NEWSLETTER
Thursday, March 24, 2022
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The Return of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt’s painting The Return of the Prodigal Son, currently hangs in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. The artist was captivated by this parable, creating a variety of drawings, etchings, and paintings on this theme over decades. The figures visible are of some debate but thought to be the father embracing the prodigal, the brother, the mother (bearly visible in the background), and a man whose dress implies wealth, likely a monetary advisor.
Dutch priest Henri Nouwen, after an exhausting lecture tour, returned to L’Arche community in France for rest. There a print of this painting captivated him. After some time of meditation, he was moved to write a book by the same name. Of the three main characters, the father, the prodigal, and the other son, he wrote: Though I am both the younger son and the elder son, I am not to remain them, but called to become the Father.
This is what Nouwen wanted to say about unconditional, mercy-filled love.
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Join us for Worship
Sunday March 27, 2022
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Rev. Dr. Darrell Cluck preaches
"On Not Getting What You Deserve"
Click the photo to view our Sunday service
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March 27, 2022
Opening Hymn: O Jesus Christ, May Grateful Hymns
This text, written for a Convocation of Urban Life in America, was chosen by The Hymn Society for publication in Five New Hymns on the City. Bradford Webster, a Methodist minister
Served churches in his native New York state for forty years. The hymn is set to the tune, CHARTERHOUSE, written in 1927 by David Evans. The text is taken from verses in Matthew 23 and Luke 13.
Prayer Response: O God of Love, O God of Peace
Both words and music of this hymn were composed by Henry W. Baker. A priest of the Church of England, Baker was the first committee chair for Hymns Ancient and Modern, which sold sixty million copies in fifty years. The hymn, based on Isaiah 2:2-4, is set to the tune, HESPERUS, written in 1854.
Gospel Acclamation
We continue to announce the Gospel reading during the season of Lent, with the words "Our bodies, souls and minds need your word as we journey through the wilderness."....May it be that we hear the word of God and live by it.
The Anthem: Far, Far Away from my Loving Father
The anthem is an arrangement by D.H. Clark of an old tune from The Southern Harmony, RESTORATION, to which we sing "I Will Arise and Go to Jesus.” The text is from a 19th-century collection called Gospel Hymns based on the parable of The Prodigal Son, this Sunday’s Gospel lesson.
Communion Anthem: Canon of Peace
A canon is like a round, you are introduced to the melody and then other parts sing it. Here, we have the text so relevant for today….”O God of love and peace, may hate and war throughout the world now cease.” The tune was written by Melchior Franck (1573-1639) and arranged for choir by Hal Hopson.
Closing Hymn: I Danced in the Morning
The hymn was written in 1963 by Sydney Carter who set it to an old American Shaker melody, SIMPLE GIFTS. Carter also harmonized this tune for congregational part singing.
I look forward to worshipping with you this Sunday.
Debi
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LAST WEEK! March Mission Trunk Emphasis:
The Renewal Center
(formerly The Desiard Street Shelter)
Now located at 722 Adams St., Monroe the Renewal Center is a safe place for especially vulnerable people to find haven, help, hope, and ultimately, home. They work with al of the homeless service providers, making our area much more effective in ending homelessness for thousands of families each year.
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Needs: Styrofoam trays (like go plates with three sections), salt-pepper-knife-spoon-fork packages, all of which can be found at Sam’s Club, Dixie cups, toilet tissue, paper towels, Dawn dishwashing liquid, washing detergent.
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The Prayers of the People |
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We pray alongside.....
The oppression and suffering of the innocents in war torn countries.
Our Pastor Search Committee as they continue our search for our next pastor
Those with unspoken prayer requests
Janet Dawson, hospitalized with obstruction
Denzell Denagall approaching hip replacement surgery.
Judy Eddington, dealing with a serious medical condition.
Bill Krutzer, continuing to have critical spinal problems.
Susan Allain, recovering from two heart procedures. Susan added that she "would like to thank everyone at Northminster for their outpouring of love, prayers, and support."
Lola Wheeler recovering from an ankle replacement surgery.
Gail Blackman's sister, Debbie, receiving new treatment for a critical illness.
DH Clark's cousin's wife, Monssarat - acute illness.
Our Brothers and Sisters in Cuba experiencing severe economic hardships, food shortages, and lack of medical equipment to administer Covid-19 vaccines.
