Grace Waves

Friends:

We most need to pray when we least feel like praying.  Even when we seem unable to pray as we ought, we can trust the Spirit prays within us with sighs too deep for words, for the prayer of the heart depends not on our temperament or natural capacities but on the Spirit’s presence and gift meant for each of us. —Catherine of Siena

Our St. Francis Animal Blessing and Pet Festival was marvelous:  Worship was outstanding with all the guest musicians and singers; Fr. Vince Mesi the new Director at San Damiano Retreat Center joined us and sang;  a fine spirit permeated the afternoon; our community guests were so appreciative; more delightful music, delicious food, and the stories people shared with me about their pets and the dogs working with the blind, with children, with the elderly, with those with Alzheimer’s and working in units of local hospitals were very moving.  What a blessing to all of us human ones too!  Thanks to Greg and all the organizers and contributors.  “Only a ‘heart open to love’ can see God!”
We celebrate St. Luke’s Healing Prayer this Sunday—a day to receive healing blessings for ourselves, loved ones and our world.
Our Forums this Sunday will be our second session on Healthy Self Care—Honoring the Temple You Are!  What keeps you energized, aware, in tune with life and feeling connected with God and community?  You will receive insights, resources and encouragement.  Join in.
Please keep in your prayers:  Maili, Annegret, Margaret Beeler and her mother Betty, Derek, Juliana, Ari, Yael, all the suffering children and those who believe violence can cure social ills, for our friends in Nicaragua experiencing another severe drought; those seeking employment, those longing for the healing of relationships; for the earth, air, water, forests and animals of this beautiful earth our home, for saints, for the people of Hong Kong, the Middle East and the Congo, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
If you wish to join Charlene for prayer and music with the seniors at Danville Rehabilitation this Sunday at 11 am—you are most welcomed.  Conversation with these Seasoned Souls and the singing of old familiar hymns is a true gift to all of us.
Rabbi Dan Goldblatt and I are co-teaching a class based on the exciting new book, Jesus First Century Rabbiby Rabbi David Zaslow.  (Copies of the book are available this Sunday.)  The class will have four sessions and will be interactive and engaging and embrace the essence of the book as we seek to deepen understanding and connections between our Christian and Jewish communities.
The four sessions are all on Tuesdays and are: October 28^th, November 4^th, 11^th, and 18^th at 7:30 pm.
In the final session on Tuesday, November 18^th, Dan and I will interview and dialogue with the author, Rabbi David Zaslow and share questions that emerge from the class.
The cost of the class is $50 and includes a copy of the book ($24), entrance to the public event and any other materials for the class.  (The Men’s Brotherhood from Beth Chaim has decided to underwrite the cost for anyone who would appreciate assistance.  Simply notify Pr. Steve to receive a scholarship.) All sessions will be held at Beth Chaim Congregation, 1800 Holbrook Drive, Danville.  One can register for the class by calling either Peace Lutheran at 648-7000 or Beth Chaim at 736-7146. – or signing up on Sunday.
Shoe Box Ministry:  Anticipated dates for those who wish to Volunteer to assist Nette:  Wrapping the Gifts – Monday, Nov. 10, 10 – Noon (please bring your own scissors); Packing the Boxes – Saturday, Nov. 22 beginning at 11 am.  2 – 6 people are needed… no more.  Youth Group members can certainly be involved.  Please let the Office know if you want to help.  Carpooling can be arranged.   Both activities will be at Nette’s home in Concord.
The Embodied Prayer Series at San Damiano continues to be an energizing blessing.  If you wish to join in a class at any time, you can participate on any or all of the next 3 Wednesdays at 7:00 pm.
Inequality and Faith:  An Interfaith Path to Wholeness will be presented at San Damiano on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 9:30 to 3:30 which includes lunch.  I-SRV/the Interfaith Community of the San Ramon Valley is sponsoring this event.  Presenters include:  Rabbi Dan, Iftekhar Hai, Ron Elsdon and myself.  Amar Khalsa our Sikh musician friend will lead the music for the day.  The cost is $35.  To register go to: www.sandamiano.org.

SLEEP FASTER WE NEED THE BEDS!
—An old Yiddish Proverb)

Blessings,  Pr. Steve