I am sending out last week’s edition which I simply could not complete, with the ever-changing dynamics of any vibrant community of faith. Have a retrospective look at last week’s Pastor’s Pulse and do not hesitate to offer comments, if you wish to share anything.
We regret that the “virtual sanctuary” was unable to see or hear most of the worship services, last Sunday. I have received feedback regarding that. I certainly missed receiving your prayer cards and comments in the CHAT during the service. We are striving to correct these A/V issues so that those who are not joining us in-person can actively participate in the worship. We missed you.
Last Saturday, it was my delight and privilege to participate in the Help by Phone Ltd, Charity Luncheon at the Maryland Hall on the campus of Riderwood Village. This invitation came from Board member, Ron Dobson, our own GCC Board of Missions member. The event was lovely and informative. I appreciated the warmth and hospitality of Help by Phone Executive Director Pamella Miller. There was a slide show detailing how the organization serves the community and an acknowledgement of Greenbelt Community Church as a congregational partner.
Pastor Aubra and Help by Phone Executive Director, Pamella Miller
Music TAGE on Steel, a steel band and by Dr. Ria Yang, Pianist.
My granddaughter even won a door prize of mums for her raffle ticket!
One of our GCC members, after worship, shared with me that Help by Phone is now responding to many of our close neighbors and friends within a short distance of GCC, as the government layoffs and terminations persist. If you would like to support these efforts, here’s some info from the organization to facilitate your contributions and volunteerism: “Due to the current administration’s cuts to FEMA and EFSP, Help by Phone (www.helpbyphone.org) is in dire need of donations and financial support to continue its mission. Here is a link to donate electronically via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=EL39CGXKL3RUJ&source=url”
Lectionary Readings for Upcoming Sunday, October 12th:
Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7; 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c; Psalm 111; Psalm 66:1-12;
2 Timothy 2:8-15; Luke 17:11-19
Next worship service: Please join us in worship for this Sunday’s worship service. Our Greenbelt Community Church Choir, under the direction of Dr. Wei-Der Huang, will offer an anthem of praise, “Fairest Lord Jesus”, arranged by M. McDonald. I will preach the fourth in our “God, Self and Neighbor” sermon series, based on the following scriptures, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 and Luke 17:11-19. The message is entitled, “Lifelines of Hope and Gratitude in a Strange Land”. We welcome our Lay Readers, “Young Disciple” Will W., David Alexander, and Mike Crompton. Much appreciation to our ushers and worship assistants.
Prayer List, with Joys and Concerns:
Ron and Lucy D. are recovering from Covid. Condolences to Danny, in the passing of Dana. Prayers for peace during the life changes and adjustments. Jane C’s neighbor who has been evicted. Donna G. for Isaiah and Jared as they navigate the joys, challenges and responsibilities of adulting. Kirby for Dana F. and health issues. Anne for Dan J. in Ohio with chronic health concerns. Butch and Beth N., Thyra P.; and Kenny P., Rhonda, Christine S., Marty F., Ken C., Gil L., Anne G., Jim T., Gwen V., Joyce P, Larry V., William and Phyllis S., Nancy G., and Sue N.
We also pray for all mental health warriors (those struggling and those helping). We lift up prayers for the starving people of Gaza caught in a genocidal conflict. We pray for all young persons who have been made homeless due to gender identity and/or expression. In October- Domestic Violence Awareness Month-we offer prayers for women and children made homeless due to intimate partner violence. We pray for veterans of war and the formerly incarcerated returning to communities with no place to shelter or experience a circle of love. We pray for all who are dying of starvation; those suffering with AIDs due to the closure of USAID. We pray for a reign of peace and healing for Ukraine. O God, we pray for those who have lost their jobs and those who live in fear of losing their jobs. We ask for protection for all whose freedoms are being taken by our government. We offer prayers for the Seventh Day Adventist congregation who share our space at the Greenbelt Community Church.
In grace and peace, beloved,
Pastor Aubra
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