THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (January 4-January 11)

Tuesday 1/6 - Bible Study 10:00 AM
Epiphany Service 7:00
PM
Wednesday 1/7 - Choir Practice 7:00 PM
Thursday 1/8 - Council Meeting 7:00 PM
Sunday 1/11 - Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service
10:00 AM

"From Heaven Above"

A Christmas hymn that we never ever sing is Luther's classic "From Heaven Above." Undoubtedly we do not sing it because it is fourteen verses of a slightly foreign sounding rhythm and melody. But really Luther wrote this hymn for children and it really is a great summary and teaching on Christmas.

I was looking over it earlier and the eighth verse caught my attention.

Welcome to earth, Thou noble Guest,
Through whom the sinful world is blest!
Thou com'st to share my misery;
What thanks shall I return to Thee?

The idea of Christ as our noble guest who blesses this world was striking. I am used to thinking primarily of Christ as gift here at Christmas, but in this hymn, Luther brings about the notion of Christ as our guest. Granted, Christ is a surprise guest, coming when and how he did. But nonetheless here he is, knocking on our door, disrupting our routine. And how do we respond to the disruption? Like any other disruption that messes up our sense of the order of the day? Hopefully not. Here is one of those interruptions that changes our world.

My great grandmother told the story of one day as she was doing stuff around the house there was a knock on the door. She went to answer it, and standing on the stoop was a young man. He said, "Hi. I'm John, your brother." They had been separated at a young age at the orphanage where they had been dropped off by their father after the death of their mother. Their oldest brother had fled the orphanage. And she and John were split up. Only here comes this disruption that changes my great grandmother's world. So too with Christ. His arrival changes the world, the way we look at it, and the way things now are supposed to be.

What thanks shall we return to Christ, indeed.

Advent 4 -- Luke 1 -- Have Yourself a MARY kind of Christmas

Readings:
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:47-55
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

The fourth Sunday of Advent focuses on the move to Christ's birth. With Mary's assent to God ("Here I am, the servant of the Lord. Let it be with me according to your word.") we are reminded that Christ's coming into our lives is not just a passive event. We too are reminded of our calling.

Powered by beta.joggle.com

New sermons...

New sermons are being posted again... old sermons seem to have disappeared into the aether. The new system is a bit odd, so I doubt I will go back and rework all of the old posts to update the sermons. I might change my mind, but it's unlikely.

Peace.

Advent 3 -- John 1 -- Good News

Readings:
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28

Powered by beta.joggle.com

Advent 2 -- Mark 1 -- Expecations

Readings:
Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Mark 1:1-8

Powered by beta.joggle.com

Advent 1-- Mark 13 -- Apocalyptic Imagination

Readings:
Isaiah 64:1-9
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 13:24-37

Powered by beta.joggle.com

Christ the King -- Matthew 25

Readings:
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Psalm 95:1-7a
Ephesians 1:15-23
Matthew 25:31-46

Powered by beta.joggle.com

THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (December 21-December 28)

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday - Office Closed
Wednesday 12/24 - Family Service 6:00 PM
Festival Service 11:00 PM
Thursday 12/25 - Christmas Day Service 10:00 AM
Sunday 12/28 - Communion Service 10:00 AM

Faith and the Environment

 

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 10, Noon to 1:30 PM to discuss energy conservation and climate justice.  The Mon County Ministerial Association, An Interfaith Organization, will host a meeting to discuss the future of God’s creation on earth; the nature and durability of our economy; our public health and public lands; and the quality of life we bequeath our children and grandchildren.  This interfaith discussion will be held in the Tait Room of Mon General Hospital’s Conference Center.  Bring your own lunch, or go to the hospital cafeteria (or try out Jazzman’s Terrace Café off the main lobby) and bring your tray into the Tait Room.  This is an open meeting and you do not need to be a member of the ministerial association to attend.  Seating is limited, so please RSVP to Brian Bennett, Secretary, so we can save a seat for you.  For updates, visit http://moncountyministerial.blogspot.com/.  Please forward this message on to anyone you know who may be interested in this topic on February 10, 2009. 

 

Help with Food Drive Needed!

Dave Stiles sent us this message:

At some point or another I received email from each you volunteering to help with the food drive.

We have around $1,000 to use for purchasing food. I would like to purchase the food in the next couple of days and then organize it the same day it's purchased or the next day and deliver by the end of the week if it works out.

Will tonight or tomorrow night around 7:00 work for anyone to go shopping?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

If you are able to help out, please contact Dave via email at dave(DOT)stiles(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Please replace the words in Dave’s email address above with the appropriate symbols. We don’t want Dave’s email to get swamped with spam because spambots have harvested his address from the blog.

THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (December 14-December 21)

Tuesday 12/16 - Bible Study 10:00 AM
Jesus Over Java 7:30 PM
Wednesday 12/17 - Vespers 7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal (after vespers)
Sunday 12/21 - Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service 10:00 AM
Confirmation Class 11:45 AM
Christmas Program 4:30 PM
Circle of Friends

Creator of the Stars of Night

Last night during Vespers, we sang the ancient hymn, "Creator of the Stars of Night." We sang it as the chant that it was. And I know that there are some people in the church who would argue against such kind of things... "It's awkward to sing. It makes folks uncomfortable..." et cetera and and so on. Whatever.

Maybe it is just me, but the simplicity of the music (even with the piano accompaniment) let the text of the hymn shine through. I was struck at how easy it was to sing the proclamation of the gospel. The second and third stanzas read:

In sorrow that the ancient curse
should doom to death a universe,
you came, O Savior, to set free
your own in glorious liberty.

