday we hear about Samuel's call to serve God. Samuel hears God calling, but because Samuel did not yet know God, Samuel thinks Eli is calling him instead.
This passage has caused me to think about how we hear the voice of God. I know at times, I have heard sentences clearly spoken, not necessarily aloud, but inside my being. Are they really the voice of God or just my own musings? That's always the question.
There have been times when things come out of my mouth in conversation with another person and I'm so surprised by what I said. It's like the message is from God and not only for the person I spoke it to, but also for me.
Sometimes another person, friend or stranger, speaks to us and we know in our being that we are hearing an important message.
How do you hear the voice of God?
I am grateful for our community of Nativity and St. Stephen's, because I also believe that having a community is important to confirming what we've heard. Our community helps us discern the voice of God and our community is also a vehicle for the voice of God to speak.
May we like young Samuel, hear the voice of God and answer with eagerness, "Here I am."
Blessings as you finish your week.
Love, Rebecca+
Announcements
Grow In Faith Together (G.I.F.T)
Parlor People, Sundays, 11am – noon.
January 7 – 21, February 4 & 11.
Rebecca will lead a discussion on Preparing to Become the Beloved Community: A Long-term Commitment to Racial Healing, Reconciliation and Justice.
The Beloved Community document is available here: /digital_faith/documents/3245812
Today, we will look at Telling the Truth. Next week, we will discuss Proclaiming the Dream.
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Godly Play is today and Jan. 21 & 28.
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At Church of the Nativity and St. Stephen
We are starting our prayer list over again. If you have a name you’d like for the list, let Michele know at 717-567-6514 or chnatss@pa.net.
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Taize’ Tuesdays, 5:00pm.
Twenty minutes of Centering Prayer followed by a Taize’ service.
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Help count the weekly offering.
Volunteers will be partnered with a Vestry member. You must sign a confidentiality statement. Training will be offered. Please let Wendy Day know if you are interested.
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Parish Movie Night, Friday, January 19, 6pm.
Pizza provided. Bring snacks and drinks. “Because of Winn-Dixie” is the movie to be shown. Rated PG.
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Upcoming Meetings
Thursday, January 15, 7pm, Newport Anti-Racism League, viewing of the movie Selma
Wednesday, January 24, 6:30pm, Diocesan Eliminating Racism Task Group
Thursday, January 25, 2pm, Harrisburg Convocation Clergy Council Meeting
Thursday, January 25, 4:30pm, Finance Committee Meeting
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Donations Being Accepted for new organ!
Of the $24,000 needed to pay for the new organ, we have received donations of $4,880, leaving just $19,120 left. Envelopes are available at the back of the church for you to use to contribute to this effort.
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During 2018, we will be celebrating baptism on May 20 and November 4.
Let Rebecca know if you or someone you know would like to be baptized on any of these days.
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Epipha-tea, Saturday, Feb. 3 at the home of Marion Fluchere.
Women and girls are invited. Bring something to share.
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Join Us For Breakfast!
Men's breakfast - every Wednesday, 9am, Espresso Yourself Cafe.
Women's breakfast – every Wednesday, 9am, Bitting’s
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The choir practices Wednesdays at 10:15am.
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From the Diocese
Thanks for reaching out to Catholic Charities Immigration and Refugee.
They are currently all set on back packs for the children, but could use some other supplies if you wish to donate them.
Alarm clocks (electric), Twin mattress pads, Laundry detergent, Brooms and dustpans, Bathroom and Kitchen cleaners, Scissors, Can openers and Shower curtains, liners and hooks.
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Diocesan Staff in Residence, Wednesday, January 17, 11am - 4:30pm, St. Andrew's In the Valley, 4620 Linglestown Rd, Harrisburg.
Let Rebecca know if you'd like to visit with the Diocesan staff on this day. Here is the schedule. Everyone is welcome.
11 - noon - Bible Study, Noon - 12:30 – Eucharist, 12:30 - 1:00 - Bring your Own Lunch, 1:00 - 4:30pm - Individual appointments or general conversation with Diocesan staff.
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Community Events and Opportunities for Service
Brownies Needed
Bags of brownie mix are available in the undercroft for anyone who would like to bake them for Helping Kids.
