Weekly News from Zion and our Ministries Under the Cross, especially Evergreen Academy

October 19, 2022

We Are Officially an RIC Congregation!

Dear Zion Community,

I am breaking my own personal rule – no work while on vacation – to send you this most recent update (Tuesday at 10:00 p.m.).

According to the most updated count, we have adopted the RIC designation with unanimous approval of our Congregation Council and an 88% approval from the 40 members who voted as part of our worshipping community, both in person and online. (For those keeping track, the number of people who voted is double our weekly in-person attendance and far exceeds the quorum we would need for a called congregational meeting!)

We respect everyone's right to their personal beliefs, and do not wish to change anyone's mind. This is the beauty of the ELCA: the ability to coexist and still do ministry together. Organizationally, we will be leaning into this new piece of our identity, even as we also lean into the images of Zion as a family, community, and a place of spiritual refuge for all.

Please join us as we affirm this new designation as a Reconciling in Christ congregation at our worship on Reformation Sunday, October 30th.

Personally, I have been reflecting during this process about the anointing of Joshua as the leader and successor to Moses. By taking this bold step in faith (as Joshua did), we are "opening the doors" to the next generation of people to take up the mantle of leadership at Zion. Consider what Moses says to Joshua:

"Be strong and bold...It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." (Deuteronomy 31:7-8 NRSV)

It is my hope and prayer that together we will be bold for the sake of the gospel, and look to the future of Zion with "good courage." God is with us!

In Christ,

Cantor Kurt R. Schmidt

Beginning Sunday, November 13th

During our Sunday morning worship, we will pray for all in need of healing and offer anointing for healing during the service. Please plan to attend and invite those you know who are in need of healing of body, mind, and spirit.

For those who worship with us exclusively online: you will have an opportunity to anoint yourself (or together with your family) using the blessings printed in the weekly bulletin. Know that God's healing blessings transcend virtual means!

Opportunities to Serve Joyfully & Give Selflessly

Thank You Already!

Thanks to the generosity of our community members, we have received contributions to cover at least 3 shelving units, the interior cameras, the exterior Ring doorbell, and half of the interior/exterior signage.

These contributions have come from church members and friends of Zion and Deerfield Beach Community Cares. You can help us in a big way! Please ask your family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers if they would like to contribute. People like giving to good causes when they can!

To visit Nina's Place on our website, click here. Especially as we approach the holidays, thank you for spreading the word and for your generosity!

This Sunday: 20th Sunday after Pentecost

Genuine repentance and pretentious piety stand in stark contrast in the gospel and all around us. All creation stands in need of God’s forgiveness. Keep the faith. God’s people shall be accounted righteous for Jesus’ sake. Our God is merciful to sinners. For this we worship and glorify God forever.

Readings

Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22

Psalm 84:1-7

2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18

Luke 18:9-14