When this old world drew on toward night
you came; but not in splendor bright,
not as a monarch but the child
of Mary, blameless mother mild

For me the awkwardness of the chant, which to be honest can still be awkward at times even for me, was lost as I fell into these words. I was reminded that this creator of the stars and all worlds, stooped down to save me (along with the rest of you, I guess). And I wonder if my being off-balance from the music kept me open to hear the words, as I focused to cling to them as the melody hauntingly moved. I don't know. I suppose, as in the sermon, the Holy Spirit flits around the room like a dove and lands where I know not. Last night I think I felt those wings, reminding me of the wonder of God's story.

THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (December 7-December 14)

Tuesday 12/9 - Bible Study 10:00 AM
Jesus Over Java 7:30
PM
Wednesday 12/10 - WELCA 2:00 PM
Vespers 7:00
PM
Choir Rehearsal (after vespers)
Thursday 12/11 - Council 7:00 PM
Sunday 12/14 - Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service
10:00 AM
Confirmation Class 11:45 AM
Hanging of the Greens 4:30 PM

Silent Expectations

During Advent, we will be observing a period of silence during the distribution of Holy Communion. After we sing the Agnus Dei, we will remain in silence until the end draws near and then we will sing a hymn. In our world, when we are bombarded constantly with noise and clamor, here in silence we find a place for us to wait and yearn for Christ to come. Gone are the distractions. Present is Christ Jesus in bread and wine. Here we may pray more fervently for his coming into our world all the more.

Our silent waiting is not just sitting still and keeping quiet. We should be engaged in the silence. In 1998, John Paul II wrote a pastoral letter that said,

"... active participation does not preclude the active passivity of silence,
stillness and listening: indeed, it demands it. Worshippers are not passive,
for instance, when listening to the readings or the homily, or following the
prayers of the celebrant, and the chants and music of the liturgy. These are
experiences of silence and stillness, but they are in their own way
profoundly active. In a culture which neither favors nor fosters meditative
quiet, the art of interior listening is learned only with difficulty."

Let us engage this Advent in the silent but active expectation.

THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (November 30-December 7)

Tuesday 12/2 - Bible Study 10:00 AM
Thanksgiving Service 7:30 PM
Wednesday 12/3 - Vespers 7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal (after vespers)
Friday 12/5 - Piecemakers 10:00 AM
Sunday 12/7 - Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service 10:00 AM
Confirmation Class 11:45 AM

As Black Friday approaches...

Soon the Christmas shopping season will kick off in earnest, although we all know the pre-season started before Halloween even arrived. There will be a large number of voices telling us that we can improve the economy by shopping, that giving after all is what the season is about, and since you are working so hard in giving to others, why not give a little to yourself.

At the heart of it all however, is that God the Son, did not stoop to come, become flesh, die and rise so that we might prop up an ailing economy. The Incarnation is about God's giving to humanity a new kind of life... one certainly rooted in giving, but SELF giving.

The following video, found on YouTube, makes the point more powerfully than I can...



Peace.

Apologies...

Sorry for not posting sermons recently... the online host I use to store my files is currently going through some changes, and not allowing new files to be uploaded. As soon as I can upload the new files, I will put them up.

I will continue to post however.

Peace,
Pr. Brian

Reformation Sunday

Readings

Jeremiah 31:31-34
Psalm 46
Romans 3:19-28
John 8:31-36

Reformation Sunday, we remember Martin Luther's efforts to reform the Church by being clear about the proclamation of God's grace and how humans are made right with God, that is humans are justified by grace through faith. And we remember that the Church is always reforming, always returning to that core proclamation, without which we condemn ourselves since we can never earn God's grace, love and forgiveness.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 23 -- Matthew 22

Readings
Isaiah 45:1-7
Psalm 96:1-13
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Matthew 22:15-22

In this gospel reading, Jesus is tested by the Pharisees regarding the legality of paying the Emperor's census tax. Jesus sidesteps the trap, and takes us to a deeper, more dangerous place than just our relationship to the governing authorities. Instead, Jesus points us to our relationship to God.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 22 -- Matthew 22

Readings
Isaiah 25:1-9
Psalm 23
Philippians 4:1-9
Matthew 22:1-14

The Kingdom of God will be like a banquet... so promises the gospel reading from St. Matthew, as well as the psalmist and the prophet Isaiah. God is in the business of feeding people. The question is will we, fallen creatures that we are, want the good food that God is offering us?

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Is Christ everywhere?

In writing about the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, Martin Luther wrote:

See, the bright rays of the sun are so near you that they pierce into your eyes or your skin so that you feel it, yet you are unable to grasp them and put them into a box, even if you should try forever. Prevent them from shining in through the window—this you can do, but catch and grasp them you cannot. So too with Christ: although he is everywhere, he does not permit himself to be so caught and grasped; he can easily shell himself, so that you get the shell but not the kernel. Why? Because it is one thing if God is present, and another if he is present for you. He is there for you when he adds his Word and binds himself, saying, “Here you are to find me.” Now when you have the Word, you can grasp and have him with certainty and say, “Here I have thee, according to thy Word.” Just as I say of the right hand of God: although this is everywhere, as we may not deny, still because it is also nowhere, as has been said, you can actually grasp it nowhere, unless for your benefit it binds itself to you and summons you to a definite place. This God’s right hand does, however, when it enters into the humanity of Christ and dwells there. There you surely find it, otherwise you will run back and forth throughout all creation, groping here and groping there yet never finding, even though it is actually there; for it is not there for you.

