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Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2012-02-03T05:46:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, February 5, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

A Spoke in the Wheel

This Sunday's conversation will focus on the life and times of

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German pastor, theologian, and Nazi resister.

Bonhoeffer's thoughts and actions raise important challenges and

questions for individuals and faith communities. We will view excerpts

from the 2003 film, Bonhoeffer.

Nursery care will be provided.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - Raised to Serve

Text - Mark 1:29-39

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery care and Sunday School for children.

"SOUPER" BOWL, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to enjoy delicious soups prepared by Walnut Hill chefs.

Donations will be received to benefit God's Pantry Food Bank, which

serves households throughout central and eastern Kentucky.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2012-02-01T06:26:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Greetings to all!

A large church here in Lexington recently hosted a lecture on the life of

Dietrich Bonhoeffer. A "standing room only" crowd turned out to hear the

presentation, an indication of the ongoing interest in this German pastor,

theologian, and Nazi resister. Indeed, there is much to be learned from

reflection on Bonhoeffer's life, thought, and actions. Consider these

passages from two of his letters...

(to his brother, Karl, 1935)

I think I am right in saying that I would only achieve true inner clarity and

sincerity by really starting to take the Sermon on the Mount seriously. This

is the only source of strength that can blow all this nonsense sky-high. The

restoration of the church will surely come from...a life of adherence to the

Sermon on the Mount in imitation of Christ. I believe the time has come to

rally people together for this.

(to his friend, Eberhard Bethge, 1944)

I discovered later, and am still discovering right up to this moment, that

it is only by living completely in this world that one learns to have faith.

By this-worldliness I mean living unreservedly in life's duties, problems,

successes, failures. In so doing we throw ourselves completely into the

arms of God, taking seriously not only our own suffering, but those of

God in the world. That, I think, is faith.

The scripture lessons for Sunday, February 5...

Isaiah 40:21-31

1 Corinthians 9:16-23

Mark 1:29-39

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, February 5, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. The focus for this Sunday's Conversation will be the life

and times of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the

conversation, or just listen in.

"SOUPER" BOWL SUNDAY is this Sunday, February 5, immediately

after morning worship. You will have opportunity to enjoy some delicious

soup and make a donation in support of God's Pantry. We are still

welcoming a few more "soup chefs" who would like to offer their culinary

creations to this good cause. Use reply email if you would like to bring

some soup on Sunday.

RENEW NEWS!!

*RENEW "Call to Prayer" - Set aside a few minutes daily to pray for

the congregation and your self. Your prayers might include the "Renew

Prayer", your own prayers, reflection on Sunday's Scripture lessons

(see above), silence, etc... Use your imagination!

*The Renew "Tree" has been "planted" in the Sanctuary foyer. Add

your "leaf" to the Renew Tree as a symbol of your commitment to pray for

the program's success. See the tree for more details.

*Renew Small Group registration is underway and continues through

mid-February. Registration cards are available in the Sanctuary,

or you may request one by reply email.

*Renew officially begins on Sunday, February 19. Be part of it, and

experience the "renewal!"

In the community: The Episcopal Diocese of Lexington will hold its

116th Annual Convention, February 17 -18, in Lexington. Walnut Hill

is invited to send observers to the Convention. Use reply email, or

contact Mike Ward, if you would like to attend all, or part, of this year's

Diocese Annual Convention.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2012-01-27T06:12:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, January 29, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

RENEW

Kathy Steinmetz will lead our conversation focusing on the history,

structure, and elements of the upcoming "Walnut Hill Renew" program,

and how it can provide opportunity for individual and congregational

faith development. Our conversation will touch on the notion of

"Faith Stages" as pioneered by the work of James W. Fowler.

Nursery care will be provided for children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - What's For Dinner?

Text - 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

******

The Vestry will meet at 9:30am in Trinity Hall.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2012-01-25T09:26:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Greetings to all!

A "call to prayer" was issued this past Sunday morning, inviting Walnut

Hill members and friends to pray for our congregation, households,

and our selves in anticipation of the Walnut Hill RENEW program

coming in Lent. The "call to prayer" is an invitation to focus our hearts and

minds daily around this opportunity for renewal within and among us.

The "Renew Prayer" is a good starting place.

We praise and bless you, Almighty God. In your wisdom you have

given us creation and all life so we might come to know and love you.

We thank you for the gift of Jesus who promises us eternal life and reveals

you to us as a loving and forgiving Father.

We acknowledge, Father, the times when we do not respond to your

grace; times when we care little for your creation; times when we act in

unloving ways toward our neighbors and ourselves. We pray for the

weak and those who suffer from evil or injustice. We pray for the strong

and for the special responsibilities that are theirs.

The earth and all persons are filled with your creative power, Father.

Teach us to walk in your presence; to pray as we are united in you.

Open us to the renewing presence of your Holy Spirit, so we might

accept our own strengths and use them to build your kingdom on earth.

We ask this through your Son, Jesus, and by the power of the Holy

Spirit. Amen.

