Programs - Congregational Life

Loving Care            Nursery                   Angela Jones
Elementary Grades Upstairs                    Barbara Lee
7th-12th Grades     Main Floor               Pastor Debbie


 
Beginning in June, we will explore together in Bible Scripture and through our own Reflections about CHURCH.  We will gather around the concept of God being rooted and placed.  We will look at how Scripture and Culture have identified the CHURCH.  We will share how the theme intersects our own faith story.  Each Sunday will be its own complete lesson.  There will be a variety of people facilitating the class and hopefully some ways of seeing and becoming CHURCH.



“Study to let God see that you at least are a sound workman, with no need to be ashamed of the way you handle the word of Truth.” 
                                                              (Moffatt trans, II Timothy 2:15)

Most of you who read this will be Bible readers, either on a regular basis or from time to time.  Most of you will hear the Bible read quite often.  But how many of you study the Bible?

To read something is one thing.  To study something is another matter.  Study is defined as applying the mind to the acquisition of knowledge by reading, investigation, reflection, examination and analysis.  How does one go about that?  What are the tools one would use in Bible study?  How do you use the tools?

We are planning a class to begin in September which would acquaint you with the tools and methods used in Bible study.  This will not be a “drop in” class, but one which will require attendance for eight to ten consecutive Sundays.  

So here’s your chance to learn to use the tools of Bible study.  Let us know if you are interested.  Let us know if you are interested, space is limited to eight partcipants. You can call the church office, (360) 373-2444 and let Renae know.

This class may also be offered at a later time depending on the interest.

      Thursday Bible Study Groups
September - May

10:00 am The Women's Bible Study, led by Eleanor Ogg, will be off for the summer.  They will meet again in September 2008.   

1:00 pm Bible Study - This class meets twice a year for a study decided by the group, usually in the fall and in the spring.  It is taught by Pastor Debbie Little.  The current class titled "ACTS" is just finishing.  The group will meet again fall 2008.

Seasons and Colors of the Christian Year

The rhythm of the church year is enhanced by the melody of the lectionary which establishes a pattern of scriptures for the seasons. The year is set apart in these seasons which celebrate the life of Christ to inform, guide, and challenge our daily living.

The year begins with Advent four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day and Christmas. The color of the season is purple or royal blue which changes to white and gold on Christmas.

The twelve days following Christmas are the Christmas season celebrating the birth of Jesus to the arrival of the magi (kings) at the feast of the Epiphany (January 6). White and gold suggest joy and glory. The word epiphany means "manifestation of light."

From Epiphany until the beginning of Lent is the Season after Epiphany or Ordinary Time. The color green for growth and new life serves as a backdrop for stories of the call of the disciples and prophets and of the beginning of Jesus' ministry. We are reminded by God is with us in the ordinary seasons of our life.

Lent consists of the 40 days - not including Sundays before Easter. Lent is one of the oldest observances in the church's history. The 40 days of Lent compare to the 40 days that Jesus spent in the wilderness prior to his ministry. Over time, this period of fasting and reflection prior to Easter is common to many Christians. Purple supports a mood of penitence, or self examination. Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, invites us to prepare for a season of reflection which can take many forms. During the final week, Holy Week we remember the events of Jesus' last events of his life.

Easter celebrates the joy of Christ's resurrection. This joyous season lasts for 50 days, celebrating that Christ is risen, the powers of evil, fear, and death and destruction do no have the final word. The season reaches a wonderful conclusion with the feast of Pentecost, celebrating the presence of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the church. Traditionally bright reds, and oranges light up this day.

After Pentecost we return to Ordinary Time - the Season after Pentecost. It generally covers about half the year, taking us back to Advent where the cycle begins again. In this lengthy season, we remember again the presence of God with us in everyday breathing in and breathing out of each morning and evening. The color is green.