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We are a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. As part of the one Body of Christ, we welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us.
-Disciples Identity Statement
Dear Prairie Avenue Family,
Happy Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start of the summer season. "Decoration Day" was first observed in 1868, proclaimed by John Logan, Commander in Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Union veterans organization established in Decatur. There were previous local practices of decorating graves of loved ones in springtime throughout the United States (the outpouring of floral arrangements to be presented at Lincoln's funeral train stops made funeral flower presentations the social norm for expressing grief). My earliest memories of Memorial Day weekend were traveling to several family graves with my grandparents to plant flowers in graveside urns or place arrangements, a practice I continue. I share with you a prepared prayer provided from the Sons of the American Revolution to observe the holiday at the close of this note and encourage you to attend local Memorial day observances.
This week, we will explore the characteristic beliefs of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Our scripture reading is the Ascension of Jesus in the book of Acts, the second volume of Luke's gospel. Since it is traditionally read on the 40th day of Easter (always a Thursday), we rarely discuss this explicit description (one of two, and they conflict). With Jesus leaving, we are left to share the faith through instruction and practice.
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST SERIES CONTINUES THIS SUNDAY: The ascension of Jesus marks the end of Jesus' presence among the disciples following the resurrection, with concluding questions, instructions, and the task of serving as witnesses until his return. Being a witness requires some evidence of faith and practice. Two guiding concepts have marked and shaped the life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) from our beginnings in the early nineteenth century to the present. One is the essential unity of all Christians, regardless of our denominational structures and distinctive practices. The other was the authority of the Bible, especially in the witness and testimony of the New Testament. Our emphasis on baptism of believers by immersion, congregational self-government, the ministry of all believers, and proclaiming the message into the world is drawn from these guiding concepts. Join us as we explore how this shapes our identity and informs our faith development and formation.
PENTECOST SPECIAL OFFERING JUNE 1 & 8: The Pentecost Offering supports Disciples new church development. Planning, nurturing and sustaining new congregation is part of the Disciples’ vision. This offering supports the specialized ministry of new church development through both regional and general programs. Gifts for this offering are divided equally between the region in which they are given and the New Church Ministry.
DOVE, INC. OUTREACH PROJECT: Our collection is diapers (all sizes) and/or personal hygiene items.
DOVE CHRISTMAS CARE & SHARE TEEN/PRE-TEEN GIFT DRIVE: We reached out to Dove to get a list of suggested gifts for teens and pre-teens in their Christmas gift program. Here are suggestions from a MacArthur High School teacher who asked teens: Throw pillows, Back support pillows, Blankets, Makeup, Skin care and pimple stickers, Tumblers, Strip or string lights, Journals and fun pens, Games (Jenga, cards), Belt bags, Soccer balls, Slime, Nail polish and press on nails, Bead and friendship bracelet (could also be tween). We will begin collecting items now for the December program.
ASSEMBLY REGISTRATIONS OPEN: The General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) will gather in person from Saturday, July 12th to Tuesday, July 15th, 2025, in Memphis, TN. This year’s General Assembly theme: “BEYOND” is based on Ephesians 3:20-21.
Now to the one who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to the power that is at work within us, to them be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen!
Visit the General Assembly website for registration and housing information.
The Joint-Regional Assembly of the Christian Church in Illinois and Wisconsin and Michigan Regions (soon to re-emerge as Living Waters Region) will be held Friday, October 3 & Saturday, October 4, at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, IL. For more information, click here.
WEEKLY PRAYER LIST: Congregations: Barneys Prairie Christian Church, IL; First Christian Church Mt Carmel, IL; First Christian Church Henry, IL; Lomax Christian Church, IL; Cowden Lake Christian Church, Coral MI Health: Dane Hodges, Donald Humphries, Virginia Johnson, Paul Kater, Sondra Lehew, Scott Marland, Charlotte Sutman, Debbie Volle Community: Decatur Public Schools, Galloway, Nelson, and Clokey Park neighborhoods Sympathy: Family of Karin Rasor (Tonda Atchason's sister-in-law), 5/11. Global Ministries: Philippines
SALVATION ARMY FOOD PANTRY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS: We are currently seeking volunteers to assist with various pantry operations, including sorting and organizing food donations, assembling food boxes, and helping with distribution. Whether you can give a few hours a week or help during a one-time event, your support would make a meaningful impact.
Volunteer Shifts Available:
Tuesdays 4pm-6pm
Thursdays 4pm-6pm
Saturdays 8am-10am
Contact: Mindy Aguilar at 217-428-4672 or email at Mindy.Aguilar@usc.salvationarmy.org
Address: 137 S. Church St Decatur, IL 62523
REGIONAL MINISTER SEARCH COMMITTEE UPDATE: We began with a slate of 16 candidates and identified six strong individuals to interview. Following the initial interviews, one candidate withdrew, and the committee has invited three candidates to participate in in-person interviews, which will take place by the end of May. Afterward, the committee will enter a period of prayerful individual and collective discernment.
We invite you to join us in continued prayer for wisdom and clarity—for the committee and for each candidate—as we seek the person God is calling to serve as Regional Minister in this new and emerging Region.
~Sandy Harvey, chair
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