The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 29...

Deuteronomy 18:15-20

1 Corinthians 8:1-13

Mark 1:21-28

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, January 29, 10am,

in Trinity Hall. Our conversation topic will be "Renew" as experience,

practice, and program. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the conversation,

or just listen in.

*The Vestry will meet this Sunday, January 29, 9:30am, in Trinity Hall.

"Souper" Bowl Sunday is coming on February 5 and with it our annual after

worship soup feast to benefit God's Pantry. Several soup chefs have already

volunteered their culinary creations. Use reply email if you would like to add

your special soup to this delicious event for a good cause.

*Thanks to all who helped make Bishop Chilton Knudsen "kindly welcome"

during her visit to Walnut Hill last Sunday. Thanks also to all who gave so

generously (over $480) to support the "Bishop's Discretionary Fund," which

is used to meet emergency needs throughout the Diocese of Lexington.

RENEW NEWS!!

*RENEW "Call to Prayer" - Set aside a few minutes daily to pray for

the congregation and your self. Your prayers might include the "Renew

Prayer" (see above), your own prayers, reflection on Sunday's Scripture

lessons (see above), silence, etc... Use your imagination!

*The Renew "Tree" has been "planted" in the Sanctuary foyer. Add

your "leaf" to the Renew Tree as a symbol of your commitment to pray for

the program's success. See the tree for more details.

*Renew Small Group registration begins this Sunday, January 29 and

continues through mid-February. Registration cards are available in

the Sanctuary, or you may request one by reply email.

*Renew officially begins on Sunday, February 19. Be part of it, and

experience the "renewal!"

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2012-01-20T05:19:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, January 22, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

"A Conversation with Chilton"

We will talk about matters of the church, faith, and life with

the Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen, Interim Bishop of the Diocese

of Lexington. Before coming to Lexington, Bishop Knudsen

served as the 8th Bishop of the Diocese of Maine. She was

the 11th woman to be elected Bishop in the Anglican

Communion. In 2006, Chilton was inducted into the Maine

Women's Hall of Fame ( www.uma.edu/mwhof-cknudsen.html )

Nursery care will be provided.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Guest: the Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen, Interim Bishop of Lexington

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2012-01-18T06:14:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Greetings to all!

The Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen, Interim Assisting Bishop of Lexington, will

be visiting Walnut Hill Church this Sunday, January 22. Bishop Knudsen

is assisting the Diocese of Lexington as it searches for its next installed

Bishop. In her greetings to the Diocese, Bishop Knudsen reflects on the

importance of prayer and Christ during periods of transition.

Our life together, during this transition period and always, is rooted in

private and corporate prayer. I am holding all of you in my prayers, and

will do so each day. I ask that you pray for me. It is entirely appropriate,

if you wish, to now include prayer for "Chilton, our Interim Bishop" as you

offer the Prayers of the People...

In Jesus Christ, all our transitions have a firm anchor. Christ is Lord of

our life in the past, the present and the future. This is well-said in the

Memorial Acclamation we offer at each Eucharistic celebration: Christ

has died (the past), Christ is risen (the present), and Christ will come

again (the future). As we give thanks for the past, embrace our ministry

for the present, and walk forward into the future, God in Christ is, as

St. Augustine said, "nearer to us than we are to ourselves." Thanks be

to God.

(from the website of the Diocese of Lexington, www.diolex.org )

The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 22...

Jonah 3:1-5, 10

1 Corinthians 7:29-31

Mark 1:14-20

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, January 22, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. Our guest for the morning will be the Rt. Rev. Chilton

Knudsen. Join us for some informal conversation with "Bishop Chilton."

Host(s) are needed for our after worship gathering this Sunday,

January 22. Use reply email to volunteer as hosts for this Sunday,

or check the sign up sheet in the Sanctuary foyer for opportunities to

host a Sunday later in the winter or spring.

WALNUT HILL RENEW is coming in Lent 2012! "Renew" offers an

opportunity for us at Walnut Hill to deepen our spiritual life as individuals,

families, and as a congregation through worship, prayer, reflection,

and sharing. In fact, it begins this Sunday with a "call to prayer" for

our life together. Watch for more details.

The Annual Convention of the Diocese of Lexington will be held

February 17 - 18 in Lexington. Annual conventions include worship,

mission presentations, the Bishop's annual address, and much more.

Walnut Hill has the privilege to send observer delegates to the Annual

Convention, and we are currently seeking Walnut Hill Members/Friends

to serve as delegates. Use reply email or contact Mike Ward to inquire

about serving as a Walnut Hill delegate for all or part of this year's

convention.

Walnut Hill Men are invited to gather for coffee each Saturday morning,

8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. Feel free to stop by for as long or

short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp required.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2012-01-13T05:13:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, January 15, at Walnut Hill Church

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Aunt Sarah Jane

In an excerpt from Wendell Berry's novel, Andy Catlett:

Early Travels, the young Andy learns a lesson about race

relations from old Aunt Sarah Jane. We might learn a

lesson as well, or be reminded of lessons past.

