Making the Most of Summer - Part II - Let's Get Messy!

Messy Church: Simple in a Special Sort of Way

Summer Time is Family Time. 

We share a meal, join in activity and celebrate with story and song. We teach our children the value of God's stories as we share them together.  Simple. It's what we do every Wednesday, the difference is family. Our church family spending time together. Messy Church is a chance to celebrate God's  family together. It's really special and simple. Let's make the most of our time together this summer. And let's make it simply wonderful.

Pass It On - Essence

Essence

The Spirit strengthens us to let go of patterns of pretending and performing that have nothing to do with who we truly are. She strips away layers of anger and jealousy and resentment and pride that have encrusted our hearts and separated us from ourselves and others, and reveals to us the beauty that lies hidden within, the essence of our being, the very image of God.

-Br. David Vryhof
Society of Saint John the Evangelist

Pass It On

Tension

True worship is the engagement with “spirit and truth,” which can create quite of bit of tension. Tension, though it is sometimes very uncomfortable, is quintessential or else there will be no freedom and no strength in the body. Tension is necessary. That is as true for muscles of the body as it is for matters of the heart and the life of the church.

Br. Curtis Almquist
Society of Saint John the Evangelist

Final Rally for VBS

After months of planning we're in our final week of preparation for Vacation Bible School.  When you look at where we came from and where we are now it shows the  determination and faith of this Parish very clearly.

I'm happy to tell you that we have 25 adult volunteers and 10 youth volunteers confirmed for the week. We have 30 participates ages rising 3 to 5th grade.This number may seem low but keep in mind all the changes we've made and that we are piloting a brand new concept.  This actually affords us the time to give every detail proper attention.

We do have some room left for children to join us if you are thinking last moment that it would be an event not to miss.  And looking at all the plans, you would be right! Just give a call to the church office and we'll get you set up. 896 - 9641.

This week we're finalizing all of the menus for our dinners each night. We are asking for your help with side dishes. Here is our menu for the week, please take a look and see what you might be able to do. Each person would be providing 25 servings.

Menus
Monday - PDQ chicken (donated), Potato Salad, Relish Tray, Watermelon.

Tuesday - Mac and Cheese, Toss Salad,  Relish Tray, Assorted Fruit

Wednesday - Hot Dogs, Cole Slaw,  Relish Tray, Assorted Fruit

Thursday - Olive Garden Spaghetti (donated), Meatballs, Toss Salad w/ mozzarella, Relish tray, Watermelon

 Friday - Taco Bar Dinner, ground beef (seasoned), lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, salsa.

We Look forward to hearing from you!

Pass It On

Gift

This life is a gift – not to be earned, but received – the gift of living in union with God.

-Br. David Vryhof
Society of Saint John the Evangelist

Making the Most of Summer - What's your Plan?

It is no secret that most of us look forward to the 'lazy days' of summer. Schools of all types are ending, vacations are being planned, we're ready for that well deserved break.

We have learned how to make the most of the summer months in order to rest and renew for the months ahead.   But what are we thinking about spiritually? How does God fit into our summer plan?

Pentecost is upon us. We celebrate the 'going forth' of our faith.  The rush of the Holy Spirit which transforms the disciples, excites the notion that we too have an opportunity to meet those around us where ever they are and invite them to be a part of the God-experience.  We have many new faces at St. Thomas so we can start with the person in the pew right next to us. We can even challenge ourselves to find a community in need much like our youth will do on their summer mission trip.

Right here at home VBS will be happening. There really are so many possiblities.

This Sunday we will celebrate Pentecost - open our hearts to each other and to whatever God calls us to do. We will celebrate the family we have become as the church, St. Thomas.  We will welcome new members in baptism.  Our children will sing as we join in worship and we will all gather after service and feast on a delicious Pancake Brunch.
    -  It seems the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of summer - much like a family reunion. I think you might have the beginings of a plan!

Pancake Brunch

hosted by the Young Families of St. Thomas

following the 10:00 a.m. Service in the Parish Hall

Menu: Pancakes & French Toast with Topping Bar
          Bacon or Sausage
          Juice and Coffee
Cost: Adults $6, Youth ages 4-12, $3, children 3& under eat free