August 23 Greetings

Dear Ones,

I have to admit, that there are times that this Tuesday email seems almost impossible to write. I find myself sitting in front of my laptop, staring at the curser, blinking off and on. Prayers happen and most of the time, inspiration comes.

Tim sent me this post he saw on Facebook. It moved me, shaking me out of my doldrums, reminding me that I have arrived in this time and place by God’s grace. God has a plan and uses people like me and you to make things happen in the world. So, I ask for these blessings, for discomfort and anger and tears and foolishness. I invite you to be part of the work to make God’s plan for Emmanuel Lutheran in Prescott Valley come to life. Join me in living deep within our hearts, to make a difference in the world, to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.

A Franciscan Benediction

May God Bless you with discomfort

As easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships

So that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger

At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,

So that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless you with tears

To shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger and war,

So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and

To turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough foolishness

To believe that you can make a difference in the world,

So that you can do what others claim cannot be done

To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.

Glorious skies were captured in northwest Chino Valley on Friday, August 19, by Laurie Plourde Sturdy—no filter!

Blessings,

Pr. Tricia

Emmanuel Lutheran Church

Remember to let the church office know if you have any suggestions of people to invite to our 30^th Anniversary celebration, worship service and luncheon on September 18!

Here's the August 21 Contemporary Worship Compilation

Watch Outreach speaker Patty Charley, and sing along with our impromptu Sending Song (after gremlins got into our music setup)! (Thankfully, the gremlins weren't too bad!)