Church

Congregation Leaving the Reformed Church in Nuenen

Vincent van Gogh

Painting, Oil on Canvas

Nuenen, The Netherlands: January - February, 1884

Location unknown

(Stolen from the Van Gogh Museum December 7, 2002)

The word "church" is perhaps one of the most hackneyed words in the church. See what I mean? What do we mean when we use the word? For example, here are some frequently heard occurrences:

• This Sunday, I'm going to church. 
• I just received a letter in the mail from the church. 
• The church is developing a new program. 
• We are members of the church. 
• I don't feel like getting up for church.
• I love my church!

This week's Faith Formation Forum will explore what we mean by the word church.  We will consider the impact of our assumptions and be challenged to consider alternative understandings. Church-as- destination is quite different from church-as-mission. The former conjures images and ideas of place, building, and institution. The latter encourages thoughts of action, movement, and incarnation. 

This may seem a bit confusing at first review. But don't give up or dismiss deeper reflection in the days ahead as we prepare for our gathering this Sunday at 8:45 AM.  I'm looking forward to our time together again. (I had a blast last Sunday.) I have just a few follow-up thoughts to share about conversion as well.

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Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Prayer of the Day

Almighty and most merciful God,

your bountiful goodness fills all creation.

Keep us safe from all that may hurt us,

that, whole and well in body and spirit,

we may with grateful hearts

accomplish all that you would have us do,

through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen

Readings

2 Kings 5:1–3, 7–15c

Psalm 111

2 Timothy 2:8–15

Luke 17:11–19

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On a personal note: We are moving to Chambersburg over the next several days. Tomorrow is packing day. Thursday is loading day. Friday is unloading day. Saturday is unpacking day (the first of many!). Please keep us in your prayers. Thanks for the many offers of help and assistance. Your kindness is a blessing. Everything is coming together nicely so far. The moving company is taking care of the heavy lifting and transportation. Thanks be to God!