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The Celebrations of the People |
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We celebrate alongside.....
Molly Higginbotham (25th), Sandy Harrington (26th), Pat Hayes (27th), Thomas Abadie (28th), Miranda Seal (28th), JoAnn Alley (29th), Amy Sumner (30th), as they celebrates their birthdays.
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If you would like to share something in the newsletter, please call the church office or email office@northmin.org.
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Found in Donated Winter Coat Drive!
These keys were found in the pocket of a sweater that someone donated to the winter clothing drive for the detainees several months ago on a project Mara Loeb was spearheading. The keys are now located in Renee's middle desk drawer. If they are yours, please pick them up.
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Upcoming Easter Activities |
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SUNDAY, APRIL 10
PALM SUNDAY, LUNCHEON, AND EASTER EGG HUNT
All Children and the Parents are invited to join in Northminster's Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon and Easter Egg Hunt on the church lawn following the worship service. The children will also lead the morning procesional into the sanctuary by waving the palm leaves as the choir enters. CONTACT BETH MAYFIELD at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or 348-2529,
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PLASTIC EGGS AND CANDY FILLERS NEEDED BEFORE PALM SUNDAY!
The church needs donations of empty plastic Easter Eggs, along with candy treats our workers can place into them so that the Easter Bunny can hide them for the children! A basket will be present in the Narthex for your donations.
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HOLY WEEK LUNCH MEDITATIONS
"Light in a Dark Time" is our theme for this year's Holy Week Lunch Meditations. Join us from noon until 1pm as we gather for food, fellowship and meditation. The Hospitality Commission will be spearheading the food and if you would like to help, please contact Bobbye Legan at 398-0103 or 267-1900.
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MAUNDY THURSDAY
On Thursday, April 14 at 5pm we will gather in the Memorial Garden's of the Columbarium for Wine & Water followed by a Maundy Thursday service in the sanctuary at 6pm.
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GOOD FRIDAY
On Friday, April 15 at 7pm the Northminster Choir and Friends will present John Rutter's Requiem as we recognize Good Friday.
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Northminster Youth Assistance Needed
Once again Northminster Youth have begun meeting each Sunday at 5pm and this effort is lead by Beth Mayfield. The group has many exciting plans upcoming along with Baptist Youth Camp July 3-8. Beth is requesting help with leading and guiding the youth as they transition to adulthood. If you think this is a ministry you could add to, please contact Beth Mayfield at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or her phone 348-2529.
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Northminster COVID Guidelines
Gov. Edwards did not renew Louisiana's COVID-19 public health order which expired yesterday. The CDC considers Ouachita Parish community level is Medium and recommends the following guidelines: If you are at high risk for severe illness - talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; and get tested if you have symptoms. We continue to follow state and CDC guidelines. The Coordinating Council recommends that immune compromised and unvaccinated individuals, and anyone experiencing cold or other illness symptoms continue to wear masks during our services.
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Northminster's Office Hours Temporarily Changed
The Coordinating Council has made a temporary change to the church office hours. Renee will be working from home on Monday's and Friday's and has full access to phone messages, email, church files and other tools necessary to handle any immediate need.
Please feel free to call her cell phone for quickest assistance: 318-282-7855
Office hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday - 9am to 4pm
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Alliance Annual Business Meeting
The annual meeting of the Alliance of Baptists is a place and time where your presence and voice help give shape and form to the future of our movement for God’s justice and love! Again this year, the meeting will take place on Zoom two weeks before the Annual Gathering.
This year's virtual meeting will be held Saturday, April 9, 2 - 5p EDT. Registration is now open!
We will hear from the nominating committee. We will hear from our board of directors about the state of the Alliance. You will be invited to join new initiatives and share your voice! This is a chance for you to join the collective voice of the Alliance as we shape the future of our movement together!
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Come learn about the Alliance!
Come join your voices with others
in prophetic witness to God’s justice in the world!
Come and engage with others who share your commitment
to the embodiment of God’s justice and love!
d time only" or "only 7 remaining!"
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The 2022 Alliance Annual Gathering
A Virtual Experience
April 22-24, 2022
On Jan. 31, the Alliance announced that the 2022 Annual Gathering will be held 100% virtually. To read more about this decision, click here.
