We celebrate the Eucharist at 10, as usual. The first reading details the thirst of the Israelites in the desert and how God told Moses to strike the rock so it would flow living water. The second reading is a beloved "Christ hymn," preceded by this wonderful line: "Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus." I wonder what that would be like, and what it would look like in daily life. The gospel recounts yet another instance of the religious leaders' questioning Jesus' authority. For the full texts, click here.

We'll have refreshments after the service, and then we'll gather for a Congregational Forum in the multipurpose room downstairs. Young people and adults together will look at some resources for learning this fall and make decisions about which to try first. This is a new way for us to engage in Christian formation outside of the liturgy, and we'll see how it goes.

 

This is the third week for students at our school, Grace Montessori. We have four classrooms of 3-6 year olds and one classroom of 6-10 year olds. The children are settling into school routines and enjoying the slightly cooler weather. At the playground recently, the young ones enjoyed hula hoops, digging in the mulch, and sliding down the slide. The older ones, who play in the Arts Park behind the Baum School, can sometimes be seen hanging upside down from the trees! To learn more about our school, click here.

 

 

This week, the Literacy Center of Allentown begins its fall semester of classes. People studying for their GED (General Education Diploma) will meet downstairs for three mornings a week throughout the school year. Last June Bob House and I went to the Literacy Center's graduation ceremony--the stories the graduates told about realizing they needed to complete their education, and then finding the discipline and assistance to actually do it, were incredibly heartwarming. These graduates are far better equipped than they were before to find appropriate employment and to continue their educations. For more information on the Literacy Center, click here.

 

Sunday, October 9, is our annual visit from one of our bishops. This year, as last, it is Bishop Jack Croneberger. He will preside at the Eucharist and preach, we will have a light luncheon and time to converse with him, and he will meet with the vestry. To prepare for this celebration, Chuck Milostiz is organizing the cleaning of the worship space. All willing helpers will gather at 9:30 on Saturday, October 1. Please email Chuck if you can help.

Tuesday, October 4, is the Feast of St. Francis. Our school celebrates this day with a Pet Blessing, and the people of Grace are certainly invited. It's at 9:30, Tuesday, October 4, in the playground of Grace Montessori at 8th and Linden (behind the parking garage). Bring your pet or just yourself, praise God for animals and all creation, and delight in our children and their parents and pets. If it rains, we cancel the event.