Our Small Group and Worship theme for September is Renewal. As we join together to celebrate fall and the beginning of the church year, our focus can be on the renewal of our bodies and souls. This is a commitment that may feel foreign at times, and yet renewal is a daily act of self-love and self-care. Civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman writes of renewal and the world around us, stating, “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” What makes you come alive? In this moment, right now, when the world “needs” so desperately, we need people who are alive. And we need the grace to help restore ourselves before we can join in the campaign to help others. Let us focus on personal renewal, feeding our souls and replenishing our spirits.
These small groups are special because they allow each member to deeply engage with the topic in multiple ways. In preparation for each month’s Small Group, I will send each group member a packet. You are invited to select from this packet one spiritual exercise and one question to reflect on before our meeting together. While reviewing the packet ahead of time is a great way to prepare for group, please do not let a busy schedule deter you from participating. Whatever amount of time you are able to dedicate to preparation is just the right amount of time!
I ask that you sign up ahead of time. Please use the link below. Please provide me your email address so that I can send you the packet for you to review. Zoom links for access to the discussion will be sent as well. If the slot that you can attend is full, just let me know. We have opened our small groups to the public to share our gifts with the community. Feel free to invite friends. I am excited to explore the topic of Renewal with you!
To sign-up for the young adult group (20s, 30s, 40s):
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 7-9pm
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D4AACAF2AA1FC1-young6
To sign-up for groups of all ages:
Friday, Sept. 18, 1-3pm
Saturday, Sept. 19, 2-4pm
I hope to see you there!
Warmly,
Rev. Jane