Thursday’s Thoughts
Fairview Community Church
Worshiping God and Welcoming All Every Sunday at 10am
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Dear Friends,
My thoughts are centered on vacation –but even still I thought I would write my weekly message to you because I wanted to update you all on what I did before I took these three days off. I am in Washington DC , our nation’s capitol, enjoying the beautiful weather here! I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to travel to DC in order to be a part of a select group of clergy designated to lobby on behalf of the Employee Free Choice Act. As many of you know, I have been active in our community on behalf of low wage workers. Social justice has always been an important part of my Christian call and so I have been intentional about living and seeking justice. It breaks my heart to know that too many people in our country work in conditions that are not fair or just, and that they often suffer discrimination and are targeted when they want to join a union. I know that not everyone agrees about the place of unions, but our denominations, in fact, every major denomination in the United States , supports the right for workers to organize. So, as a Christian who follows in the ways of Jesus (especially the gospel of Luke) I feel it is important to stand up for the rights of the poor and the oppressed and have been honored to lobby here in our nation’s capitol on behalf of workers everywhere.
Today, I was none other than a tourist enjoying an open air bus ride around the Capitol. One of the most enjoyable stops was the National Cathedral. I could not help but think about all the people who have led our nation who worshipped in this special place. I was most proud to think of the Rev. Sharon Watkins, president and General Minister of the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ ( a sister denomination to me), who preached during Inauguration week. I was awed at the sight of the vaulted ceilings and hundreds of stained glass windows that rivaled cathedrals in Europe , knowing that this special place was uniquely American, designed for all people. As I prayed in the vast chapel, I thought of our little chapel, and know that God has a place for us not only in our community, but in our nation.
I am hoping to visit the UCC Washington DC headquarters tomorrow, and return to the Capitol to visit some of our House of Representatives. I was struck by the sheer energy I felt standing in front of the White House witnessing democracy in action as I saw hundreds of Sri Lankans demonstrating on behalf of their country begging the President to save their people from certain Genocide. Meanwhile, there were Jews standing on behalf of Israel , and other Orthodox Jews speaking up for the rights of Palestinians. All were trying to share their voices, and doing it in front of the President’s house so that change might finally occur. I cannot help but feel the energy in this city and be immensely proud to be an American.
This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. Having just visited the Arlington Cemetery , I feel particularly patriotic and am intentionally thinking about all those who have served in American wars and fought on behalf of our nation. As much as I stand on the side of peace, I cannot help but remember and feel immensely grateful for those who have fought for this country, indeed for any nation, feeling the weight of what it mean to be American, or a citizen of one’s country bound to serve and protect. This is truly a magnificent calling, and not one to which every person can respond. As we approach this weekend, let us reflect and remember all who have gone before us.
We’ll also be doing something unique this Sunday –celebrating Juvenile Justice Sabbath. What happens during Juvenile Justice Sabbath, you ask? Well –this Sunday we will be considering the Justice system –examining what is meant by Restorative Justice, thinking about our faith –at some levels even challenging it –and considering how we as Christians can respond with compassion, dignity and hope to every person in our society regardless of who they are and what they have done. And we will be particularly examining the juvenile justice system. Please welcome Pam Petix from the ASK Mentoring program who will share the work she has done with juveniles as well as some of the work she does at the Women’s prison in Chino . We’ll also welcome Kendra Puryear from CASA, an organization Jack Morrison volunteers with to support youth and mentor them.
I hope that you’ll be intentional about joining us this weekend! Don’t forget to check out the upcoming events we have
The Wide, Wide World of Theology!
Juvenile Justice Sabbath
May 22-24, 2009
A BLESSING FOR RESTORATIVE JUSTICE
For all incarcerated juveniles ~
May you know God’s love and mercy, and accept these gifts with open hearts. Embrace
the opportunity to grow in peace and friendship with those around you. May those
responsible for you, care for you as a child of God—with delicacy, grace and wisdom.
