While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Acts 7:59-60
This Sunday we’ll hear the story of the early Christian, Stephen, who was stoned to death for his beliefs. Saul, the man we know as Paul, watched and supported this stoning and a great persecution of the followers of Jesus began. How many of us could say what Stephen said? How many of us could hold fast to our faith, given such persecution? Wouldn’t it be easier to be quiet and not make waves and preserve our lives? BUT, there was something about Jesus. There was something about following Jesus that was even greater than life itself! AND in the following, there was no call for revenge, no call for violence against those who did the stoning. No, Stephen asked God to forgive them.
How many of us can truly walk like Stephen in the way of Christ? Where do we remain silent and abandon Jesus because to stand firm could mean persecution, ostracism, and our very death?
Stephen’s story is a tough one, yet a necessary one as we continue during the time of Easter to discover living the Resurrection Life.
Blessings as you finish your week!
Love, Rebecca+
Baby Shower: A Baby Shower is planned for Maura Love this Sunday, May 18th, after the service. Plan to join in the fun! All are welcome.
Rebecca’s Schedule: Next week, Rebecca will be in Corbin on Thursday, May 22nd and her Sabbath day will be Friday, May 23rd You can get a message to Rebecca by calling 859 -429-1659 or priest-in-charge@stjohnscorbin.org.
Gospel Jamboree at the Barn, Saturday, May 17. This is the monthly jamboree. Elmer Parlier and Rebecca will be singing at 6:45.
Wednesdays in the Park. Come for fun and hot dogs the next six Wednesdays at 5pm: May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25. On some Wednesdays we will have special programs. We will end with Compline at 6pm.
Adult Forum: Our series on Resurrection Living continues. Rebecca will lead our session this Sunday. On May 25th will focus on Luke 24:15, While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.
We’re buying goats: The Lazarus at the Gates Adult Forum study has prompted us to purchase goats through Episcopal Relief and Development for families in the Philippines. Goats provide milk, cheese, and manure for farming. Donations towards the $80 purchase of each goat can be made through the goat bank in the parish hall or in the offering plate clearly marked ERD goat project.
United Thank Offering (UTO): is a ministry of the Episcopal Church for the mission of the whole church. Our ingathering of your UTO offerings will be today. The UTO Boxes will be gathered and brought forward with the offering.
Memorial DayPicnic: Our pot luck was moved this month to May 11. Instead of a pot luck, stay for a grilled hot dog.
Grow Appalachia: The Vestry voted to move ahead with this project. As we continue to work on this project, let the members of Vestry know your questions. Their website ishttp://www.berea.edu/grow-appalachia/
Daughters of the King meets the third Wednesday of each month at 4:30pm. The next meeting is May 21st.
Flowers for the altar: Donations for flowers for the altar are accepted for any Sunday of the year. Please place your donation in the envelope, marking whether they are in honor of or in memory of someone.
Hymn Selection Group If you’d like to choose hymns for services, join this group. You will choose hymns for an upcoming service and then meet with the entire group to confirm the final selections. See Billy Hibbitts if you are interested.
Would you like to write Prayers of the People? If you are interested in writing these prayers (there are resources that can help with this task), please let Rebecca know by phone or email priest-in-charge@stjohnscorbin.org.
Serving Our Neighbors – See baskets in the parlor.
- Everlasting Arms, Corbin’s shelter for people who are homeless, is in need of men’s and women’s razors, gloves, deodorant and socks.
- The Food Pantry at Corbin Presbyterian Church is always in need of nonperishable food items. Vegetables are especially appreciated.
- KCEOC’s Women’s Emergency Shelter is in need of donated baby items, including baby clothing (sizes 6/9 months), diapers, wipes, bottles, etc. Donations can be dropped off at KCEOC Community Action Partnership main office at Gray, KY.
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