Dear Friends,
In a “normal” time, September 13 would be what has traditionally been called “Rally Sunday.” It would be a celebratory time where Sunday school resumes, the choir returns, and we gather back together after a summer of travel and lighter programming. Needless to say, this is not a normal time. However, I wanted to have something celebratory on this day, nonetheless.
On September 13 from 11AM–12:30PM, we will have an opportunity for you, from the safety of your cars, to receive communion (prepackaged), have a chance to tell me in a sentence or two what you would most want me to know about you and share a hope/dream for the congregation; be greeted by some of your fellow church members, Robbie, our Youth Director, and Marcelle, our Director of Visitation; be a part of Messy Church (11AM-12:15PM, in the courtyard) if you have children or grandchildren; light a candle at a prayer station – and come “home” to the church campus. We are inviting you to come in intervals of 15 minutes, based on where your name is in the alphabet: 11AM – A-B; 11:15AM – C-E; 11:30AM – F-H; 11:45AM – I-M; 12PM – N-R; 12:15PM – S-Z. If these times do not work for you – no worries. Come when works best. We are hoping the staggered times will at least mitigate any congestion a bit.
In addition, as a way of embodying Jesus’ parable of caring for those who are most vulnerable where he said, “I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of mine, you have done it for me,” we will be taking a collection for the San Jose Family Shelter. Through our offering, we will be supporting the vital services of the shelter that is the only shelter in Santa Clara County for homeless families. In addition to providing emergency shelter and food, they help the families work on a plan to become self-sufficient. If you cannot come on September 13, you can always go directly to the website to donate:https://familysupportivehousing.org.
I am looking forward to an opportunity to welcome you “home” to church on September 13. I continue to pray for you and to thank God for the opportunity to walk with you this year!
Grace and peace,
Kate