Nursery care will be provided.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon - King the Theologian

Scripture - 1 Samuel 3:1-10

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

*****

Walnut Hill RENEW - A brief informational meeting will be offered

after worship regarding this program upcoming for Lent, 2012.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2012-01-11T06:24:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Greetings to all!

In his essay, "Pilgrimage to Nonviolence," Martin Luther King, Jr.

described the people and experiences that influenced his convictions

regarding the possibilities and methods of social change. Though

written decades ago, his concluding thoughts have a contemporary

ring to them.

The past decade has been a most exciting one. In spite of the tensions

and uncertainties of this period something profoundly meaningful is

taking place. Old systems of exploitation and oppression are passing

away; new systems of justice and equality are being born. In a real

sense this is a great time to be alive. Therefore, I am not yet discouraged

about the future. Granted that the easygoing optimism of yesterday is

impossible. Granted that we face a world crisis which leaves us standing

so often amid the surging murmur of life's restless sea. But every crisis

has both its dangers and its opportunities. It can spell either salvation or

doom. In a dark, confused world the Kingdom of God may yet reign in

the hearts of men.

(as found in Strength to Love)

The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 15...

1 Samuel 3:1-10

1 Corinthians 6:12-20

John 1:43-51

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, January 15, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. Our conversation for the morning will focus on an excerpt

from Wendell Berry's novel, Andy Catlett: Early Travels. Come enjoy a

cup of coffee, join the conversation, or just listen in.

Walnut Hill RENEW is coming in Lent 2012 with opportunities for

worship, reflection, fellowship, and action around the theme, "The Lord's

Call..." A brief, informational meeting for congregational leaders and

other interested persons will be held this Sunday, January 15, in the

Sanctuary, immediately after morning worship.

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee each

Saturday morning, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. Feel free to

stop in for as long or short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp

required.

Sunday Hospitality - A new sign up sheet has been posted in the

Sanctuary foyer with plenty of openings for hosting our after worship

refreshments. Check your calendar and sign up to host a Sunday

upcoming. Thanks to all our after worship hosts!

In the Community:

*The Dream Alive Program, featuring Joe Rogers, will be presented

at Transylvania University's Haggin Auditorium on Thursday, January 12,

7pm. See www.transy.edu for more information.

*MLK Day events abound including the "Freedom March" at 10am

Monday, January 16, beginning and ending at the Main Street entrance

to Heritage Hall. A commemorative program featuring Dr. Marc Lamont

Hill begins at 11am in Heritage Hall. See www.uky.edu/MLK/ for more

information.

*Tuesday evening (7pm) gatherings at Pax Christi Catholic

Church around the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity theme, "We

Will All Be Changed..." Check the fliers in the Sanctuary and Trinity Hall

for more information.

Peace to all!

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2012-01-06T05:13:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, January 8, at Walnut Hill Church

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Jesus' Baptism and Ours

As one author wrote: "Jesus' baptism by John is one of the surest things

we know about them both." We will talk about the significance of Jesus'

baptism for him and what the significance of our baptism might be for us.

Nursery care will be available for children.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

The Sunday of the Baptism of the Lord

Sermon: The Pride of My Life

Text: Mark 1:1-11

Reaffirmation of Baptism

Presentation of Sponsorship to Athens Chilesburg Elementary School

Nursery Care and Sunday School for Children

Afterworship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2012-01-04T06:57:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Greetings to all!

While we are still within the echoes of the New Year's holiday, consider these

thoughts on "time," past, present, and future as offered by one of Wendell Berry's

literary characters, Andy Catlett, as he reflects on the people who had come and

gone in his life.

We measure time by its deaths, yes, and by its births. For time is told also by

life. As some depart, others come. The hand opened in farewell remains open

in welcome. I, who once had grandparents and parents, now have children and

grandchildren. Like the flowing river that is yet always present, time that is

always going is always coming. And time that is told by death and birth is held

and redeemed by love, which is always present. Time, then, is told by love's

losses, and by the coming of love, and by love continuing in gratitude for what

is lost. It is folded and enfolded and unfolded forever and ever, the love by

which the dead are alive and the unborn welcomed into the womb. The great

question for the old and the dying, I think, is not if they have loved and been

loved enough, but if they have been grateful enough for love received and

given, however much. No one who has gratitude is the onliest one. Let us

pray to be grateful to the last.

(from Andy Catlett: Early Travels)

The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 8, the Baptism of the Lord:

Genesis 1:1-5

Acts 19:1-7

Mark 1:1-7

Sunday Conversations resume on January 8, 10am, in Trinity Hall. Our

focus for the day will be, "The Baptism of the Lord," asking what baptism

meant for Jesus and what it means for us.

Sunday Hospitality - Thanks to all who so generously provided hospitality

during the holiday season. A new hospitality sign up sheet has been posted

in the Sanctuary with open dates beginning January 22. Check your

calendar and sign up to host our after worship refreshments for a Sunday

upcoming.

