Dear Faith Des Peres Friends,
This Sunday we’re celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation! Yes, it’s been 500 years since Martin Luther posted his 95 theses on the church door. It’s been 500 years since he publicly took issue with things the Catholic Church was teaching, one of which was the sale of indulgences. (The sale of indulgences was the practice of people paying the priest in order to be forgiven their sins.) Luther believed we’re saved by God’s grace – that there’s nothing we need to do or can do to be forgiven. God forgives because God is gracious.
So, in honor of Luther (and in keeping with the sermon series), this Sunday I’m preaching on the line from the Apostles’ Creed “I believe in the forgiveness of sin”. Maya Angelou once said “It's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.” And that’s true – and is something I’ll talk about more on Sunday. This weekend and in the week to come, prayerfully ask God to help you to forgive others. Demonstrate your forgiveness at home, at work and in your social settings by acting kindly and gracefully toward those who you have felt have abused you. Doing so will set you free.
Last Friday night a number of us gathered for the annual bonfire. It was a fun night, and I want to thank Jim Gerst, Kathy Sherrick and Mary Lewis for doing all the prep work. Nothing says Fall like a bonfire!
Last, if you haven’t sent in a picture of your saint, there’s still time. But please do it ASAP! You can email your pictures to Tiara.
I hope to see you Sunday!
Annie