Grace Waves

Friends:

If the church does not recapture its poetic zeal, it will become an irrelevant social club without moral and spiritual authority. If the church does not participate actively in the struggle for peace and for economic and racial justice, it will forfeit the loyalty of millions and cause people everywhere to say that it has atrophied its will. But if the church will free itself from the shackles of a deadening status quo, and, recovering its great historic mission, will speak and act fearlessly and insistently in terms of justice and peace, it will enkindle the imagination of mankind and fire the souls of men, imbuing them with a glowing and ardent love for truth, justice, and peace.  People far and near will know the church as a great fellowship of love that provides light and bread for lonely travelers at midnight. —Dr. Martin Luther King

Upcoming Forums:

• Sunday – The Pope, Martin Luther on Poverty and Faithful Response/Part II:  Join us for another engaging conversation in which you will learn Constructive Actions we can make to address the economic doldrums and impoverishment cycles we have been experiencing.
• February 2 – The Sermon on the Mount:  Inspiration, Catalyst, Challenge
• February 9 – Racism/’Many Rivers’:  Those present at last week’s Forum committed themselves to a 3 Session Dialogue examining the dynamics of racism and economic exploitation today.   All in the congregation are invited to participate as we engage how people of faith can make a healing difference.  Focus Questions or Topics you want to discuss can be sent to me in advance.

We are having a Crab Feed  on Saturday, March 1 at 5:00 pm!   6 volunteers have signed on – we need a full crew of 12 people.  Fliers will be ready for you online at our website (check highlights on our HOME page in the next few days) and at church on Sunday.  Invite your friends!!
Our congregational Annual Meeting follows worship on February 9.  Please prepare by reading the By-law changes in advance (check with the office for a copy).
CCIH/Contra Costa Interfaith Housing asks for your support in providing Kitchen Goods for 3 new families they are housing.  A list will be circulated with details and on which you can sign up.
First Friday Films presents “The Happy Movie” on Friday, February 7 at 6:30 pm.  Come enjoy and experience Happy People from all around the world!
Keep in your prayers:  Joan, Rich, Liz, Barry and Cameron, Brock, the Council, our Early Communion Class, Pr. Margareta, Ruth, Nette, Bob, Gen, Sandy, Agnes; those facing major decisions;  those in mourning;  those seeking employment, shelter and food; the people of Syria, Afghanistan, and Yemen; those living with addictions.

The virtuous attend to their own duties;  the virtueless know only how to levy duties and burdens upon other people. —Tao te Ching #79

Epiphany Blessings,  Pr. Steve