ACE Trip - We continue to welcome contributions toward our sponsorship of

the Athens Chilesburg Elementary School 5th Grade class trip to Washington,

DC. Walnut Hill is sponsoring 10 students at $530/child. Your gift in any

amount is appreciated. Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church,

designated "ACE Trip."

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee each Saturday

morning, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. Feel free to stop in for as long

or short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp required.

In the Community: Pax Christi Catholic Church (corner of Man-O-War Blvd and

Victoria Way) is currently hosting a series of Tuesday evening gatherings (7pm)

at which pastors from the south Lexington ecumenical cooperative (including

Walnut Hill) will share reflections on scripture from their various denominational

traditions around the theme of Christian Unity. Check the flier posted on the

Sanctuary bulletin board or online at www.kycouncilofchurches.org (click on

the headline "New Series Explores Christian Unity") for a complete schedule

of dates, speakers, and topics.

Peace to all!

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-12-30T07:24:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, January 1, at Walnut Hill Church

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

The Epiphany of the Lord

Sermon - What's the Trouble?

Text - Matthew 2:1-12

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

Bring one (1) item to share for the refreshment table.

*****

Sunday Conversations program resumes next Sunday,

January 8.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-12-28T06:23:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Greetings to all!

December 28 is observed in some traditions as the "Feast of the

Holy Innocents," recalling Matthew's story of King Herod violently seeking

to kill the newborn Jesus, with the result being the deaths of many children

in Bethlehem. It is, perhaps, the shadow side of Christmas, a sobering

reminder of how children often bear the brunt of adult actions in families,

in nations, and in the world. If we can bear to be mindful of this day, it

provides an occasion for us to reflect on, pray for, and commit ourselves

to the well-being of children in our homes and around the world. In

that spirit, consider the following prayer.

Great God,

guard the laughter of children.

Bring them safely through the perils of childhood,

so they may live the promises you give.

Do not let us be so preoccupied with our plans

that we fail to hear their voices,

or pay attention to their special vision of the truth;

but keep us with them,

ready to listen and to love,

even as in Jesus Christ you have loved us,

your grown-up and sometimes wayward children. Amen.

(adapted from the Book of Common Worship)

In Memory: Martha Moore departed this life on Friday, December 23.

Martha and her late husband Tom were long time members of Walnut Hill

Church. Services and burial for Martha will be held at Walnut Hill Church

and Cemetery on Thursday, December 29, 11am. Keep Martha's children,

Jane Lee and John, in your prayers.

The scripture lessons for Sunday, January 1, the Epiphany of the Lord:

Isaiah 60:1-6

Ephesians 3:1-12

Matthew 2:1-12

(The sacrament of Holy Communion)

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children will be provided during

worship this Sunday, January 1.

After worship refreshments this Sunday, January 1, will be of the

spontaneous variety. You are invited to bring one (1) item for the

refreshment table. Regular after-worship hospitality will resume on

Sunday, January 8.

Sunday Conversations program is dismissed for this Sunday,

January 1. Sunday Conversations will resume at 10am, Sunday,

January 8.

Thanks to all who attended our Christmas Eve service and contributed

to the Innkeeper's Offering. Over $800 was received to support the

Salvation Army's services to homeless women, children, and families.

Happy New Year to all!

Mike Ward

Christmas Weekend at Walnut Hill Church

2011-12-23T05:29:00.001-08:00

This weekend, December 24 - 25, at Walnut Hill Church...

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24, CHRISTMAS EVE, 5PM

"Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight"

We will gather as a "church family" to read the Christmas stories,

sing the carols, assemble the creche, and light the candles of the

season. This service is for all ages.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25, CHRISTMAS DAY, 11AM

Morning Worship and Holy Communion

Sermon: A Lasting Christmas Gift

Text: John 1:1-18

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25, CHRISTMAS DAY, NOON

After Worship Gathering

All are invited to share refreshments and fellowship.

Bring one (1) item to share for the refreshment table.

*****

A Christmas Greeting:

Walnut Hill recently received a "You Tube" Christmas greeting

from the Lexington Street Voice Council and the Community Inn,

which Walnut Hill has been supporting through our

"sandwich ministry." You can access the greeting via the link

below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E2l-h5Znkw&context=C3f50a59ADOEgsToPDskLGPZ1gCjFxh9uGBvh1IE-9

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-12-21T06:33:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Greetings to all!

Ann Weems offers a poetic reflection on "The Christmas Spirit."

The Christmas spirit

is that hope

which tenaciously clings

to the hearts of the faithful

and announces

in the face

of any Herod the world can produce

and all the inn doors slammed in our faces

and all the dark nights of our souls

that with God

all things still are possible,

that even now

unto us

a Child is born!

(from Kneeling in Bethlehem)

Christmas Weekend Schedule:

Sat, Dec 24, 5pm - "Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight" - All ages

are invited to join in this "church family" gathering as we read the

stories, sing the carols, assemble the creche, and light the candles to

welcome the Christ-child.

