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Dear Saint Mark Family,
I pray you are well, and you are enjoying the long days of summer.
Let me begin by stating our unequivocal support for our Jewish siblings, both here in the state of Georgia and across the country. We acknowledge and honor the truth that they are made in the image of God, are of sacred worth, and have the same unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as everyone else in this country. We do not, and will never support anyone or any group of people who tries to deny them these rights.
As United Methodists, we live by the covenant of our baptismal vows to “resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.” Last Saturday, antisemitic protesters gathered outside of The Chabad Synagogue in East Cobb, holding signs of terror, and spewing hate filled words against our Jewish siblings. Such actions are totally unacceptable, and should be deemed illegal. While Americans have the privilege of the right to free speech, it should never be to the harm, detriment, or terrorization of others. The protesters actions promoted evil, and we resist such actions.
As ones who have suffered the threats and violence of those who promote hate, we will stand with those who marginalized. Jesus sided with the marginalized and the vulnerable, and we are committed to do the same.
Summer is here, and starting Sunday, July 9th, we will bring back our “Punch on Peachtree” fellowship immediately after the 11am service. This will be a great time to take a breather, sip lemonade, have a cookie, and catch up with each other and get to know some of our newest members. I am looking forward to these Sundays.
I also want to remind you that July 9th the 9am service will resume worshiping in the chapel. The renovations are completed, so we can resume our worship experience in this beautiful space. We have heard so many comments about the beauty of the chapel, and the eager desire to be back. We will be on the 9th.
Saint Mark, I will take this moment to brag on you. This past Wednesday we hosted the General Board of Higher Education Ministry, one of the agencies of our denomination, along with the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities at our church. They were here for the opening worship of their annual meeting, which is held here in Atlanta this year. Bishop Dease, our resident bishop, along with two other bishops, and a number of college presidents and other dignitaries of Methodist institutions attended.
Our greeters and volunteer ambassadors gave such excellent and radical hospitality to our guests that nearly all who attended, if not everyone, told me how blown away there were by the warmth with which they were welcomed. The number of compliments I received about our church and the members who volunteered was simply wonderful. Thanks to all the greeters and volunteers who showed up and showed how radically welcoming and hospitable Saint Mark is. You all made me proud. Thank you.
Let me share one final note with you. This Sunday we will only have one service at 10am, as usual for a holiday weekend. We will also begin our Summer in the City sermon series, titled “God in the Movies,” and this Sunday we will begin with “The Lion King.” You may have watched it before and need a refresher, or you may never have seen it and need to watch it, either way I would recommend you take the time to see it. Here is a clip:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYsvH9cj66M
I invite you to come on out and let us worship together. If you are traveling for the holidays, safe travels, and please join us online.
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