So too, since Christ’s humanity is at the right hand of God, and also is in all and above all things according to the nature of the divine right hand, you will not eat or drink him like the cabbage and soup on your table, unless he wills it. He also now exceeds any grasp, and you will not catch him by groping about, even though he is in your bread, unless he binds himself to you and summons you to a particular table by his Word, and he himself gives meaning to the bread for you, by his Word, bidding you to eat him. This he does in the Supper, saying, “This is my body,” as if to say, “At home you may eat bread also, where I am indeed sufficiently near at hand too; but this is the true touto (note: touto is the Greek word for "this"), the ‘This is my body’: when you eat this, you eat my body, and nowhere else. Why? Because I wish to attach myself here with my Word, in order that you may not have to buzz about, trying to seek me in all the places where I am; this would be too much for you, and you would also be too puny to apprehend me in these places without the help of my Word.” (emphasis added)

---

Luther, M. 1999, c1961. Luther's works, vol. 37 : Word and Sacrament III (J. J. Pelikan, H. C. Oswald & H. T. Lehmann, Ed.). Luther's Works. Vol. 37 (Vol. 37, Page 68-69). Fortress Press: Philadelphia

On the Current Financial Crisis

I received a link to a pastoral letter from the ELCA Conference of Bishops regarding the current financial crisis. The letter in its entirety can be read here.

Here are the opening paragraphs.

As bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we are deeply concerned about the current financial crisis, which is affecting not only our nation but the entire global economy. This crisis is causing fear and loss in our country as thousands of families face unemployment, foreclosure, and uncertainty about savings and pensions. Meanwhile, they struggle to put food on the table and gas into their cars. The future is uncertain for all of us, but it is especially frightening for those who are already vulnerable and struggling to survive. We offer our prayers for those whose lives are being affected and for our national leaders as they seek to address this complex matter.

We call on all people in our own communities of faith and those from every segment of our society who seek the health of our nation to join in conversation and prayer about our collective economic life, our financial behaviors, and the interconnectedness of all life and creation that cries out to be reclaimed.

This church has addressed the issues surrounding economic life in its social statement, “Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All,” (www.elca.org/What-We-Believe/Social-Issues/Social-Statements/Economic-Life.aspx), and we encourage the use of this statement as a way to understand more fully how the following theological and biblical principles are central as we respond to this situation.

Please note that the social statement to which they refer is linked so you may click on the link to read it in its entirety.

In their letter, the bishops also lift up some of these principles: Concern for People in Poverty, Personal and Corporate Responsibility, the Need for Good Government, and the Benefits and Limits of Free Markets.

Please read these and pray for the world, the church and all those in need.

Pentecost 21 -- Matthew 21

Readings
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:7-15
Philippians3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46

In the lessons from Isaiah, the psalm and Matthew, we hear God's people compared to a a vineyard which is to bear the particular fruit of God's Kingdom.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Weekly Calendar -- Oct. 5 through Oct. 12

Today 10/5 — Confirmation 11:30 AM
Blessing of the Animals 3:00 PM

Tuesday 10/7 — Bible Study 10:00 AM
Jesus over Java 7:30 PM

Wednesday 10/8 — WELCA 2:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM
Council Meeting 7:00 PM

Friday 10/10 — Piecemakers 10:00 AM

Sunday 10/12 — Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service 10:00 AM

Please note: Council meeting this week has been moved from Thursday to Wednesday.

Politics, Progress and Christian Hope

At the risk of gross oversimplification, we suggest that there are two quite different ways of looking at the future of the world. Both of these ways are sometimes confused with the Christian hope, and indeed both make use of some elements of the Christian hope in telling their grand stories. But neither comes anywhere near the picture we have in the New Testament and, in flashes, in the Old....

The first position is the myth of progress. Many people, particularly politicians and secular commentators in the press and elsewhere, still live by this myth, appeal to it, and encourage us to believe it. Indeed (if I may digress for a moment), the demise of serious political discourse today consists not least in this, that the politicians are still trying to whip up enthusiasm for their versions of this myth--it the only discourse, they know, poor things--while the rest of us have moved on. They are, to that extent, like people trying to row a boat toward the shore while the strong tide pulls them further and further out to sea. Because they face the wrong way, they can't see that their efforts are in vain, and they call out to other boats to join them in their splendid, shore-bound voyage. That is why the relentlessly modernist and progressivist projects that the politicians feel obliged to offer us ("vote for us and things will get better!") have to be dressed up with the relentlessly postmodernist techniques of spin and hype: in the absence of real hope, all that is left is feelings. Persuasion will not work because we're never going to believe it. What we appear to need, and therefore what people give us, is entertainment. As a journalist said recently, our politicians demand to be treated like rock stars while our rock stars are pretending to be politicians. Sorting out this mess--which the Christian hope, despite current opinion, is well suited to do--should mean, among other things, a renewal of genuine political discourse, which God knows we badly need.

--N.T.Wright
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven,
the Resurrection and the Mission of the Church

Pentecost 20 -- Matthew 21

Readings

Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32
Psalm 25:1-9
Philippians 2:1-13
Matthew 21:23-32

Ezekiel proclaims that only one who sins is guilty. The son need not fear if the father sins, nor vice versa. In testing Jesus, the chief priests and elders find themselves backed into a corner about the gift of repentance.

Note: In the recording today, the first two words of the sermon were cut off. I went back in and added them later, hence the strange difference in the tone of the first two words compared with the rest of the sermon.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

This Week At St. Paul -- Sep.29 through Oct. 5

Monday 9/29 — LMM (Shoney’s) 8:00 AM

Tuesday 9/30 — Bible Study 10:00 AM
Jesus over Java 7:30 PM

Wednesday 10/1 — Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM
Staff Support 7:00 PM

Friday 10/3 — Piecemakers 10:00 AM

Sunday 10/5 — Sunday School 9:00 AM
Communion Service 10:00 AM
Confirmation Class 11:45 AM

Pentecost 19-- Matthew 20 --It's not FAIR!!!