Sun, Dec 25, 11am - Morning Worship and Holy Communion -

Nursery care and Sunday School will be available for children.

Christmas Sunday Refreshments - Our refreshments for Christmas

morning will be very informal. Feel free to bring one plate of cookies

to share for our after worship fellowship on Christmas Day.

Sunday Conversations are dismissed for Christmas Day and

New Year's Day. Sunday Conversations will resume on Sunday,

January 8, 10am, in Trinity Hall.

Thanks to all who participated in this season's Giving Tree program.

With your generosity Walnut Hill was able to provide gifts to the children

and adults of three Lexington families as well as providing grocery

gift cards for Christmas dinner fixings.

The Innkeeper's Offering will be received on Christmas Eve to

benefit the Salvation Army in its work of providing shelter to homeless

women, children, and families. Checks may be payable to Walnut

Hill Church, designated "Innkeeper's Offering."

Lost and.....Found(?)...A couple items were recently reported lost including...

*a man's brown felt hat with a feather in the band, lost this past week

in Trinity Hall

*a small digital camera, lost a few Sundays ago in the Sanctuary.

Use reply email to let us know if you happened to see either of these items.

Merry Christmas!

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-12-16T06:09:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, December 18, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

The Christmas Story: One Story or Two?

We will "unpack" the Christmas story to discover its multiple sources and

meanings. To put it simply, there is more to the story (ies) than we might

first expect. With this new understanding will come a deeper appreciation

for what the original Christmas storytellers were trying to say about God,

the world, Jesus, and us.

Nursery care for children available upon request. Use reply email or

contact the church office to request nursery care.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

Sermon: A Study in Contrast

Text: Luke 1:26-38

Nursery Care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

*****

The Giving Tree

Persons participating in the Giving Tree program are requested to

return their ornaments and gifts by this Sunday, December 18. Thanks

for sharing Christmas joy with our neighbors!

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-12-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Greetings to all!

Along about this time in the Advent season, Mary takes center stage.

I have long appreciated Kathleen Norris' reflections on "Virgin Mary,

Mother of God."

I used to feel [some] dissonance whenever I heard Mary described

a both Virgin and Mother; she seemed to set an impossible standard

for any woman. But this was narrow-minded on my part. What Mary

does is to show me how I [or anyone] can be both virgin and mother.

Virgin to the extent that I remain "one-in-myself," able to come to

things with newness of heart; mother to the extent that I forget myself

in the nurture and service of others, embracing the ripeness of

maturity that this requires. This Mary is a gender-bender; she could

do the same for any man.

(adapted from Amazing Grace)

The Scriptures for Sunday, December 18, 4th Sunday of Advent:

2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16

Romans 16:25-27

Luke 1:26-38

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 18, 10am,

in Trinity Hall. Our focus for the morning, "The Christmas Story: Is

It One Story, Or Two?" Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join the

conversation, or just listen in.

The Giving Tree: Persons participating in the Giving Tree program

are asked to return their Giving Tree gifts and ornaments by this

Sunday, December 18. Thanks for helping to make a child's and

family's Christmas a joyful one!

Christmas Weekend Schedule:

Saturday, Dec 24, 5pm - "Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight"

for all ages.

Sunday, Dec 25, 11am - Morning Worship and Holy Communion,

nursery care and Sunday School for children.

Thanks to adult leaders, parents, grandparents, and most of all, the

children and youth, for the special Christmas presentation last Sunday

morning, and thanks to our hosts and "party-goers" for a delightful

Christmas gathering last Sunday afternoon. It was a joy-filled day!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-12-09T05:37:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, December 11, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Reflections by Richard Rohr

Our conversation will focus around brief video presentations by

Richard Rohr, Franciscan priest and founder of the New Jerusalem

Community (1971) in Cincinnati and the Center for Action and

Contemplation (1986) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he

currently serves as Founding Director.

Children's Choir & Pageant Practice, 10am, Trinity Hall

All children and youth are invited to gather at 10am for a final

practice in preparation for Sunday's Christmas presentation. All

children participating in the pageant are requested to be present

for this practice.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon: Party Time!

Text: Isaiah 61:1-11

Children's Christmas Pageant

WALNUT HILL CHRISTMAS PARTY, 3PM, 1202 DELONG PLACE

Bring an hors-d'oeuvre item and join us for this festive occasion!

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-12-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Greetings to all!

Today, December 7, is the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Among the many reflections on that event, consider this one from a former

Navy chaplain regarding the solemn work of burying the dead (over 2,400).

The honor guard lined up on two sides of a large trench. The firing squad

and the bugler on the third side of the trench and three chaplains on the

fourth side of the trench - a Protestant, a Catholic, and a Jewish chaplain.

