St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
Tidings from St. Matthew's
January 5, 2014
     
                      A Prayer for the New Year

                                           At the beginning of the day
                              we seek your countenance among us, O God,
                             in the countless forms of creation all around us
                                               in the sun's rising glory
                                      in the face of friend and stranger.
                                   Your Presence within every presence
                                             your Light within all light
                                        your Heart at the heart of this moment.
                               May the fresh light of morning wash our sight
                                               that we may see your Life
                                                    in every life this day.


                                                                      - John Philip Newell
                                                                     Praying With the Earth



            Baptism of Mattya Lee: Sunday, January 5
                       Bernon, Connie, Zechariah & Mattya Lee 
By Bernon Lee

Hello fellow sojourners at St. Matthew's.  My name is Bernon Lee. My wife, Connie, and our kids, Mattya and Zechariah, have been in attendance at St. Matthew's for 2 years.  About a year into our time at the church, we decided to take the plunge and become members.

Several months ago, in the course of our weekly trek through the Scripture, Mattya signaled her desire to make a formal confession of faith (she didn't quite put it that way).
After several exchanges with Blair, it was decided that this should take place on January 5, 2014.  With Mattya, we look forward to sharing this important occasion with you, our spiritual community at St. Matthew's.  Thanks for your hospitality in receiving us.  We are excited and encouraged in joining you on your quest. 
  
     Nigerian Celebration & Liturgy: Sunday, January 12
                                                                                         aerial view of Lagos, Nigeria
 
Please join us January 12 at 9:15 for an all-ages forum in the Parish Hall to learn more about the history, art and music of Nigeria. At the 10:30 am service, we will launch a Nigerian liturgy, which will be used on 3 Sundays; January 12, 19 and 26.  Plan to stay after the 10:30 service for a festive reception featuring foods from Nigeria.

          Save the Date: Women's Retreat May 4 - 5

 

Titled, "Conversations Along the Way," the women of St. Matthew's will meet on the first weekend in May at the Gainey Center, in Owatonna, MN.  We will spend time on the spiritual practice of "story," and how our lives intersect with others and with the biblical narrative.  Weather permitting, we will also have time outside, and a restful, renewing time apart.  Please invite family or friends to join us.  More information will be coming soon!   

Looking Ahead: Calendar Highlights 
  • Reminder: No Children or Youth classes Jan. 5 or Jan. 12
  • January 4: Men's Retreat Planning, 9:00am 
  • January 12:  Nigerian Celebration 9:15am all ages learning hour, 10:30am service with Nigerian liturgy, Special reception with Nigerian foods following the service.
  • January 26:  All Parish Annual Meeting, 9:00am 

Please share your news and photos with us at:  [email protected]
 
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