Readings
Jonah 3:10-4:11
Psalm 145:1-8
Philippians 1:21-30
Matthew 20:1-16

All of our readings on this Sunday pointed to the consistent witness of Scripture--namely that God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Tour deRevs Visit St. Paul

Tuesday evening, St. Paul hosted dinner for the riders of the triplet bike of the Tour de Revs. The Tour was on a ride around the synod getting used to their new bicycle made for three. Of course this was not just ANY bicycle made for three, but a bicycle made for three out of bamboo!

The actual Tour deRevs will take place next summer as they ride around the ELCA visiting every synod office and numerous congregations as they seek to raise funds and awareness for World Hunger, as well as for health and wellness. You can read more about their trek at their website TourdeRevs.org.

Some pictures from the evening:



The riders pose for picture with my boys and me... but why, you may ask are my pants hiked up like that?

Beacuse...














They let me get on the bike!!! Riding a triplet is not exactly like riding your everyday bike...

And here is a shot where we see the bamboo of the bike being joined by hemp and epoxy.














Please keep all of the pastors of the Tour and their spouses in your prayers as they continue to prepare for their awesome ride.

Holy Cross Sunday

Readings
Numbers 21:4b-9
Psalm 98
1Corinthians 1:18-31
John 3:13-17

One of the earliest festivals of the Church, Holy Cross Sunday focuses on the cross as our sign of triumph. We celebrate the victory of the cross without the somber nature of Holy Week.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 17 -- Matthew 18

Readings:
Exodus 12:1-14
Psalm 119:33-40
Romans 13:8-14
Matthew 18:15-20

Jesus gives his followers a means by which they might discern what might be sinful or not, and how they might provide a particular Christian witness in the midst of that discernment.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 16 -- Matthew 16

Readings

Jeremiah 15:15-21
Psalm 26
Romans 12:9-21
Matthew 16:21-28

Following his confession of Jesus as "Son of the Living God" and "Messiah," Peter lashes out at Jesus' passion prediction. Jesus rebukes Peter's temptation to take power by the sword, and instead continues down the path of the true revolution of bearing one's cross.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 15 -- Isaiah 50

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Pentecost 13 -- Jesus Walks on Water

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Sermon by our Project Connect Immersion Student Jared

VBS Program Sermon -- Romans 8 -- Jesus is our power!

From our VBS program July 27... a guest preacher shows up to tell us of Jesus' power.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

8th Sunday after Pentecost--Matthew 11

A forgotten sermon... sorry folks...

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

And on the Lighter Side...

Click on the comic to see a larger version...

10th Sunday after Pentecost -- Weeds and Wheat

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

9th Sunday after Pentecost -- The Sower

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Coming up at St. Paul

August 4th - 10th

Tuesday Aug. 5
10:00 AM - Bible Study
5:00 PM - Jesus Over Java (Panera's)

Wednesday Aug. 6
7:00 PM - Outreach Committee Meeting

Friday Aug. 8
10:00 AM - Piecemakers

Sunday Aug. 10
10:00 AM - Communion Service
5:00 PM - Youth Group Meeting

Mary, Martha, and Lazarus of Betheny

This family from Betheny was one of the closest groups to Jesus. They played an important part in Jesus' ministry, especially near the passion. Mary is portrayed as a very contemplative religious person, and in John's account is the woman who anoints Jesus' feet. Martha is portrayed as a very task minded individual who confessed her faith after Lazarus died. Lazarus was the friend of Jesus who died and was raised from the dead in John. He is believed to have been an early leader in the church.

Lord God you have surrounded us with a great cloud of witnesses. Grant that we, encouraged by the examples of your servants, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, may persevere in the course that is set before us to be living signs of the Gospel and at last, with all the saints, to share in your eternal joy; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Readings for Today:
Micah 6:6-8
Psalm 9: 1-10
Romans 12: 9-13
John 11: 17-44

George Frederick Handel: Musician

Handel, like Schuetz originally began studying law, but left it to work on operas. He traveled to England, where he eventually became a British subject. Handel worked on many different projects for private clients, but as time passed and the opera fell out of popularity he began to work on oratorios. These oratorios were large scale works that centered around a religious theme to be sung by soloists and a choir. Handel's most famous oratorio is The Messiah. Most of Handel's compositions were for the theater and not the church, but they still deal with religious themes.

Today we pray for all who make music, a renewed appreciation of music as a gift of God, and for God to raise up new musicians for the church and His people.

Heinrich Schuetz: Musician

Schuetz was the greatest German composer before Bach and began his musical career singing in the Chapel Choir at Landgrove Moritz as a boy. Interestingly enough, Schuetz started to go to school to study law, but was instead sent to Venice to develop his musical ability. Schuetz traveled around Europe and each location influenced his musical styling as he began to blend the different sounds of each location.

Johann Sebastian Bach: Musician

Bach is perhaps one of the more well known composers from the 18th century. He came from a family of musicans, and began playing at an early age. By the time he was 18 Bach was already an established player and composer. He became Kapellmeister, or director of music, to Prince Leopold in 1717. Bach composed many cantatas, one for each Sunday and Holy Day in the Lutheran calender and consciously served God while he was composing and playing music. Bach passed away July 28th 1750, and was buried without ceremony.

