This Sunday’s Gospel • Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
Jesus put before the crowd another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed...[ continue reading ]. Lectionary scriptures are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible.  Virtual worship continues this Sunday, July 26.
Right on Schedule!
At the outset of the Discernment process the committee developed a timeline for events. Right on schedule, our posting has closed and we are delighted to report that there has been a robust response. The Discernment Committee now begins the process of reviewing and considering those who submitted interest. The complete timeline is below.

In case you missed the video update presented to the parish during the July 12 worship service you can watch it online .
Worship Services on YouTube
How are you accessing the weekly worship services? Have you subscribed to the GHTC YouTube channel or are you watching on your smartphone or tablet? To stay up-to-date, be sure to like and follow the church on Facebook .
Regarding Regathering
Church services, even when masks and distancing are used, are proving to be one of the largest vectors for the spread of Covid-19. Following our diocesan guidelines , which aim to protect the most vulnerable among us, Richmond has not yet met the required safety metrics of sustained reduction in infections and deaths. At this time, we do not have a date for regathering for worship or other activities. When it will be possible to regather, strict safety restrictions will require no distribution of Communion and no congregational singing. Your staff and Vestry are reviewing the guidelines and are assessing, thoughtfully and prayerfully, how and when it will be safe for us to regather. Staff continue to work remotely and we will keep you updated through the church website .
GHTC Saturday Virtual Summer Music Camp - Maracas !
By Saturday morning, you can tune in to YouTube here and join in as Julia Terhune leads little ones in making maracas. This week's lesson primer:
Ezekiel was a priest who was also called by God to be a prophet, warning the people that their unfair and unjust treatment of others would have consequences. But God also gave Ezekiel a vision of a valley of dry, dead bones which he was told to prophesy to and they would live again! The bones rattled back to life again as a reminder that God plans to restore all things in glory, even when they have gone very wrong.
Valley of the Dry Bones ( Ezekiel 37:1-14, CEB ) 
Be sure to have 4 plastic spoons, 2 Easter Eggs, 1 small roll of colored tape and 1 bag of either dried beans or rice handy for the craft.
VCU Common Book
Virginia Commonwealth University's common book this year is One Person, No Vote . If you would like to be part of a discussion or Zoom call about the book contact Kim .
Red Door T-Shirt Sales Continue
We only have one week left to order your Red Door T-Shirts. $10.00 per shirt goes towards 5 meals! People are still coming to the church every Friday to pick up a lunch, so please support this important ministry with your purchase.
Planning Ahead During the Pandemic
Over the last few months, the church has received several requests for help in funeral planning. You can find helpful documents  online  to guide you, which includes scripture references. There is also information on the  Columbarium . In case of sudden illness or death it is helpful to have your paperwork in order for this essential act of faith. You can contact the clergy if you need help. If you would like to leave a legacy to the church through your estate, these online resources are helpful.
People and Prayer
Many people are missing their church friends. Did you know you can find them through the website's member center , complete with photos, phone numbers and contact information? If you need assistance accessing the online member information please contact church staff . Also, if you are seeking to strengthen your prayer life during the pandemic, check out these prayer tips .