A much-neglected dimension of the Christian life is how communal it is. We say, “Bee the Church!” That is, be the living community which is Jesus’ body: loving, working for justice, and welcoming. In the Apostle Paul’s letters, he often begins with, “I thank God in all my remembrances of you.” His message starts with… Continue reading The Christian life is a team sport.
Tag: community
A top 10 list for alive churches
What makes a congregation come alive? I’ve asked some friends across the nation and have gleaned their thoughts on this matter. Here’s a top 10 list for alive churches. 10. Alive churches adjust their sails. They know change is the only way growth happens. Change is a gift from God.9. Alive churches ask a lot… Continue reading A top 10 list for alive churches
25th anniversary of our community Thanksgiving meal
What are your memories of Thanksgiving? Do you have favorite moments from your childhood about the holiday? What faces appear when you think of Thanksgiving? What smells fill your heart, mind, and soul? What traditions have you taught the younger generations? Are there certain foods that are “a must” for the big meal? Thanksgiving conjures up… Continue reading 25th anniversary of our community Thanksgiving meal
What new folks find at The Palms
Have you noticed all the new people hanging out at The Palms? With new people come questions – and we love questions! Most inquiries ask me to describe our church. What phrases would you use to sketch out who and what we are? How would you describe us? At The Palms, we celebrate the diversity… Continue reading What new folks find at The Palms
Sign up for new programs in the Doing Grief™ Community Healing Project
Doing Grief Community Healing Project at the Palms (DGCHP) invites you to register for some new programs and services that will begin in February. Initial offerings include spiritual direction:1-on-1, family dyads/groups, and small groups (see descriptions below), offered by Rev. Shea Darian, a UCC minister, certified spiritual director, and grief educator. Story Circles are facilitated… Continue reading Sign up for new programs in the Doing Grief™ Community Healing Project
Here’s my Top Ten list for venturing forth into 2023
Happy New Year! Here’s my Top Ten list for venturing forth into 2023: Shalom, Paul
Dysart Community Center Sends a Note of Gratitude
I wanted to express to everyone in your congregation how very grateful we are for the support you have all given us during this difficult year. Without your help, kindness and generosity, we would not have survived the COVID-19 pandemic. You lifted our spirits, you gave practical and useful donations to help those in desperate… Continue reading Dysart Community Center Sends a Note of Gratitude
Community labyrinths
Visit our labyrinths – they’re open to all. Come and walk, pray, reflect, and return to the world, different. We have created two labyrinths, recognizing the diversity that is embedded in our church and community. One is long, and one is short; please make use of both. The longer one will follow the traditional meandering… Continue reading Community labyrinths
Reaffirmation and Dedication of Jump Start Bible Study Members
Jump Start Bible Study, a diverse collection of the children of God, has gathered as a community of love this day to reaffirm their desire to serve, to study, to learn, to share, to bring the good news that all are welcome within the family of God. “What does the Lord require of you but… Continue reading Reaffirmation and Dedication of Jump Start Bible Study Members