St. James: Apostle

James, the son of Zebedee was one of the first apostles. James left with his brother John when Jesus called to him. They were called the "Sons of Thunder" by Jesus. James was in the inner circle along with Peter and John and was there for some of the miracles that Jesus preformed privately, including the healing of Peter's mother-in-law, the raising of the daughter of Jarius and the Transfiguration of Jesus. James was the first of the apostles to be martyred and his death is the only one that is actually recorded in the Bible.

O gracious God, we remember before you today your servant and apostle James, first among the Twelve to suffer martyrdom for the name of Jesus Christ; pour our upon the leaders of your Church that spirit of self-denying service which is the true mark of authority among your people; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Readings for Today:
1 Kings 19:9-18
Psalm 7: 1-11
Acts 11: 27-12:3a
Mark 10: 33-45

Birgitta of Sweden

Birgitta was the daughter of a high-ranking Swedish official. She found herself to become the lady-in-waiting for the queen of Sweden. In this position she received many dreams about Christ and denounced the wickedness that was in the court at the time. Birgitta went on several pilgrimages and devoted much of her time to helping the needy in Sweden. She received papal approval to form a monastic order, the Order of the Holy Savior, or the Brigittines, which consisted of monks and nuns and was the last monastic order to disappear. She went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and died in Rome on her way return.

Lord God, you have surrounded us with so great a cloud of witnesses. Grant that we, encouraged by your example of your servant Birgitta, may persevere in the course that is set before us, to be living signs of the Gospel and at last, with all your saints, to share in your eternal joy; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Readings for Today:
Micah 6:6-8
Psalm 9:1-10
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
Luke 6:20-23

Coming up at St. Paul

July 27th - August 3rd

Monday: July 27th - LMM (Shoney's) @ 8:00 AM
Tuesday: July 28th - Bible Study @ 10:00 AM
Friday: August 1st - Piecemakers @ 10:00 AM
Sunday: August 3rd - Communion Serice @ 10:00 AM

Bartolome de Las Casas: Missionary to the Indies

Bartolome de Las Casas was an ordained member of the Church that traveled to Central America. He was probably the first person to be ordained in the New World. Las Casas worked hard to try and prevent what he saw were the inhumane cruelties that the Spaniards were inflicting upon the native peoples. After retreating into the Dominican Order for a few years, Las Casas resumed his crusade for peaceful evangelism of the New World. He gained more and more influence at court and then composed several books about the Spanish conquest of the New World. His books were used by enemies of the Spanish as weapons. Las Casas died on July 17, 1566.

Today we pray for the Indians of Central and South America, those who fight against slavery and inhumanity, increased sensitivity to human rights, and for justice and reconciliation among all peoples.

Vladimir: First Christian Ruler of Russia

Vladimir along with his grandmother Olga, were among the first-born Christian people in Russia. Vladimir suffered as a young man, and fled to Scandinavia from his brothers. Later on he returned to Russia where he assumed control and decided to turn his country into a Christian nation. Vladimir changed his life around and then began to fully live the life of a Christian. He remained close to the Church in Constantinople, but maintained friendly relations to the Church in the West. Today we pray for the Christian people of Russia, the growth and grace of all new converts to Christianity, and for Christian families.

John Hus: Martyr

Yesterday we commemorated John Hus, a martyr in the early 15th Century. Hus was a professor of theology and ordained minister in Prague, where he began to feel that the Catholic Church was not doing all that it should. There were three men claiming to be the pope, and Hus began to start condemning the abuses of the Church in his sermons and lectures. He received a summons from Rome, after which he became excommunicated because he refused to answer. Hus was then arrested, brought to trial, and after his refusal to recant articles that he did not write, was executed.

On this day we pray for fearless and faithful preachers, and the renewal of Christian life.

Catherine Winkworth: Hymnwriter

Today we commemorate Catherine Winkworth, a hymnwriter and translator of German hymns. She was one of the best translators, able to preserve the spirit of the German hymns, while rendering their words into English. She also worked as a supporter for women's rights. She spent a lot of time working with women's education systems and their reform.

God our Father, beautiful in majesty, majestic in holiness, you have shown us the splendor of creation in the work of your servants John and Catherine. Teach us to drive from the world the ugliness of chaos and disorder that our eyes may not be blind to your glory, and that at length everyone my know the inexhaustible richness of your new creation in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Readings for Today:
2 Chronilces 20:20-21
Psalm 96
Ephesians 5:19-20
Matthew 12:44-52

Johan Olaf Wallin: Archbishop of Uppsala and Hymnwriter

Today we commemorate Johan Olaf Wallin. Wallin was a Swedish churchleader who is well known for his Swedish hymnal and his poetry. He led the commission to set up the Swedish hymnal in 1811 and wrote an entirely new one by 1816. Of the five hundred hymns, over one hundred and thirty were written by Wallin, and he translated almost two hundred more hymns. In fact, the Swedish hymnal didn't change for nearly a century. So today we pray for an increased love of congregational singing, the bishops and leaders of the church that they may by their example strengthen and renew the church's worship, and for all interpreters of the feelings of their people.

St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles

Yesterday was the day of St. Peter and St. Paul, two of the Church's early leaders. Peter, formerly Simon, was one of the twelve apostles and was a fisherman. He is sometimes referred to as the favored apostle, and was the apostle who denied Jesus during Jesus' time of trial. However, Peter proclaimed his love for Jesus three times, which may correspond to the three statements of denial. Peter is also well known because Jesus changed his name and said that upon this rock He will build his church in Matthew 16:13-20. Peter is also called the first pope.

