Casting all our care upon Jesus

Red Run News -- September 26, 2010

On September 19, Pastor Kevin challenged us to boast about God. The 113th psalm calls us to praise the Lord -- now and ever more and everywhere the sun shines from the time it comes up until it sets.

On September 26, Pastor Carl used a number of Scripture texts to encourage us to cast all our cares upon Jesus and then to care for one another. He explained how anxiety operates in family and congregational systems. Julia Sensenig told the children a story "The Rainy, Gray Morning" --about the contagious nature of how we treat others.

Glenda Lafferty led us in singing hymns, including that important reminder, "Count Your Blessings."

After the service today, there was an opportunity for those who wanted to share in footwashing. In John 13, we read of how Jesus washed his disciples' feet as a sign of how he loved and served them.

The flowers at the front of the church were from yesterday's funeral for Richard Shupp, brother of Emma Good.

Glenn, Julie and family have arrived in Pennsylvania from Montana. Glenn is headed to Antarctica for another round of scientific research on seals.

We noted the 65th wedding anniversary of Luke and Ruth Horst. Luke served as our bishop from 1969 to 1988.

Next Sunday (October 3), we look forward to sharing together in the communion service.

The annual auction at Woodcrest Retreat Center will be held this Saturday (October 2).

Pray for students in a new school year

Red Run News -- September 12, 2010

Thank the Lord for the gentle Sunday rain.

In the message this morning, Ken Sensenig spoke about the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-10). Ken also reported on his recent trip to China and North Korea in connection with Mennonite Central Committee.

The music team led us in a beautiful rendition of "The Ninety and Nine." God loves all people, and we are called to do the same. This same lesson was expressed in the puppet show presented by Julia Mickley, Tina Mickley, Alla Prysakar, Colleen Lafferty, and Julia Sensenig. As God's people we need each other and the gifts that each has to share. The children reminded us in song to "Be Kind to Everyone."

Pastor Kevin led us in prayer for those who are in school. The students shared what they like about school. Adults are also in school. Alla Prysakar is taking math and English courses at Reading Area Community College. Tina Mickley is completing a master's degree in social work at Temple University.

Next Sunday (September 19) we will share together in a fellowship meal after the church service.

The blessing of work

Red Run News -- September 5, 2010

Praise the Lord for the beautiful season of late summer.We enjoyed a fellowship breakfast between Sunday School and church. Tim Martin challenged us to the fruit of the Holy Spirit in the combined Sunday School class.

Our guest speaker this morning was retired bishop Luke L. Horst.In celebration of Labor Day, Luke asked, "What is the purpose of work -- blessing or curse?" God did a good work by creating all things and then He rested. God placed humans in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Work is a blessing. Our work is an extension of God's work in this world. The earth suffered when humans rebelled against God. The whole creation will be redeemed as God makes everything new in Jesus Christ!

For next Sunday (September 12), let's plan to have a prayer of commitment for all of us who once again have begun school. We could pass the microphone and each share one thing we like about school or one thing we are looking forward to in the school year.

The worship team is practicing on Thursday evening, September 9, at 6:30 p.m.at the church. The Ready Runners also plan to meet during that same time. And if you're not in either of those groups, you are still welcome to come to the church and chat with Pastor Carl or others.