February 25, 2011
Celebrating Rwanda
We had a great time over the weekend welcoming the new bishop of the Shyira Diocese in Rwanda, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Laurent Mbanda, and his wife, Chantal, to Church of the Redeemer. The new bishop oversees a diocese in northern Rwanda that is home to 100,000 Anglicans, 39 parishes and the Sonrise School. Redeemer people had a number of opportunities to connect with the bishop and his wife, including Sunday morning worship and a Saturday evening reception at Trinity sponsored by the church.
They left feeling greatly encouraged by their time among us and look forward to future visits, both here and in Rwanda and as Redeemer people visit the Shyira Diocese. Several from Redeemer, including our Rector, will be attending Sonrise School’s first graduation on March 19th.
Planters
Several weeks ago we talked about our commitment to assist several church plants as they get underway in Peoria and the Portland area (Vancouver, WA). These are new church plants being led by former Redeemer people, and we have a vital opportunity to walk alongside them. This Sunday these church planters will be with us to share their hearts and vision as God leads them. Join with us as we welcome Chris Marchand and Deacon Greg Lynn from Peoria, and Thom Blair and Rev. Robert Lancaster from Vancouver. Let’s encourage them as they commit their new steps to the Lord.
Newcomers’ Lunch
Friends of Redeemer! This Sunday (February 27) is the long-awaited first Newcomer Lunch of 2011. The Newcomer Lunch is one of the first official steps of the process of becoming more connected to Redeemer, followed by the Discover Redeemer course. Please join us downstairs following worship for pancakes and a brief word from Father Jay to find out how you can be more connected to Redeemer.
Also, we are in need of coffee carafes. If you are able, please bring yours with your name on it, so we can return it to you easily.
Discover Redeemer?
The week after our Newcomer’s Lunch we will begin Discover Redeemer, an opportunity to learn more about what we believe, why we do what we do, and where you might ‘fit’. We’ll share a light lunch and some conversation over several weeks that will be a real help in your journey to belonging here at Redeemer. If you’re thinking of coming, or have questions, please communicate with Brocki, redeemer@redeemernorthshore.org?
Choosing Great Children’s Books
Parents of young children—How do you pick great books to read aloud? Are libraries a little overwhelming with so many choices? A group of teachers and librarians want to share with you their enthusiasm for great children’s books! Join us at the church on Saturday, March 12, 9:30 – 11:30 for terrific recommendations for your young listeners and readers. All are welcome and nursery care will be provided. Contact Emily or Kate Johnston-Legg for more information.
Pick up some invitation cards for this event at the children’s Welcome Table in order to invite others to attend.
Healing Prayer
Next Wednesday evening at 7pm we’ll gather for worship, Holy Communion, and prayers for healing. This once a month service is becoming an important part of our worship life together and a wonderful place of meeting God and His provision.
Lent
We will soon enter the season of Lent, a time of turning from ourselves to seek God’s mercy and restoration. This is not just a day or two, but a journey that will take us to Holy Week and to the glory of the Resurrection. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday,
March 9
th, when we receive the mark of penitence, and are reminded that we are dust, and our lives are fleeting. This realization drives us to God and our only true hope. There will be two opportunities for corporate worship that day at Redeemer—12noon and 7:30pm.
During the Lenten season we will also meet each Thursday at 6:30am for Morning Prayer. This 20-minute service will provide opportunity for reflection, contemplation and confession, and may be a good way for you to begin the day before the busyness sets in. Our first Morning Prayer service will be the week after Ash Wednesday—March 17
th, St. Patrick’s Day.
Giving?
With each week we have opportunity to see how God is providing—in our lives, in our families, and in our church. Celebrating the Lord’s blessing involves not only expectation, but also openness to how God will call us to use resources he has given. Our testimonies of God’s faithfulness, and our generous response to him, serve as an encouragement and witness for those still waiting to see God’s hand move in their situations. Thank you for the prayer, finances and personal commitment that allow our church to really ‘be’ the church, in its many aspects of ministry and mission.
??Offering last Sunday: $5,923
Special offering given for Shyira Diocese: $2,500
Average amount needed each week: $7,100
Please pray for…
— healing and provision for those in need
— our outward vision as we follow the Lord
— the visit this month of Bishop Mbanda and Chantal
Parents of young children—How do you pick great books to read aloud? Are libraries a little overwhelming with so many choices? A group of teachers and librarians want to share with you their enthusiasm for great children’s books! Join us at the church on Saturday, March 12, 9:30 – 11:30 for terrific recommendations for your young listeners and readers. All are welcome and nursery care will be provided. Contact Emily or Kate Johnston-Legg for more information.
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