Paul actually started out as Saul, a persecutor of Christians, until Jesus blinded him on the road to Damascus and then opened his eyes, literally and to His message. We know Paul best because he wrote many of the Epistles in the New Testament. Both of these early Church leaders were believed to have been martyred on the same day in the year 68 AD.

Almighty God, whose blessed apostles Peter and Paul glorified you by their martyrdom; Grant that your Church, instructed by their teaching and example, and knit together in unity by your Spirit, may ever stand firm upon the one foundation, which is Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Readings for Today:
Exekiel 34:11-16
Psalm 87:1-6
1 Corinthians 3:16-23
Mark 8:27-35

Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons

Irenaues was a bishop of Lyons, France. He spoke out against many heresies, especially Gnosticism. His book, Against Heresies, is probably his most well known defense against Gnosticism, which was threatening to the church. Irenaeus stated that the bishops were the only providers of the true interpretation of the Gospel. Irenaeus was a promoter of peace in the Church.

Almighty God, you have raised up faithful bishops and leaders of your Church. May the memory of your servant Irenaeus be a source of joy for us and a bulwark of our faith, so that we may serve you and confess your name before the world; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Readings for Today:
Ezekiel 34: 11-16
Psalm 84
Ephesians 3:14-21
John 21:15-17

Philipp Melanchthon: Renewer of the Church

Today we celebrate Philipp Melanchthon and his achievements. Most of us know Melanchthon because he penned the Augsburg Confession, but very few are aware of his place as one of the first systematic theologians of the Lutheran church. Melanchthon also worked with Luther at Wittenberg University as a professor of theology, the Scripture, Aristotle, and the classics. Melenchthon was and is sometimes vilified as being to Catholic or too Calvin, but his other works, Loci Communes and Summary of Ethics are both examples of how Lutherans view doctrine (Loci Communes) and how we are to view ethics, even Aristotle's (Summary of Ethics).

On this day as we remember Philipp Melanchthon and the Augsburg Confession, let us pray for the unity of the church, the preaching and teaching of pure doctrine, and a deeper knowledge of Christ and his benefits.

The Presentation of the Augsburg Confession

Today is the 478th Anniversary of the Presentation of the Augsburg Confession, which is the standard doctrine for the Lutheran Faith. In it, Philipp Melanchthon along with several other members of the German empire, detail what it means to be a member of the Lutheran church, in hopes that it can be reconciled with the Roman Catholic church. In the Confession, almost every aspect of what Lutherans believe is found, from the concept of the Trinity to the monastic lifestyle. Melanchthon explains why we practice things differently than the Catholic church, and uses Scripture to back up the Lutheran way of doing things. There is also discussion about original sin and why there is still so much sin in the world. Melanchthon stresses the importance of being saved by grace through faith, as it is an important part of what we believe as Lutherans. He also states that even though we cannot do good works to gain the Holy Spirit and salvation, but that without the Holy Spirit it is impossible to do good works. Melanchthon also discusses how and when mass should be distributed as well as how we are to view the saints. To see for yourself what the Augsburg Confession is about, click here.

The Nativity of John the Baptist

We all know the tale of John the Baptist. He was the cousin of Jesus, born to Mary's sister, and began to proclaim the coming of Jesus. John the Baptist proclaimed that even though he was baptizing with water, soon would come the day of one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. One, whose sandals he would be unworthy to tie. Even though some people believed that John the Baptist was Messiah, he kept pointing towards Jesus as the one who would bring salvation. John the Baptist was baptized Jesus in the Jordan. Shortly after Jesus' baptism, John was beheaded by Herod, because of his teachings against the moral code of Herod and his family. Today marks the anniversary of the birth of the "Last Old Testament Prophet" and we are reminded of the turning point between the Old Testament and the New.

Readings for Today:
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm 141
Acts 13:13-26
Luke 1:57-80

Prayer for the Day:
Almighty God, you called John the Baptist to give witness to the coming of your Son and to prepare the way. Grant to your people the wisdom to see your purpose and the openness to hear your will, that we too may witness Christ's coming and so prepare his way; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Second Sunday after Pentecost -- Matthew 6

Readings:

Isaiah 49:8-16
Psalm 131
1Corinthians 4:1-5
Matthew 6:24-34

As we enter ordinary time, the season after Pentecost, our readings focus on discipleship and the life of faith. On this Sunday, we hear a portion of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Jesus tells us that the entirety of our life is not wrapped up in the trappings which surround us. Rather, the essentials will be given to us, and therefore we might live a life of open discipleship.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Feast of the Holy Trinity -- Eternal, Perfect and Divine Relationship

Readings:
Genesis 1:1-2:4a
Psalm 8
2Corinthians 13:11-13
Matthew 28:16-20

It has been said that Holy Trinity Sunday is the only Sunday dedicated to a doctrine of the Church. While it is true that the doctrine of the Trinity is key and central to the Christian faith, this Sunday reminds us not only of the doctrine, which of course is spelled out nowhere in Scripture, but when we speak of our Triune God, we speak of the eternal character of God. The Trinity speaks about who God is and who we are called to be in the midst of God's nature.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

As our state primary approaches...

Let the mouth also fast from disgraceful speech and railings. For what does it profit if we abstain from fish and fowl and yet bite and devour our brothers and sisters? The evil speakers eats the flesh of his brother and bites the body of his neighbor.

St. John Chrysostom

Pentecost, the Holy Spirit and the Community

Readings:
Acts 2:1-21
Psalm 104:24-35
1Corinthians 12:3-13
John 20:19-23

Pentecost is the great festival of the Holy Spirit which gathers us into the fellowship of the Church and sends us out for the sake of the world. In the waters of Baptism we are given gifts by the Holy Spirit for the sake of the community and God's mission.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Community Conversation on Faith, Politics and Presidential the Election

Theologian Kenneth Vaux, professor at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL, will be in Morgantown, Monday May 12, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. to talk about faith and politics in the midst of the presidential election.

