When you pass the mid-point of August you know the Summer is waning and the Fall is fast approaching. Here are some of the things we need to know to help us all prepare for the new season:
First, An Update on our Child Protection Policy: The Leadership Council began its deliberations on the strengthening of our policy and committed itself to completing the draft by this coming Sunday. Once the policy is written, we will then forward it to the bishop for diocesan approval. We also agreed that the policy will be presented publicly at our next scheduled Quarterly Congregational Meeting set for Sunday, September 16th immediately following worship. Please mark that date on your calendars and keep the council (and diocese) in your prayers as they engage in this important task.
Second, Our ‘Discipleship Hour’ returns on Sunday September 9 from 9:00 -10:00 am. This is the time our community gathers to learn ‘to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord’. There will be two Adult offerings in addition to our Children’s program. Details of the classes will be found in Sunday’s bulletin and on the web. Plan now to participate in this vital aspect of our common life.
Third, A Missional Opportunity: There is renewed energy surrounding our outreach towards International Students at ODU. If you would like to befriend a student/scholar and share the love of Christ in the most basic of ways, then please contact Hank Thompson or David Snouffer soon!
Fourth, Jordan O’Byrne and Olivia Rogers will be married next Saturday, August 25th. Please pray for these two as they prepare for this great event, and for us as a community of faith as we welcome and support them in their (soon-to-be) married state.
Fifth, Our Episcopal Visit is set for the first weekend in October (6-8th). Bishop Quigg and Annette Lawrence will be with us in multiple ways that weekend culminating in our worship service on Sunday. We will be celebrating baptisms (and possible confirmations) that day. Should you, or a member of your family, wish to be baptized ( or confirmed), please speak as soon as possible to Brian+ or David+.
Looking forward to worshiping with you all on Sunday.