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Grant us, Lord, not to be anxious about earthly things, but to love things heavenly; and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to hold fast to those that shall endure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Collect for Proper 20, p. 234, Book of Common Prayer
Our Collect this Sunday seems especially appropriate for right now. There are so many earthly things about which to be anxious - Covid-19, racial justice issues, climate issues, a national election and our normal day-to-day challenges. Our prayer encourages us to shift our focus from these things to things heavenly. It's definitely easier said than done, isn't it?
One thing I was taught many years ago, was to try to keep my thoughts more in the present time. Do I have enough to take care of my needs for today, for instance? Am I healthy today? Am I doing what I need to do to participate in life today? Am I doing my spiritual practices to keep me close to God today?
Many, if not all, of our worries will pass away. Eventually Covid-19 will not be the threat it is today. Hopefully we will have the perseverence and will to address injustice. The election will be decided.
What we can hold on to is our faith in God. We have spiritual practices that work for us. We have a faith community we can rely upon, not only to help us, but also to work with in making things better in our community. We are encouraged to keep our focus in the right and life-giving place.
Blessings as you finish your week.
Love, Rebecca+
Announcements
Today we observe Latinx History Month.
Prayerfully consider what you will pledge to contribute to the ministry of The Church of the Nativity and St. Stephen for 2021.
All pledges should be turned in by October 4.
Vestry Meeting, Wednesday, September 23, 1pm.
Rebecca can bring communion to you.
Please be in touch with her at 717-567-6514 or 717-433-1556 and she can arrange a time and talk how to do this safely.
Newport Anti-Racism League, Oct. 1, 6pm
Movie Night in the yard, Nativity, Oct. 3, 7pm
Parlor People
We will meet in person in the yard and via Zoom through November 1 and discuss the topics in the Democracy Values & the 2020 Election: A Reflection Guide for Faith Communities. Today Kay Cramer leads the discussion on Protecting God’s Creation: Climate Justice for our Children and World. Next week - Loving our Immigrant Neighbors led by Rebecca.
Please include the following in your daily prayers.
Wendy, Megan, David, Margo, Raymond, Alicia, Dana, Tootser, Kate, Sue, Mike, Colton, Ben, Serena, Scott, Marcia, Jennifer, Brenda, Sean, Amanda, David, Meeta, Jim, Danielle, Anthony, Lois, Dan, the Van Orden family, Ginger, Van, James, Michelle, Frank, Rhonda, Donna, Erin, Paul, Thomas, Linda, Jake, the Nissly Family, Rich and Lesley.
Celebrate Seasons of Creation Sept. 1 – Oct. 4
Your most recent mailing included a booklet on Season of Creation 2020: Renewing, repairing and restoring our commitments to God, to one another and to all of creation.
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets Thursday, September 24, 10am.
Bring your projects and also learn how to knit or crochet. Please also wear a mask.
Newport Farmer’s Market, Noon – 4pm, September 27, October 25 & November 22
Plans continue for a monthly farmer’s market adjacent to our parking lot. There will be up to ten vendors. The market is sponsored by Friends of Newport.
Perry County Area Agency on Aging Free Wellness Programs.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, Sept. 14 – Nov. 5, Mon. & Thur., 6 – 7pm, In Person or Zoom, Senior Center, New Bloomfield
Tai Chi for Arthritis, Sept. 14 – Nov. 18, Mon. & Wed., 6:30 – 7:30pm, In Person Only, Messiah Lutheran Church, Elliottsburg
Tai Chi for Arthritis, Sept. 29 – Nov. 19, Tues. & Thurs., 9am – 10am, In Person or Zoom, Cornerstone Christian Church, Duncannon
Everyone MUST pre-register @717-582-5128. No Walk-Ins and masks required.
