IT"S HOT!

I’m staying inside as much as possible, counting my blessings that I have air conditioning!   I’m on a prayer chain from Sabeel, The Voice of Palestinian Christians.  Today’s request includes this note: The region has been experiencing a heat wave for the past ten days. Temperatures have soared as high as 39 degrees centigrade,  (that is over 100 F) and with water shortages in the West Bank life has become intolerable for the residents, especially for those who have been rendered homeless because of evictions and demolitions. We pray for cooler temperatures and mercy in the hearts of the occupiers.

Their request also brought to mind the people of Iraq and Afghanistan.  I realize many suffer from heat this time of year, but  some suffer more than others.  We, who have ample water and electricity and air conditioners, need to keep in mind those who, because of circumstances beyond their control, do not.

It is simply by the Grace of God that we are here living in peace and comparative luxury rather than in the midst of violence and oppression.

Count your blessings and drink lots of water.

Pat

THANKS to everyone who helped make the Ice Cream Social a success.  It is an important tradition to Fair Week.

THANKS also, to those who attended and helped with the Hymn Sing on Sunday afternoon.  We hope this simple service of song and blessing will become a Fair Week tradition. This congregation is blessed to be able to serve the community in these ways.

I'm imaging one or more new Bible reading/study groups this fall.  Session has approved the purchase of the Common English Bible, the newest English translation.  It is a refreshing and accessible read, opening fresh insights into the stories we love to tell.    In the fall, we'll set up reading groups (something like the Men's Prayer Breakfast) to read and discuss the text together.  Let us know how many copies you'd like to have and we'll get them ordered next week.

Remember to drink extra water on these hot days!

Pat

God Thank You for this congregation.

Please guide us in what you want us to do.

It promises to be a busy week for me and the heat won't make it any easier.  So, I remind myself and you all to drink lots of water - physically and spiritually.

Mike and I will be attending the Presbytery meeting in Abilene on Tuesday.  Session will meet on Thursday and there will be more to share then.

For right now I want to remind you that the County Fair starts next Sunday with an Ecumenical Song Service at 2:30 at the Swope Park Shelter. I hope you'll come and help us Bless the Fair and enjoy the music of your favorite local musicians.

On Tuesday night the Presbyterians will host the ice cream social.  We still need both cakes and ice cream.  If you weren't at church to sign up, you can reply to either Sheila Cooper or I  by e-mail and we'll put it on the list.  You can borrow an electric cream maker from the church.  It was given by the family of Whitt and Betty Laughridge.  The church freezer is nearly empty if you need to hard your ice cream before the fair.

Take care this week.  I'll be praying for you.

Pat

God thank you for this congregation.

Please guide us in what you want us to do.

The Irelands enjoyed several days at the 219^th General Assembly and then several more camping on the North Shore of Lake Superior.  It was cool there!  We also enjoyed a day at the Prairie Fire Inn watching Rowan learn to ride her new bicycle!

We are back in Chase County today but heading down to Wichita to visit with Peg Busselle who is recuperating from a broken ankle and eye surgery.

We are eager to visit with you all on Sunday at worship followed by lunch.  Kevin Ireland will deliver the message and we’ll celebrate the Lord’s Supper.

Following worship we’ll go down to the cool fellowship hall and enjoy conversation and a salad luncheon.  Session will provide table service, sandwich makings, iced tea and dessert.  You bring a salad to share and we’ll have ample so invite the neighbors and friends.  There are lots of things to talk about, including General Assembly and a new mission/stewardship opportunity we think you’ll enjoy.  Please plan to worship and fellowship with us Sunday, July 18!

Prayers that you are all drinking plenty of water, keeping cool and noticing God's presence with you.

Pat

God thank you for this congregation.

Please guide us in what you want us to do.

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