He has spoken at churches and congregations across the country raising issues and conversing with people as the country finds itself in the middle of a vibrant presidential election as well as a “religio-political renaissance.”

Prof. Vaux will speak at St. Paul Lutheran Church at the intersection of Baldwin St. and Patteson Dr. This lecture is free and open to the public.

The Promise and the Work

Luther wrote:
Desert is a work nowhere to be found, for Christ gives a reward by reason of the promise. If the prince elector should say to me, "Come to the court, and I will give you one hundred [coins], I perform a work in going to the court, yet I receive not the gift by reason of the work in going thither, but by reason of the promise the prince made me.

Table Talk #268

Calendar this week... May 5 -11

Monday 5/5 — Worship & Music 7:00 PM
Tuesday 5/6 — Bible Study 10:00 AM
Wednesday 5/7 — Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM
Joint Mission Planning — St. Peters, Uniontown
Thursday 5/8 — Council 7:00 PM
Friday 5/9 — Piecemakers 10:00 AM
Sunday 5/11 — Communion Services 8:30 & 11:00 AM
Sunday School 9:45 AM

Easter 7 -- John 17, Relationships and Unity

Readings:
Acts 1:6-14
Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35
1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11
John 17:1-11

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

May 1, 2008 -- Feast of the Ascension Coinciding with the Community's Holocaust Observance

Last night, the community of the greater Morgantown area gathered at St. Paul for a community remembrance of the Holocaust. Below is an excerpt of the reflection I gave.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Brian

-------------------------------------------

Today, we have a couple interesting juxtapositions. We, people of many faiths, gather here to remember the atrocities brought about by Christians against the Jewish people. We gather in a building that bears the name of Martin Luther who helped pave the way for the Shoah through his later writings, particularly calling for the burning of their synagogues, razing of their houses, and ultimately driving them out of the country. It was this tract, On the Jews and Their Lies, which was displayed at rallies by the Nationalist Socialists in the 1920’s and 30’s. Of course, this hatred against the Jews did not start with Luther. After all in the church in Wittenberg where Luther preached, there stands on the side a relief carving of the expulsion of Jews from the town, and this carving pre-dates Luther’s time there by about 200 years.

This ugly and horrible legacy that belongs to Christians must be faced. While few Christians alive today may bear any direct guilt from the actions of the Shoah, we all certainly bear some shame. That the Christian message might be so badly twisted and perverted as to seek the extermination of any group of people, let alone Jewish people, stands as a terrible reminder of the sinfulness and brokenness of those of us who claim to be disciples of Jesus.

We have just heard the theologian Karl Barth, where he wrote, “No, we must strictly consider that Jesus Christ, in whom we believe, whom we Christians out of the heathen call our Savior and praise as the consummator of God’s work on our behalf—He was of necessity a Jew. We cannot be blind to this fact; it belongs to the concrete reality of God’s work and of his revelation.” This writing leads to the other interesting juxtaposition which is about God’s revelation.

Today is the Feast of the Ascension, the fortieth day after Easter, when Christians celebrate Jesus’ return to the Father, where his humanity is delivered into the very life of God, where Jesus reigns, not only as the second person of the Trinity, God the Son, but also as that human being who walked the earth as a particular man from Nazareth, who as Barth reminds us, is by necessity a Jew. The one whom Christians claim suffered, died and rose, is the one who takes his Jewish identity, bearing the promise of the one true God, into heaven to reign, where his suffering is meant be a source of strength to all who suffer for suffering is now known at the very heart of God. But absurdity rules the day, when Christians, who have jettisoned Jesus’ Jewish identity, would cause one more Jew to suffer, not realizing (or worse ignoring) that for our theology, this identity is essential.

Community Holocaust Observance

This Thursday, May 1, at 7 p.m. the community is invited to remember the horrible events of the Holocaust at St. Paul. We gather to hear writings of those who went through the holocaust, to sing hymns, and to pray.

Please join us.

Easter 6 -- John 14, the Church and the Spirit

Readings:
Acts 17:22-31
Psalm 66:8-20
1 Peter 3:13-22
John 14:15-21

We hear of the Spirit's activity, bringing us into union with Jesus and the Father. We are called from the broken relationships of the world, from alienation and separation, to the community of the Church, a fellowship that will last even through the bondage of death.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Wonder and Amazement at Life....

[Humans] go abroad to wonder at the heights of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and they pass by themselves without wondering.

--St. Augustine of Hippo

Voting Members Needed!!!

The annual synod assembly is coming to Morgantown on May 30-31, 2008. We need to send a male and a female to the assembly. Since it will be here in Morgantown at the Waterfront Place Hotel, no travel will be involved.

We will be celebrating 101 years of campus ministry in the Lutheran church, and will be breaking ground on the Lutheran Campus Ministry's new addition.

Please contact Pastor Brian if you are interested.

Apologies for the delays...

The posts have been delayed, mainly due to travel and illness. Hopefully things are back on track now.

