Saturday, July 7, 2012

This Week at Peace - July 8, 2012





   
Peacemakers,

I have reflected a lot this week on what it means to build a community of peace, as we say in our mission statement.   How far can I (and we) go in expressing personal opinions before we begin to crowd out someone else who has a different view?    What is the right spirit and forum for discussions of a controversial nature?    How can we as a church model the kind of respectful dialogue that creates space for healthy discussion?    I return to the often-quoted line “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things, love.”   

Jim Padula and the other GA commissioners will be completing their work in Pittsburgh in a few hours.    It appears that this assembly has done a good job of taking moderate stances.   Many have said that too much more change at this juncture would make unity difficult.

Tomorrow we read Mark 6:1-13 the story of Jesus’ loss of power when the people question his authority.   He then sends out disciples in twos, telling them if they are not welcomed to shake the dust off their feet and move on.   We welcome a new member and affiliate, both under 25 years of age!

Don’t forget that we have a second fund-raiser for Cedarkirk scholarships for our children and youth, who will be serving lemonade and washing cars during lively learning.    We appreciate the generosity of this church.

See attached a flyer and registration form for Peace’s first VBS, a week-end of fun at the end of July.    Please print and share, or pick up copies tomorrow at church.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth
 
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