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Epiclesis... An Ancient-Future Faith Community |
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Lent, 2012 |
Monday, March 19 |
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Word and Sign | |
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Greetings!
 We've been walking through Lent-- taking a journey together-- pondering biblical covenants and how they point to and connect to the cross.
Last week, in a closer look at the curious case of Moses and the snakes in the desert, we noticed that there were covenantal aspects to the story. Where? God gave a "word" ("...and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live"), and there was a "sign" (the bronze snake on a pole).
Now, how does that covenantal, even sacramental act, point to the cross? What does the snake on a pole have to do with the Savior on the cross?
Well, the similarities and contrasts are deep and rich (Augustine, by the way, was the Church Father who described the bronze serpent episode as a sacrament), but here's at least one breathtaking similarity:
Christ's work on Calvary, the New Covenant written in His own body and blood, also featured a "sign" (Jesus' being lifted up on the cross), and there was a "word." Just where was the word part of the covenant?
It was the Word Himself, the Word made flesh. Jesus was in and of Himself (in semet ipso), He was and is, the New Covenant word and sign. Hallelujah, what a Savior.
PS: A pastoral note for you: We have two concerns to share, the memorial service plans for Walker Robinett (see the story and details just below), and a call for prayer for Kathleen Ahrens. Kathleen had surgery on Monday, March 19, after a terrible fall that resulted in multiple broken bones. Let's remember Kathleen, and also the Robinetts, in our prayers this week. |
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In This eNewsletter Issue |
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Sunday Worship...
10:30 AM
The Carmichael Chapel (on the campus of the Carmichael Seventh Day Adventist Church) 4600 Winding Way Sacramento, CA 95841
General Information Line: (916) 572-9113 
Epiclesis is a Constant Contact 2011 All Star Award Winner |
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 Walker Robinett Memorial
Details for next week's service...
The Robinett family has announced these plans: The memorial service for Walker will be next Tuesday, March 27, at 12 noon, at the Mount Vernon Mortuary on Greenback Lane (in their large chapel on the West end of the property). Click here for a link to their website with more details, to sign an online guestbook, or post some memories of Walker. Let's continue to pray for Janelle, Patty, and the rest of the family as they grieve.
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 Mandatum Novum
Maundy Thursday at Epiclesis...
Make plans to join us on Maundy Thursday, April 5, at 7 PM, at the Carmichael Chapel for our commemoration of the Last Supper and the "mandatum novum", or the "new commandment", that Jesus gave to His followers. Please mark your calendar and bring a friend, too-- it's going to be a memorable evening of Scripture, singing, quiet prayer and reflection.
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Spirit Storm
Mark Your Calendars for April 15...
So April 15 is tax day, right? Or it usually is (I think we get two extra days this year). And April 15 was the day the Titanic went down (always thought the date was a bit ironic). But this year, Sunday, April 15 has another significance: Our community of faith is gathering at the home of the Sutters, at 5 PM, for a Missions Spirit Storm. (Remember that we decided to re-name "brain storm"). Here's what we're going to do: First, it's an "Eating Meeting", as Melody says, so bring something tasty to share. Next, plan on sharing what you think God may be saying to us about mission efforts in 2012.
And here's the most important thing: Between now and then, be earnestly praying, asking God for His direction and guidance. Missions isn't a program at Epiclesis; it's one of the active tasks of the church that we do together-- all of us. So, let's discern and plan and Spirit Storm together, too! See you on the 15th at 5 PM.
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An Ancient-Future Quote to Note
Death Isn't Terrible Anymore
 | | Athanasius |
Death is destroyed. The cross has triumphed over it. It no longer has any power but is truly dead. This is why all of Christ's disciples despise death and no longer fear it. They take the offensive against it. And by the sign of the cross and by faith in Christ they trample it down as dead. Before the Savior came, death was terrible to the saints. Everyone wept for the dead as though they perished. But now that the Savior has risen, death isn't terrible anymore. For everyone who believes in Christ tramples over death. They would rather die than deny their faith in Christ. For they know that when they die they aren't destroyed, but actually begin to live. Through the Resurrection they become incorruptible. For the devil, who once maliciously rejoiced in death, is the only one truly dead now that we are relieved of death's pains. As proof of this, people are cowards and terrified of death before they believe Christ. But when they have turned to Christ's faith and teaching, they despise death so much that they even eagerly rush up to it. They testify of Christ's victorious Resurrection.
-Athanasius
 Check out a daily Scripture verse and a word from the Church Fathers, or find out more information about the Fathers, by visiting The Chapel of the Ancient-Future Faith Network.
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Epiclesis Website Tip of the Week:
Did you know that you can give to the ministry of Epiclesis right from the website? Our safe and secure link allows folks to give with confidence, especially those who are out of town. Have you tried it? Please consider making a gift today. Know that that we are very grateful for your tax deductible donation and that you have our pledge before God to use His resources with integrity and great care. |
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