We hope that everyone has stayed warm and safe throughout this crazy winter week! This Sunday we will continue in the season of Epiphany while also celebrating baptisms together. We would also like to draw you attention to the Safe Conversations workshop that is happening at the church next Saturday. The goal is to learn about how to talk without criticism, listen without judgement and connect beyond your differences. Although it is geared towards couples, it is also helpful in the work place, in family, in life. You'll learn how to connect in a safe way so that you can communicate effectively. Clay and Sonja Arnold will be leading the workshop who have had many years of diverse ministry experience. We hope that you will consider joining us!
The Conversion of Paul the Apostle
Yesterday (Wednesday, January 25) was the celebration of St. Paul's conversion which projects us to continue in this season of Epiphany. Through Paul's conversion we are able to see the glory of Christ residing in and through a human and then used to ripple outwards into the world. Through each persons unique story, just as Paul's is unique, God is able to make Himself known among the nations.
The Conversion of Paul the Apostle Collect: O God, by the preaching of your apostle Paul you have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world: Grant, we pray, that having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, we may show ourselves thankful to you by following his holy teaching; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Continuing The Season Of Epiphany
Psalm 139
1 Lord, you have searched me out and known me; you know my sitting down and my rising up; you discern my thoughts from afar.
2 You trace my journeys and my resting‑places and are acquainted with all my ways.
3 Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, but you, O Lord, know it altogether.
4 You press upon me behind and before and lay your hand upon me.
5 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain to it.
6 Where can I go then from your Spirit? where can I flee from your presence?
The Lamb of God
This past week we celebrated the Epiphany, remembering the magi who journeyed from the east to see Jesus. Their intention to worship Jesus tells us something about who he is and why he has come. Jesus’s identity and his mission is what Epiphany is all about, and this Sunday we will see John the Baptist point to Jesus and say, “This is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
Feast of Epiphany
This Sunday we will be celebrating the Feast of Epiphany where, at the heart of it, we will talk about how we should take everything we've learned in the Advent season and share it to the world. We will be exploring this through this weeks passage, Isaiah 60.
A big facility update is that Dallas Academy is temporarily moving in to the Redeemer building because of some severe water damage in their high school building. We would really value your prayers for St. Barts, the staff at St. Barts, and especially for Katie as she navigates sharing the space. Prayers for Redeemer and their pastor Forest Wilson as they take on more. Prayers for the teachers, parents, and students at Dallas Academy.
The Holy Name
As we all walk into 2023 this Sunday we hope that you are able to take time to reflect on what the Lord has done in your life over this past year just as we have been reflecting on the changes and growth of St. Barts. What things are you grateful for? What was really difficult? Have you missed the work of God? And now coming next is the second Sunday of the Christmas season, also called The Holy Name. We will be taking the time to remember Jesus as a faithful member of the covenant of Israel; His name means Savior and reflects His mission.
Thank you to all who have been prayerfully considering giving to the ministry at St. Barts. We hope that you will continue to pray that we will be able to meet our projected 25% of the years budget.
Christmas Eve Service
The Festivals of Lessons and Carols Service was such a delight as we got to experience the coming of Jesus in such a musically meaningful way. If you missed it feel free to check out the recording if you missed it! This Saturday for the Christmas Eve service we will recognize that the Lord began to prepare for the coming of His son from the very beginning. What power that the God of creation has made Himself known in the form of helplessness, dependence, a baby.
Thank you to all who have been prayerfully considering giving to the ministry at St. Barts. We hope that you will continue to pray that we will be able to meet our projected 25% of the years budget.
A Taste Of The Carols
This Sunday we are approaching Advent 4 where we will continue with the Christmas story and will celebrate the mystery of the birth of Jesus and again recognize God's Old Testament promises that point to the one who did come. We are also so excited for the Festivals of Lessons and Carols evening service which begins at 6pm. There will be childcare provided for children 5 and below, otherwise the rest of the family is welcome! Be sure to register how many people plan to come!
It would be greatly appreciated if those who are joining us for the Lessons of Festivals and Carols could sign up to bring a dessert or could help set up 30 minutes beforehand.