Lilies of the Field

Lilies of the Field

Last week we explored a parable found only in Luke that many people find problematic. This week we’re going to a passage that few people have issues with. In fact, it’s often a fallback passage to turn to when we feel stressed.  We read it and hear, “Consider how God cares for the birds and the beautiful flowers; don’t worry—God will take care of you, too!” It can be found in Matthew 6:25-34 and Luke 12:22-34. In last week’s sermon, you learned some Bible study tips. We’re going to apply those to this week’s passage, too; because there’s a larger teaching here.

While the larger teaching is frequently missed in church, Hollywood did not miss it. Learn about the passage and have some fun by watching the 1963 classic film, Lilies of the Field, starring Sidney Poitier. You won’t regret it!

— Pastor Anne

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Crawford Presents: Sindy Skinless and the Decomposers

Crawford Presents: Sindy Skinless and the Decomposers

You’re invited to a holiday concert like you’ve never seen, for Halloween! On Saturday, October 29, Sindy Skinless and her skeleton pals will perform “live” on stage from 7 to 8pm. Young and old will enjoy their parodies of popular tunes (eg Elvis Deadly, O Zombie Boy, and Cannibal Girl) as well as new songs for this season presented for the first time! Doors open at 4:30 with Halloween crafts and spooky activities for all ages. Costumes encouraged! Have your photo taken with Sindy and her pals! Donations at the door, free popcorn for all and, at the Crawford Cafe, hotdog (or vegan dog), chips and drink for $5.

Blessing of the Animals, Oct. 2

Blessing of the Animals, Oct. 2

Please join us for our third annual Blessing of the Animals, outdoors, under the tent in front of our church at 34 Dix Street, Winchester, MA, on Sunday, October 2, at 10am. Our prayer time will include moments to give thanks for our animal companions, to acknowledge the holes in our hearts left by pets who are gone from us too soon, to honor animals that serve in public safety and wellness, to mourn the loss of species, and to celebrate those who have taken on the difficult work of animal rescue, shelter, and care. All are welcome (people and animals), so please join us and bring your critters, big or small. “If you can control it, you can bring it.” (Along those lines, please read these tips for keeping the peace keeping the peace between our blessed pets at the service.)

The Dishonest Manager

The Dishonest Manager

At the beginning of Luke 16, Jesus tells a parable that typically leaves people scratching their heads. It’s not that we don’t understand that there are corrupt money managers out there; it’s that Jesus seems to praise him. Even the rich man who fires him offers admiration. What’s the deal with that? Why is Jesus telling this story?

— Pastor Anne

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American Idols, Part 5: Idols In Idaho

American Idols, Part 5: Idols In Idaho

This sermon focuses on how public discussion of religion and politics might be different from the way we interact with individuals in more private settings. To do that, we’re going to consider an example from northwest Idaho, where unrelenting harassment and intimidation has led to the resignation of the Boundary County Library director, effective Sept. 10, 2022.

This is by no means a unique case, but it clearly mentions the role of some religious communities in the area. Since public libraries are part of local government, it seemed like a good case to examine as we look at the public clash of government and religion. If this were our library in Winchester, how might we respond? What might be appropriate and what might be out of bounds? Is there anything we could or should do from a distance? Most importantly, can you spot the idol?

For more information about the situation in Boundary County, an article from the Idaho Statesman can be found here: https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/northwest/idaho/article264781169.html.

Pastor Anne

 

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