For those victimized by crime ~
May peace and comfort fill your hearts. God tells us to hunger and thirst for
righteousness. He also blesses the merciful. May His love and grace give you the
strength to heal and the willingness to forgive.
For friends and family members who suffer in the face of crime and incarceration ~
May God’s presence in our lives remind us of those who suffer physically, emotionally,
and from whom we are separated. Let us not forget the past but build, together, a future
based on love, forgiveness and understanding.
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Please take a moment to read through the prayers of our community,
the prayers that matter to us, and lift them up in your hearts this moment.
If you have an a prayer request you would like to add to our list, please email or call the office714 545-4610.
PRAYER MATTERS
We are grateful for the well-being and many blessings among our church family. Yet keep in your prayers and heart . . .
Gary Blakesley has been hospitalized again. Please keep him and Sandy in your prayers.
Kyle Cathey, still experiencing excruciating health difficulties. Prayers for his improvement.
Joanne Trujillo’s father-in-law and Enrique Cancelada’s father Jose Cancelada, living in Mexico, continues to have problems with his vision and walking.
One of Joanne Trujillo’s family members was killed in an auto accident, leaving behind four children and a wife. Prayers for their family.
Carol Morrison’s sister, Lynn, who has undergone chemotherapy for cancer for the past year and shown no improvement. She’s now being treated with an experimental drug for an undetermined cancer.
Gina Notrica and her family as they mourn the loss of her father who died on May 5th. They are grateful that all were with him to say goodbye.
Wayne Rash’s stepsister-in-law Barbara Gentry, who is in an intensive care facility
Jane Philipp, who continues to struggle with back problems and other health issues. She appreciates all the prayers and cards she has received from everyone.
Joan Sullivanwho has returned home to recuperate from her surgery. Prayers that she continue to heal.
Carol Thicksten’s nephew who was in a bad car accident. Prayers for him, their family, and all who were involved.
Fritz Tramz’s wife, Carolann died peacefullylast Thursday. This was a welcome release for her, though is inevitably difficult on Fritz. Pray for him and their family during this difficult time.
Denise Valoff’s co-worker’s sister, Eileen needs a triple by-pass surgery. Please pray for her as they proceed with tests to see if her heart and body can withstand one.
The people in Palestine and Israel , that peace may one day prevail.
Those seeking new employment, in this time of severe job losses and economic hardship.
Our state and nation, during this time of transition. May we experience peace and justice for all.
Our Troops, as they perform their duties, wherever they are in the world.
All who feel the burdens of life that the burden might be lifted and God’s grace felt and accepted
Announcements
Missed a Sunday? Catch up on your sermons by listening at home!
Just click here to listen or download now:
If you missed Last Sunday’s Sermon: “First Chosen” you can hear it by clicking here!
Choir Rehearsal This Evening at 6:30pm
If you are a singer then you should definitely join us –if you’re like me and you’re not a singer –you should still join us!
Choir Rehearsal is this tonight and every Thursday at 6:30pm –count on it and have fun!
Let’s make beautiful music together!
Yoga for Relaxation
Please join us every Tuesday at 10am for a meditative experience
For only $5 a class you can join Nathalie, our instructor, and other FCC’ers in the spiritual practice of yoga.
No experience necessary. This is intended for people of all ages. Do not be intimidated by age, ability or anything else!
See you Tuesday at 10am!
Interested in Becoming a Member? Wonder what it means to Join the Church?
Being a member of the church is easy!
All you have to do is come to a membership class and learn more about the church.
if you’re interested please contact Marge Salmassy, Wayne Rashor hit reply to this email
In Awe,
Sarah
Reverend Sarah Halverson
Fairview Community Church
2525 Fairview Road
Costa Mesa , CA 92626
(714) 545-4610
No matter who you are or where you are on life ' s journey, you are welcome here!
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