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About the Gathering Theme
For a thousand years, western Christianity has seen the cross through the lens of substitutionary atonement—that Jesus died in our place and reconciled sinful humanity to God. The Annual Gathering seeks to re-examine this theology and explore new atonement ideas through panels, workshops, and worship. The gathering is also an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of rejuvenating fellowship with like-minded followers of the way of Christ.
The planning team is still finalizing changes to the schedule which will be made public soon. Continue to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
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Northminster Book Club
Our next book is, Conjure Women by Afia Atakora. Book Club will meet Thursday, May 12 at 6pm at the home of Debi Chandler, 2005 Stuart Ave., Monroe for potluck and discussion. If you would like to join the Book Club, contact Debi at chandler@ulm.edu
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Snyder Museum Brown Bag Lunch Series
The Snyder Museum in Bastrop is hosting a Brown Bag Lunch Series on Friday, April 1 from noon until 1pm. with Barrett Pepper and Chad Thomas providing musical entertainment. Southern Smoke Slingers will be on site with $5 chicken salad sandwich plates. Bring your picnic blankets and chairs. This is a free concert but are asking donations of discarded eye glasses to use for teh Lions Club Eye Foundation and discussion.
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The Masur Museum of Art: Off the Wall Call For Art
The 13th Annual Off the Wall Fundraiser hosted by the Twin City Foundation to benefit the Masur Museum of Art will be held Friday, April 8 from 6-9pm. The museum is located at 1400 S. Grand St., Monroe. $50 per person.
Artist Packet Submission Deadline is April 4 at 5pm. Artwork Drop-offs accepted April 4-6
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There are only a few tickets remaining for our 6th Annual Empty Bowls event on Saturday, March 26th! Help support the Food Bank's hunger-relief efforts and enjoy a serving of food, art and music!
THERE ARE LESS THAN 20 TICKETS LEFT, so get yours now! As in the past several years, there may not be any tickets available at the door if sold out in advance.
WHEN: Saturday, March 26th, from 11 AM to 1 PM.
WHERE: Monroe Civic Center Arena - 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy, Monroe. Use the main entrance and follow the signs and directions to park.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Attendees will show your email ticket receipt via phone or printout. With your all-inclusive ticket, you can choose a beautiful bowl donated by a local artist.
There will be a delicious tasting from 17 local food and beverage establishments. Food and beverage vendors will be serving tasting size portions of their mouthwatering offerings for all to enjoy. Once again talented local artist Leigh Buffington will be painting a landscape live, which will go to one lucky high bidder in the silent auction. Ceramicist Alyssa Guidry will do a pottery wheel demo. There will also be live music from The Toc Toc Troubadours. One hundred percent of your Empty Bowls ticket purchases go to support the Food Bank's hunger relief efforts in Northeast Louisiana.
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Given to the Glory of God
During the Lenten season the alter remains shrouded with no floral arrangement. Upon the arrival of Easter and the Eastertide season, the flowers will once again grace our altar.
If you would like to give flowers in memory or in honor of someone, please contact the church office. Approximate cost is $100.
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Upcoming Events
This Sunday
9:00 am - Choir Practice
10:00 am - Sunday School for Children (K-5),
Youth, and Adults
10:45 am - Preludes
11:00 am - Sunday Morning Liturgy
4:30 pm - Extra Choir Rehearsal
5:00 pm - Youth
Wednesdays
12:00 pm - Brown Bag Lunch-PERMANENTLY CANCELLED
6:30 pm - Choir practice
Extra Choir Rehearsal and Performance:
Wednesday April 13 at 6:45 Dress Rehearsal
Thursday, April 14 at 6:45 Dress Rehearsal
Friday, April 15 at 7pm John Rutter's Requiem
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Pulpit Supply Schedule
March
27 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
April
3 - Dr. Debi Chandler
10 - Rev. James Lamkin
17 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
24 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
May
1 - Dr. Carl Gregg
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If you have found a space of community, or healing, or hope at Northminster and believe in the work we are doing, please consider supporting us financially so that we will be able to continue creating spaces like this in all the days to come.
To support Northminster financially, you can click here, or scan the QR code with the camera on your phone.
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Northminster Church is located at:
2701 Lamy Lane
Monroe, LA 71201
318-388-3717
office@northmin.org
Temporary Church Office Hours:
Tues -Thurs 9am to 4 pm
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