This Week at Christ the Redeemer:
With the coming of November, we know that the current year is speeding to its close as a new one eagerly awaits! Here are some of the things you need to know this week as we live into that reality:
First, Remember to TURN YOUR CLOCKS BACK this Saturday! (My favorite time of year).
Second, our Diocesan Synod that takes place this week in McLean VA (starts today and ends on Saturday). The theme for this year is discipleship and catechesis for a ‘time of exile’—a timely topic, and one that resonates with our community. Pete Fraser and Janie Atwood are our church’s delegates, Sharon Reyes represents us on the Diocesan Council, and Ryan Reyes is our ‘alternate’ (and will join Sharon in the Synod). Please pray for all participating in the event.
Third, our Annual Chili-Cook-Off takes place this Saturday, November 4, beginning with the Flag Football game at Lafayette Park (near the zoo) at 4:00 pm (Note: the ‘Chili’ feast takes place at the church at 5:30 pm). All are encouraged to come. The church will be open at 3:45 for chili (crock pot) drop off.
Fourth, our Discipleship Hour continues Sunday at 9:00 a.m. If you are planning on participating in the Financial Stewardship Class but were unable to be present last week, please take some time to watch Bishop Guernsey’s opening presentation, so you can participate as we begin by debriefing the content of his talk this week. It is a 5 part series, but you only need to watch the first part – on this YouTube link:
John Guernsey Stewardship Teaching Video
Fifth, mark your calendars now and plan on being in worship on Sunday November 19 for our ‘Celebration of Rwanda’ day. We have the privilege of welcoming the Rev. Joey Pierce, the Director of Development for the ‘Walk With Rwanda’ project. In addition to hearing about ‘Walk with Rwanda’ we will hear updates on our projects in Mbyo.
Sixth, we are calling together our ‘Chamber Singers’ to prepare some special music for Advent. If you enjoy classical music and singing you are welcome to join in on the fun. There will be a brief rehearsal this Sunday after worship. Speak to Carole Rosenfarb or David Snouffer on Sunday for more information. Also, consider participating during Lent as well.
Seventh, rejoice with us that we have concluded our negotiations and signed our new lease with Knox. We will be taking over the entire second floor (with some renovations needed) and planning on being resident here for the next three years (with two more possible option years). The stability this gives us is priceless; the ability to plan for our future is now in our hands.
Bob Atwood will be leading our renovation work. He has tentatively scheduled Saturdays, November 18th and December 2nd, beginning at 8:30 am, as the first of our work days. He will plan more dates as needed. (We hope to have everything done well before Christmas!) Plan to come and participate, especially if you have a pickup truck to carry away debris.
Eighth, The Wednesday Night women’s group will begin a study of the book “Liturgy of the Ordinary” by Tish Harrison Warren, Wednesday, Nov. 8th at 7p.m. at the home of Temple Richardson, 1510 South Eleanor Ct. Norfolk, 23508. The group is open to anyone wishing to join us. Books are available online or in Kindle format.
Looking forward to worshiping with you all on Sunday.
Brian