Peace.
Pr. Brian

Fifth Sunday of Easter -- Chosen and Precious

Readings:

Acts 7:55-60
Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16
1 Peter 2:2-10
John 14:1-14

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Third Sunday of Easter

Readings:

Acts 2:14a, 36-41
Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19
1 Peter 1:17-23
Luke 24:13-35

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

John Donne -- Death be not proud

Death be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadfull, for, thou art not soe,
For, those whom thou think'st, thou dost overthrow,
Die not, poore death, nor yet canst thou kill mee.
From rest and sleepe, which but thy pictures bee,
Much pleasure, then from thee, much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee doe goe,
Rest of their bones, and souls deliverie.
Thou art slave to Fate, Chance, kings and desperate men,
And dost with poyson, warre and sicknesse dwell,
And poppie, or charmes can make us sleep as well,
And better than thy stroake; why swell'st thou then?
One short sleepe past, wee wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; death, thou shalt die.


John Donne (1572-1631), Anglican priest and metaphysical poet, writes these words, which may be familiar to many of us. This poem is usually studied in high school as a classic example of the sonnet. I post it here today as a reminder that Easter is not over. We may forget death is nothing more than a servant, so great its power seems to us, snuffing out our existence and tearing our loved ones from us.

Donne's words remind death that he serves a very limited role... servant to fate and chance, to kings and "desperate men" (i.e. murderers, brigands, etc.) In many ways, Donne reaffirms that death is around only because of sin, when he writes, "And dost with poyson, warre and sicknesse dwell," all of which are manifestations of the brokenness in relationships that Sin brings about.

And finally to bring death to its knees and put it in its proper role, Donne reminds death and us readers that there death is but "one short sleepe" after which we will live eternally... and death will itself die.

Alleluia! Christ is risen!

Easter Vigil Pictures

Thanks to Steve W. for taking these during the Easter Vigil Saturday night...















Gathered around the New Fire















The Exultet
















Chaplain Riegel Praying






























Pastor Bennett Preaching

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

Easter Sunday -- Paradox? Mystery!

Readings:
Acts 10:34-43
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Colossians 3:1-4
Matthew 28:1-10

Easter Sunday... Jesus raised from the dead. Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Easter Vigil -- The Promise of the Resurrection

Readings:
Romans 6:3-11
John 20:1-9

In addition to the office of readings (of which we did nine) that recount salvation history, after the singing of the Gloria and the entrance to the joy of Easter, we heard the great baptismal passage of Paul in Romans 6, and the Easter story in John.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Good Friday

Readings:
Isaiah 52:13-53:12
John 18:1-19:42

Good Friday we recall Jesus' death as recorded by the evangelist John. During the service we cry out, "We adore you O Christ and we bless you, for by your holy cross you have redeemed the world." The cross is our focus.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Maundy Thursday -- Meal for the Journey

Readings:
Exodus 12:1-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
John 13: 1-17, 31b-35

The name "Maundy Thursday" comes from the "mandate" Jesus gives his disciples the night before his death, "Love one another as I have loved you." This love will be a defining mark of the community who follows Jesus. We also hear Paul recount what was handed on to him, dating back to that very night of Jesus' betrayal. Jesus institutes the meal with which he gives of his very body and blood in the bread and the wine for the forgiveness of sins. This institution takes place in the midst of the meal established by God for Israel to remember their freedom from bondage in Israel.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion

Readings:
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 31:9-16
Philippians 2:5-11
Matthew 26:14 - 27:66

This Sunday we hear the story of Jesus' Passion, his suffering and death on the cross. This story is the revelation of how far God is willing to go to reconcile human beings to him. The Passion is the story of God's undying love for us.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com

Holy Week Calendar -- March 16-23

Holy Tuesday 3/18
Chrism Mass 11:00 AM
--All are invited to this service of the blessing of oils for use in the synod, and the renewal of ordination/commisssioning vows for rostered leaders

Holy Wednesday 3/19
Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM

Maundy Thursday 3/20
Maundy Thursday Services Noon & 7:00 PM
--Confession, Foot Washing and Holy Communion at each

Good Friday 3/21
Stations of the Cross Noon
Adoration of the Cross 8:00 PM

Holy Saturday 3/22
Children’s Activities 1:00 PM
Easter Vigil 8:00 PM

Sunday 3/23
Resurrection Matins 7:30 AM
Continental Breakfast 9:00 AM
Festival Service 11:00 AM

Draft Statement on Human Sexuality released.

The first draft of the statement on human sexuality was released. ELCA members and others may download it here (pdf format). Please note, this draft is meant for discussion, study, conversation and comments. The ELCA will be taking official comments until November 1, 2008. Public comments may be made at the end of the West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod Assembly, May 31, 2008. Fortunately for St. Paul members, this year's Synod Assembly is here in Morgantown May 30-31, 2008.

More details about the timeline and the history of this statement can be found at Journey Together Faithfully.

THIS WEEK AT ST. PAUL (March 9—March 16)

Tuesday 3/11
Bible Study 10:00 AM
Adult Study 7:00 PM

Wednesday 3/12
Soup & Bread Supper 6:00 PM
Lenten Vespers 7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal 8:00 PM

Thursday 3/13
Council Meeting 7:00 PM

Friday 3/14
Piecemakers 10:00 AM

Sunday 3/16 Palm Sunday
Communion Service 8:30 & 11:00 AM
Sunday School 9:45 AM
Confirmation Class 12:45 PM

Lent 5 -- John 11 -- Raising of Lazarus

Readings
Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm 130
Romans 8:6-11
John 11:1-45

The readings this week focus us on God's activity bringing life from death. Ezekiel gives us the valley of dry bones, calling the people Israel to life while in captivity. Paul declares to us that Jesus is raised by the glory of the Father. John tells us the story of Lazarus, in which we too may hear the promise to each of us that on the last day Jesus will call us to new life in the resurrection. Perhaps a strange theme to hear in the midst of Lent, but our new life is begun to be made known even now as we die to the old life of sin.

Powered by simple.myfabrik.com