If the faith of the individual was known, that chaplain stepped forward and

conducted the interment. If the faith of the deceased was not known, or if

the deceased was unknown, as was the case in many instances, all three

chaplains stepped forward. A brief scripture, acceptable to all, was read

and then each chaplain offered a prayer in the English, in the Latin, and

in the Hebrew. It was the [intention] of burial that every man [might] have

in death what had been his choice in life. As one of the chaplains later

wrote, "The God of the universe heard the prayers of us all."

Pearl Harbor changed America. Pearl Harbor changed the military. The

war changed the chaplaincy. The chaplaincy came forth with a new

stature at the end of the war. The war changed the religious community

of America. Many will say that the ecumenical movement was born in

chapels where people of all faiths sat down next to each other. They had

never done this before - sang hymns, and prayed and listened to a chaplain

whose faith they didn't know, but yet, were spiritually enriched. Three

chaplains working together - pluralistic cooperation. That had so seldom

happened before.

(Captain Dave Chambers, USN retired, from the transcript of an address to

the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces, December 1991,

as found on website bluejacket.com)

The scripture lessons for Sunday, December 11, 3rd Sunday of Advent.

Isaiah 61:1-11

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

John 1:6-8, 19-28

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 11, 10am,

in Trinity Hall (upstairs office). Sunday Conversations include a wide

range of topics from week to week. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, join

the conversation, or just listen in.

Children's Choir and Pageant Practice will be held this Sunday,

December 11, 10am, in Trinity Hall. All children are invited to be part

of this special Walnut Hill tradition. The Christmas Presentation and

Pageant will follow during the morning worship service (11am).

THE WALNUT HILL CHRISTMAS PARTY will be held this Sunday,

December 11, 3pm, at 1202 Delong Place. Bring an hors-doeuvre item.

This gathering is intended for adults.

ACE Trip - We are currently receiving donations in support of the Athens

Chilesburg Elementary School Fifth Grade Class Trip to Washington, DC.

Walnut Hill has committed to sponsor 10 children at $530/each. Your gift,

in any amount, is welcome. Make your check payable to Walnut Hill Church,

designated "ACE Trip."

Christmas Eve/Day at Walnut Hill Church:

Sat, December 24, 5pm - "Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight" for all ages.

Sun, December 25, 11am - Morning Worship and Holy Communion,

nursery care and Sunday School for children.

Men's Coffee - Walnut Hill men are invited to gather for coffee each Saturday

morning, 8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. Feel free to stop in for as

long or short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp required.

Thanks to all hosts, cooks, and diners who brought the ingredients together

for a delicious and delightful Christmas Potluck last Sunday!

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

This Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-12-02T05:25:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, December 4, at Walnut Hill Church

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

Compassion

We will discuss the concept of "compassion" as it is found across religious

traditions. What might be the possibilities of and barriers to compassion?

Beginning our conversation will be a video presentation by Faisal Abdul

Rauf, a Muslim imam, who explores the concept of compassion as found

in the Qur'an, the stories of Rumi, and the lives of Jesus and Muhammad.

Children's Choir Practice, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather for music and

singing in preparation for next week's Christmas season presentation.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon: Our Unpleasant Jobs

Text: Mark 1:1-8

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Nursery care and Sunday School for children (Christmas Pageant practice).

CHRISTMAS SEASON POTLUCK, Noon, Trinity Hall

Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert and join us for this delicious

Walnut Hill tradition!

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-11-30T05:23:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Greetings to all!

We have entered the season of Advent. Dorothy Bass offers a reflection

on the spirit of this special season of the church year.

The Christian year begins as the calendar year sputters into its final

month. Its first season is quiet but expectant, leaning, as if heavy with

child, into the future. During the four weeks of Advent, the season whose

name means "coming," we carry our yearning in full view, like a protruding

belly. Borrowing the words of the prophet Isaiah, we declare our own

longing for the eyes of the blind to be opened and the ears of the deaf

unstopped, and for streams of water in the desert. We dare to hope that

God will indeed send good news to the oppressed and bind up the

brokenhearted and repair the ruined cities (Isaiah 35 & 61). Then John

the Baptist, crying Isaiah's words in the wilderness, announces that

God's promises are close to fulfillment. "Stir up your power and come,"

we pray, yearning out of the depths of history and into the promises

beyond history, and out of the depths of our own lives toward the

fulfillment of our deepest longings.

(from Receiving the Day)

The scripture lessons for Sunday, December 4, the 2nd Sunday of Advent.

Isaiah 40:1-11

2 Peter 3:8-15

Mark 1:1-8

THE CHRISTMAS SEASON POTLUCK will be held this Sunday,

December 4, immediately after morning worship. Bring a salad, side

dish, or dessert.

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, December 4, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. Our focus will be "compassion" and the one obstacle that

stands in the way of compassion. Our conversation will be begin with

a video presentation by Muslim imam Faisal Abdul Rauf.

The Children's Choir resumes its practice at 10am this Sunday,

December 4, in Trinity Hall. All children through elementary age are

invited to participate.

