Dear St. Stephen’s Family,
We are grateful these days for the returning home of many who were evacuated due to the wildfires. We are grateful for the favorable weather that has enabled the firefighters to gain more control over the fires to prevent further loss of people’s homes. We are grateful for those who are doing that work and for all the help that has been offered throughout our County. We are praying for comfort and strength for those who have lost their homes and for those who are still evacuated. We are praying for continued favorable weather and conditions so that the firefighters work can be completed. We are praying for courage and strength for all who are offering themselves to help those who have been affected.
We are all reminded this Sunday to do all we can to commit ourselves to following God’s ways and seeking after God’s will. Especially these days when we live in a time when truth is under unprecedented attacks, and there are so many other ways of falsehood being listened to and followed. Securing ourselves to God’s ways as the way to Life lived well and in right relationship with each other and all of creation. I am looking forward to sharing God’s Word with you this Sunday and celebrating the gif of God’s grace for all people in Holy Communion.
Let’s continue to join our spirits in worship here online anytime on Sunday. It is so important to offer ourselves to God in this way these days. I know you will find it a comfort and blessing. Previous weeks are recorded as well. Please find attached, the bulletin cover artwork, scripture readings & prayers in the Celebrate.
I hope you are able to experience God’s Spirit of Fellowship, Love, Grace and Peace through our Zoom bible studies led by Pastor Jim. Bible studies are Thursdays at 11am and 7pm. Same Zoom link.
Please let us know if there are other ways you see that our church can be supportive.
Thank you for your continued faithfulness in your financial giving back to God through our church. Please remember to either give your offering through the mail, through our website donation option, signing up for monthly electronic giving, OR if you just want to get out of the house, then come by the church and drop it off in the mailbox in a secure slot called “Incoming mail”! Office hours are M-Th 8:30-2:30. If you come during those times, you may also want to step into the sanctuary for some prayer and quiet time with God. We would love to see you. Our library is also open to you with quite a variety to choose from.
Thank you to those of you who have been sending us notes and messages of encouragement and support. They help keep us hopeful and joyful! We always love to hear how things are going.
Other notes:
- If any of you would like to participate, we are open to a few people Reading Scripture and offering the Prayers of Intercession from the Celebrate page. Or if you would just like to come to worship – Saturdays 11:00 am. Call Leslie at 476-4700 to schedule your spot.
- Habitat for Humanity hopes to resume. Lunch will be needed for 10 volunteers. Tuesday, September 25 at 10:30 am. sandwiches, fruit, chips, cookies. Reply to this email or call office if you might provide one of these items.
Peace,
Leslie Lapp
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