Welcome to Christ Lutheran e-news, a weekly electronic newsletter which highlights programs and activities of our congregation. Feel free to .

 
Rain, rain, go away, come again another day. We so desperately need rain, but its timing has thrown a wrench into our plan for an outdoor, in-person service of Evening Prayer the last two Sundays. Thanks to Tom and the musicians who have spent many hours in preparation, to Dorothy and Jim Nail, who hung colorful quilts to create a more worshipful space, and all who had a hand in preparing for a safe gathering.

Watch for news about a possible rescheduling.
  
 
 
Adult Formation
We postponed discussion of Immigration Nation, the Netflix documentary spread over six hour-or-so-long segments, in order to see an interview with co-directors Christina Clusiau and Shaul Schwarz. Watch on your own schedule, and join us for conversation via Zoom Wednesday, August 26, at 7:00 p.m. Contact Pr. Bourret for an invitation: [email protected]
 
View the official trailer here:   

See a review (about 10 minutes) here:  
Call to Action
 
Metrowest Immigration Solidarity Network 

Our partner in immigration justice, the Metrowest Immigration Solidarity Network, is supporting "Learning Happens Everywhere," an event that engages "at-promise" children and youth in Framingham. Click here to learn more about the event:  
 
  
Click here for a wish-list of supplies available on Amazon:   
  
 
ELCA Action Alert
 
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us, but it has not affected all of us equally, rather, exposing and exacerbating inequities that exist between rich and poor, white people and people of color.
 
The ELCA Advocacy Network urges consideration of a temporary 15% increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. From the ELCA Advocacy blog:
 
We are grateful for the engagement of ELCA bishops and network members who reached out to key leaders about advancing the temporary SNAP increase. House, Senate and Administration leaders are making steady progress over a compromise economic spending bill. However, resolving widespread differences between the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act (HEROES) passed in the House and the proposed Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection and Schools Act (HEALS) introduced in the Senate before taking the break could stall the process deep into the traditional summer recess.
 
Lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives are seeking to reconcile differences between bills proposed in their respective chambers. To advocate for this and other considerations in the assistance package, use this Action Alert.
Looking Ahead
 
While we are unable to gather around one table to celebrate Holy Communion, we can share a sacred meal at our own tables, and gather virtually, via Zoom. Join your siblings in Christ for an Agape Meal, also known as a Love Feast, on Thursday, September 10, at 6:30 p.m. Watch the September Reporter for details.
 
 
"God's work, Our hands" is an annual day of service on September 13 promoted by the ELCA. Even though we are physically distant, we can act together, serving our neighbors. Our goal is for every member to participate in some way. Donate money, make a health kit, write a letter, pray every day. These are just a few ideas and more details for projects will follow. While we will not be working shoulder to shoulder on this day, we will collectively celebrate all the ways we express our faith by doing God's work with our hands. Take a picture of yourself with a representation of your work or a sign that says "God's Work. Our Hands." We'll put them together in slide show to celebrate our strength in numbers! Watch for more details!
 
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Martha Cronin ( [email protected]), Celeste Larson ([email protected]) or Edie Lohr ([email protected]).
READINGS FOR THIS WEEK - 13th Sunday after Pentecost
 
August 30, 2020

In last week's gospel reading, Jesus praised his disciple Peter. This coming week, Jesus rebukes him, calling him Satan. Come to hear this continuation of Matthew's story, and receive the life that only Jesus can give.

                  First Reading                      Psalm                     Second Reading                     Gospel
               Jeremiah 15:15-21             Psalm 26:1-8                Romans 12:9-21             Matthew 16:21-28
Sing For Joy
Enhance your understanding of the weekly scripture readings by listening to Sing For Joy from St. Olaf College.  The Sing For Joy radio program, produced by St. Olaf College, has a simple mission: to explore the weekly themes of Christian worship by providing the best in sacred choral music and thoughtful commentary. The musical performances eloquently "do the talking," while the concise remarks from host Pastor Bruce Benson illuminate the meaning of the texts.
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