Faith is a living, bold trust in God's grace, so certain of God's favor that it would risk death a thousand times trusting in it. Such confidence and knowledge of God's grace makes you happy, joyful and bold in your relationship to God and all creatures. The Holy Spirit makes this happen through faith. Because of it, you freely, willingly and joyfully do good to everyone, serve everyone, suffer all kinds of things, love and praise the God who has shown you such grace. - Martin Luther


Friday, October 23, 2015

A BIG Weekend


This Sunday, October 25th, is a big day in the life of the congregation. We'll celebrate Reformation Sunday, singing some favorite hymns, giving thanks for the good news of the Gospel of Jesus and all those the Spirit uses to call people to faithfulness (Martin Luther included!).
Two of the youth of the congregation will publicly affirm their baptism during worship at 10:00am, and profess their faith. It's a big deal, and definitely a day for the church community to gather around them for prayer and support. When an individual is baptized, the assembly is asked this question: "People of God, do you promise to support name and pray for him/her in his/her new life in Christ?"
And the assembly responds: We do.
Then, after the baptism, the congregation addresses the newly baptized: We welcome you into the body of Christ and into the mission we share: join us in giving thanks and praise to God and bearing God's creative and redeeming word to all the world.
That baptismal journey continues, and Affirmation of Baptism (aka Confirmation) is a big step on that journey, when a young person becomes an adult member of the community of faith. Don't miss it!
There will be a reception, with cake, and a Reformation Sunday photo booth, after worship.

Sunday afternoon we hold our annual Trunk or Treat. It's always a ton of fun, and a great way to reach out into the neighborhood. Trunk or treating will happen in the parking lot, and there will be games, crafts, and less sugary snacks in the social hall, 4:30-6:00pm. (Family-friendly) costumes are encouraged!

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