![]() By Pastor Barb Wow, that went fast! We’re at the end of a breathlessly busy summer, and it’s time to finally take a breath and take a look back. Where’d that time go? July saw the launch of twice-monthly block parties in the parking lot. Each of these begins with a Peace Walk around the neighborhood. Then we come back for a great BBQ lunch, and end with a food distribution, with Second Harvest providing extra produce. The Peace Walks are a way to take a stand against violence in the community, and encourage our neighbors to do the same. We sing as we walk, led by Minister Beverly, or Toya Kemp of New Mount Calvary. Last year we stopped to pray at several sites where violence had occurred. This year our new Violence Prevention youth group leads the walks, carrying a banner that ways “Walk for Peace,” and wearing t-shirts that say “Live in Peace” (#lip). We walk along busier streets, and stop in at a few businesses along the way to say hello. We’ve been amazed at how many drivers smile, honk, wave, or give the “peace” sign in support when they see the group. Want to join in? You’ll have one more opportunity on Saturday, September 28. The final block party of the season will be combined with our church picnic. We’ve been promised a traditional “Lutheran church basement” dish, along with chicken drummies, beer-battered shrimp, corn on the cob, watermelon, and other surprises. Our mission partners at Mount Calvary Lutheran in Excelsior will join us, along with City Council member Philippe Cunningham and Sasha Cotton, the director of the city’s violence prevention program. We’ve also invited the Lind-Bohanon, Shingle Creek, and Webber-Camden neighborhood associations to come. So, we expect the Peace Walk to be larger than ever. On that same weekend, Sunday, September 29 is Rally Day! We’ll have worship outside under the tent (weather permitting), and be joined by New Mount Calvary partners. You’ll have a chance to sign up for Sunday School and Confirmation classes. This year Confirmation will expand to an “intergenerational” model, so families can accompany confirmands in and learn and deepen their faith together. We’ll meet right after church each Sunday. Want to know more? Talk to Pastor Barb! Our Wednesday Community Dinners have moved inside now, as the weather turns cooler and darkness descends earlier and earlier. These dinners are a great chance to meet our neighbors, enjoy some great food, and take some more food home! You’ll especially want to mark your calendar for October 16, when Attorney General Keith Ellison will join us, along with Sasha Cotton. |
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