Glad Tidings for the Week of July 11, 2010

                               Becoming Good Samaritans
                                   "Caring for the Sick"

Healing is a wonderful gift to us humans. Most of us have experienced its power in some way. Whether the skillful application of a surgeon's scalpel, the wise diagnosis and prescribed meds of a family physician, the insight given by a wise counselor or the gentle kiss of a mom or dad on a bruised knee, many of us have experienced the wonder of healing. We know what it feels like to "bounce back" because of the concern and compassion of another. There are others, to be honest, who may still be waiting for the bounce. We all realize that being sick for a brief period of time can be an inconvenience. Yet, to be sick for an extended period of time can be, well, overwhelming. That is why the church is so important. Our life together is to be characterized by a readiness to bring hope, help and healing to one another, whether for the short term or long term. That is what it means to be a part of God's family. That is what it means to be a true neighbor. Jesus reveals this in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

This week we will again look at this remarkable story both in worship and in our Jammin July session. Our focus will be on caring for the sick. We are a community of faith formed by the grace and love of Jesus Christ, the "Great Physician." Therefore, whether we are a healing professional or a simple believer in the power of prayer, I know we all can be genuine vessels through which the healing gift of God can flow. Since this is communion Sunday, it will be a great opportunity to "experience" the healing grace and love of our Savior. Communion will be served by intinction this Sunday in all three worship services.

As we focus on being a healing community in the context of Holy Communion, you will be provided a very meaningful opportunity for prayer during the service. Anyone who would like to receive a simple prayer for healing during our communion service is invited to kneel for just a moment at the altar rail after you have received the communion elements. As you kneel, if you desire prayer for healing, simply cup your hands in front of you and one of our pastors will place a drop of oil upon your forehead. This has always been a symbol of God's healing grace, (see Psalm 23:5, James 5:14, Luke 10:34).
May we all grow more and more into the likeness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Through our brokenness and restoration we are becoming a healed and healing community.

With Joy,
Mike

Announcements

SPR Presents
"Supper in the Summer"
A Welcome to Isle of Hope Dinner!
Come see performances by church members, have a meal prepared by Katie Borges and get introduced to our new ministers and families!
When: July 14th @
6:30 PM
Cost: $6
Reservations can be made by calling the church office (355-8527) by July 11th.

ADULT MINISTRY PRESENTS
"Getting to Know them, Getting to Know All About Them"
Come meet Cindy & Mike Ricker and Jim, Amanda, Jackson & Dean Thomas Morrow
Tuesday, July 20th 11:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall
Sandwich with all the trimmings for just $6!
Join us for fun and fellowship!
Sign up in Sunday School or church office by July 18th.

The Sugar and Spice Shop for Day on the Island is seeking donations for supplies needed to make Pepper Jelly. We are in need of 5-10 lb Bags of Sugar, Certo Liquid Pectin and 8 oz. Jelly Jars (preferably with regular mouth lids and bands included). Please drop all items off in the Church office.
If you are growing bell peppers or jalapeno peppers in your garden and would like to make a donation, please contact Daniele Burgess @ 598-2067 or Catherine Smith @ 355-9493.

Missions & Outreach