January 14, 2023

 

As we approach Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday, our lectionary texts for this Sunday call us to make a difference in the world. How appropriate it will be to have Anne Allen Westbrook leading us in our prayer time this Sunday. Anne Allen was recently elected to the Georgia House District 163, and she went to Atlanta this week to start serving in the Georgia House of Representatives. For many years, we have seen Anne Allen hard at work as a wife, mother, attorney, and community organizer. She has especially championed the work of Mom's Demand Action which works at public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence. Please be praying for Anne Allen and her work in Atlanta. We also lift up her husband, Todd Baiad and their children: Paul, Philip, and Smith. 

Although we celebrate Dr. King's birthday on Monday, his actual birthday will be Sunday, January 15th. In my sermon, I will be highlighting one of his mentors, Dr. Howard Thurman. Thurman was a Christian mystic, theologian, scholar, minister, teacher and author. He was incredible at blending spirituality and social justice. He has a lot to teach us during this time when there is so much polarization and hopelessness. I look forward to sharing his wisdom with you.

We will be having New Member Classes the last two Sundays in January. If you are looking for a church home or if you simply want to learn more about the church and its ministries, we would love to have you with us.

The two sessions are held after our church service. Our wonderful Hospitality Team supplies lunch for the participants. Candace Jenkins and I will facilitate the meetings. If you are interested in participating, tell Candace on Sunday or call or email the church office.

We will be celebrating the life of Asbury member, Jim Utsey, at Asbury tomorrow, Saturday, at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Nelle Bordeaux, who was a close friend of Jim's, will be participating in the service. We continue to lift up Val and Jim's family in our prayers.

I look forward to experiencing sabbath with you on Dr. King's birthday!

Love & Blessings,
Billy