The Children's Christmas Pageant will be held on Sunday, December 11,

during morning worship. A practice will be held this Sunday, December 4,

during the Sunday School hour (11am). All children are invited to

participate.

The annual Walnut Hill Christmas Party will be held on Sunday,

December 11, 3pm, at 1202 Delong Place. Bring an hors-d'oeuvre item.

This gathering is intended for adults.

The Giving Tree: Only two ornaments remain on this year's "Giving Tree,"

each representing a gift for an adult member of a Fayette County household.

Look for these ornaments on the bulletin board in the Sanctuary foyer.

ACE Trip - We are currently receiving donations in support of Walnut

Hill's sponsorship of the Athens Chilesburg Elementary School 5th grade

class trip to Washington, DC. Walnut Hill has committed to sponsor 10

children at $530/each. Your gift in any amount is appreciated. Make

your check payable to Walnut Hill Church, designated "ACE Trip."

CHRISTMAS EVE/DAY SERVICES at Walnut Hill Church:

*Christmas Eve, 5pm, Lessons, Carols, and Candlelight for all

ages.

*Christmas Day, 11am, Morning Worship & Holy Communion,

nursery care and Sunday School for children.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-11-25T07:25:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, November 27, at Walnut Hill Church

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

The Problem of Evil

One of the most perplexing questions about God is: "If God is all-

powerful, why does God allow evil to exist in the world?" We will

view some videos exploring aspects of "free will," and explore the

possibility that God "must" allow evil to exist in the world. We will

also discuss our responsibility to respond to the evil that does

exist in the world.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

The First Sunday of Advent

Sermon: Those Were The Days

Text: Isaiah 64:1-12

Nursery care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

*****

Please note that Children's Choir practice is cancelled for this

Sunday, November 27. Children's Choir practice will resume

on Sunday, December 4, 10am.

*****

The Giving Tree, Trinity Hall

The Giving Tree will be up and decorated this Sunday in

Trinity Hall. Each ornament represents a gift for a child or adult

in Fayette County. Take an ornament, purchase the suggested

gift, and return the gift and ornament by Sunday, December 18.

CAC Book and Media Drive

This is the final Sunday to bring used books, cds, dvds, and

vhs tapes to support the Catholic Action Center. The CAC

will sell the donated items and use the proceeds to support its

various ministries.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-11-23T06:26:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Greetings to all!

A few thoughts as we prepare to sit down at the Thanksgiving table:

There is nothing like a special meal to mark a day as important. Certain

times -Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mom's birthday - call for certain foods,

and those who are in the know know which and when. Food and time

can be so bound together in our memories and affections that the scent

of a certain spice carries us instantly back to a certain day. Moreover,

some times call not just for special food but for lots of it. When his grown

children come home, a friend who is the cook in his family makes too

much of everything: here are all their favorites, not one vegetable dish

but three, not one bread basket but two, each overflowing with more

than the family can eat. It is his love of them, not merely the food, that

is running over, of course. Such occasions, whether they are on a

public calendar or on days known only within a small circle, are not

just meals. They are feasts. Food abounds, and so does mercy.

(from Receiving the Day, by Dorothy C. Bass)

In Memory: Helen L. Watt, a Friend of Walnut Hill Church, departed

this life on November 17, 2011. Services were held for Helen on

November 21. Burial was in the Lexington Cemetery. Helen's

survivors include Walnut Hill Church members/friends Rada Jeffers

and Bob and Natalie Watt.

The scripture lessons for Sunday, November 27, 1st Sunday of Advent:

Isaiah 64:1-9

1 Corinthians 1:3-9

Mark 13:24-37

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, November 27, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. The morning's topic, "The Problem of Evil," focuses on

that age-old question, "If God is all-powerful, why does God allow

evil to exist in the world?"

Children's Choir practice is cancelled for this Sunday, November 27.

Children's Choir practice will resume on Sunday, December 4, 10am.

The Giving Tree will be up this Sunday, November 27, in Trinity Hall.

The Giving Tree is decorated with ornaments, with each ornament

representing a gift for a child or an adult. This year's ornaments include

children and adults from three Fayette County families. Feel free to take

an ornament, purchase the suggested gift, and return the gift and ornament

to Walnut Hill by Sunday, December 18.

Book/Media Drive: Bring your used books, cds, dvds, and vhs tapes to

Walnut Hill any Sunday in November to benefit the Catholic Action Center.

The CAC will sell the donated items and use the proceeds to support its

various ministries.

The Christmas Season Potluck is coming on Sunday, December 4,

immediately after morning worship. Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert,

and your appetite, to this delicious Walnut Hill tradition.

Thanks to all who participated in Walnut Hill's support of the Nathaniel

Mission Community Thanksgiving Dinner, including 16 stuffing sponsors

and 3 delivery persons. With your help Walnut Hill provided 125 pounds

of stuffing for Tuesday's community Thanksgiving feast.

