Dear Beloved,

The liturgical year (a church calendar flow that helps us retell the story of God our Creator, Jesus our Leader, and the Holy Spirit our Guide) and special Sundays of celebration/remembrance and offerings bring me extra pauses for reflection, confession, connection, and growth. I am grateful for this rhythm and these times set aside in different ways. Perhaps you experience special seasons like Advent and Lent or special Sundays like One Great Hour of Sharing similarly or much differently - I’m grateful to be part of a congregation that affirms unity in diversity and strength in uniqueness.  

One of these upcoming Sundays on October 2nd is World Communion and Neighbors in Need. World Communion Sunday has been a favorite of mine for many years. It reminds me of our connection with all our siblings - all God’s beloved children all around the globe. We can learn about and pray with our Global Ministries Partners at www.globalministries.org.

In 2022, the Neighbors in Need “BEHOLD!” offering focuses on economic justice. I have so much to learn in this area. I am grateful that an opportunity to give through the United Church of Christ also helps me be more mindful and intentional in praying for neighbors and learning more ways we can live as faithful neighbors as we partner with all God’s beloved near and far. What a blessing that God always gives us opportunities for changing and being transformed for the growing of God’s beloved shalom for all!

    With gratitude and hope,

         Sarah

Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and withall your soul and with all your mind.’  This is the greatest and first commandment.

And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” 

Matthew 22:37-40