In case you missed Sunday's Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service (perhaps

due to certain mis-information regarding its location), you might want to try

the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service to be held Wednesday, November 23,

7pm, at Temple Adath Israel (124 N. Ashland Ave.). Persons attending are

invited to bring a non-perishable food item to benefit God's Pantry.

(This information has been double-checked for accuracy!)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mike Ward

Thanksgiving Service - CORRECTION

2011-11-20T14:33:00.001-08:00

Dear Friends,

The Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship Service

to be held on Sunday, November 20, 7pm will be held at

PROVIDENCE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

101 PROVIDENCE WAY

Nicholasville, KY

(behind the Brannon Crossing Shopping Center)

not at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection as previously

announced.

If you are able to attend, please join us at

Providence Christian Church.

This mistake is all mine, and I regret any inconvenience

it may have created.

Peace,

Mike Ward

Sunday at Walnut Hill Church

2011-11-18T04:50:00.001-08:00

This Sunday, November 20, at Walnut Hill Church...

Sunday Conversations, 10am, Trinity Hall

"Lost Christianities"

The decades after the life of Jesus witnessed a wide variety of Christian

beliefs and practices, many of which faded away, or were pushed aside, in

favor of what became catholic Christianity. We will explore some of these

"lost Christianities."

Children's Choir, 10am, Trinity Hall

Children through elementary age are invited to gather for music and

singing as the choir prepares for its December 11 Christmas presentation.

Morning Worship, 11am, Sanctuary

Sermon: Christ the King?

Text: Matthew 25:31-46

The Sacrament of Baptism

Nursery care and Sunday School for children.

After Worship Gathering, Noon, Trinity Hall

All are invited to gather for refreshments and fellowship.

Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship, 7pm, Church of the Resurrection

All are invited to an Ecumenical Thanksgiving Worship, 7pm, at the

Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 3220 Lexington Rd (a.k.a

Nicholasville Road), just south of Brannon Crossing. The service is

sponsored by a six church ecumenical cooperative, of which Walnut

Hill is a member.

*****

CAC Book and Media Drive

Bring your used books, cds, dvds, and vhs tapes to Walnut Hill any

Sunday of November as part of our book and media drive to benefit

the Catholic Action Center. The CAC will sell the donated items and

use the proceeds to support its various ministries.

Walnut Hill Church Weekly Letter

2011-11-16T06:42:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Greetings to all!

This Sunday, November 20, is the Sunday of Christ the King. What might

it mean in today's world for persons to acknowledge Christ as King?

Gary Wills offers some thoughts on the subject.

If Jesus did not come to establish a church, why did he come? He

said it over and over, from the outset. He brought us heaven's reign...

The word for "reign" is normally translated "kingdom," but that is a

misleading term. It suggests a place or political structure. The Christian

reign is the personal presence of Jesus...

How does one enter into heaven's reign?...One enters the heavenly

reign by only one avenue - love. That avenue not only leads to Jesus.

It is Jesus. "I am the path" (John 14:6). Augustine's words on this verse say

it all: "Where should we go but to him? And how should we go but by way

of him? So he goes to himself through himself, and we go to him by way of

him, and both of us - he and we - arrive at the Father.

(from What Jesus Meant)

The scripture lessons for Sunday, November 20, Christ the King:

Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24

Ephesians 1:15-23

Matthew 25:31-46

Men's Coffee: Men are invited to gather for coffee each Saturday morning,

8am, at Paneras on Richmond Road. No program, just conversation. Stay

for as long or short a time as your schedule allows. No rsvp required.

Sunday Conversations continue this Sunday, November 20, 10am, in

Trinity Hall. This Sunday's conversation focuses on "Lost Christianities",

revealing the many approaches to Christian belief active in the years

following the life of Jesus.

The Children's Choir continues practicing each Sunday morning at 10am,

in Trinity Hall. All children through elementary age are invited to participate.

An Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday, November 20,

7pm, at The Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 3220 Lexington Road

(a.k.a. Nicholasville Road), just south of Brannon Crossing. The service is

sponsored by a six-church ecumenical cooperative, of which Walnut Hill

is a member.

Support the Catholic Action Center by bringing your used books, CDs,

DVDs, and VHS tapes to Walnut Hill any Sunday during November.

The CAC will sell the donated items and use the proceeds to support its

various ministries.

Congregational Meeting: Copies of the materials distributed at last

Sunday's congregational meeting are available in the Sanctuary foyer or

by request from the church office. Materials include the 2012 budget summary,

2012 detail budget, and statement of church assets,

In the Community: On Friday, November 18, 5pm - 8pm, at the Lexington

Opera House will be a showing of artwork by "homeless" veterans for whom

Lexington is "home." The showing is titled, "Please Don't Leave Me Homeless."

At 8pm, also at the Opera House, will be a presentation of "Please Don't Call

Me Homeless. I Don't Call You Homed," which is written and performed by

persons who have lived on the streets of Lexington. Both events are free and

open to the public. Donations to benefit the Catholic Action Center will be

accepted.

Peace to all.

Mike Ward