Like some of you, my childhood church school lessons featured storytelling with the magic of flannelgraph characters. For those new to this phenomenon, it was high technology! A piece of board was covered with flannel fabric, then paper cutouts with flannel or other adhesive backing would be moved around on the board to tell a story. Jesus’ disciples came alive in a boat-blowing windstorm. Moses led the Israelites through the Red Sea. Biblical stories became more accessible to my young mind, and I’m sure those felt figures helped spark my love of scripture.
Technology has certainly changed. Throughout the pandemic I’ve been recording a Monday scripture video that focuses on the Bible reading for the upcoming Sunday service. I honestly thought these videos were mostly for me, reading the text aloud and ruminating on first impressions of the text helped start my week well. Since then, I’ve learned that many of you have been watching those videos on Facebook—who knew! I know not everyone inherited my flannel-board inspired appreciation for scripture, but clearly many of us still seek meaning in the stories of our faith.
Bible Study classes at First Congregational have been hit-or-miss over the last few years, as we haven’t found a time that fits for many, yet encountering the text can be a fulfilling spiritual practice. Starting next week, we’re going to experiment with asynchronous (not at the same time) Bible Study. I’ll post my Monday scripture video to YouTube, and those who sign up will receive an email that it’s been posted. When you have time, you can watch the video then respond in the comments—what are your first impressions of the passage? What dismayed you? What haven’t you heard before? I’ll respond to your comments, and we’ll go back and forth. Perhaps it’ll be our version of the flannel board?
The first week’s notice will come to all of you—you’ll just need to reply to that message to be placed on the ongoing weekly list. I’m excited to see what you’ll have to share about the texts (though, careful: some of it may end up in a sermon…). :-)
In anticipation, Sharon
Ministry Highlight: Annual Meeting
We’re getting close to our February 12 Annual Congregational Meeting, and that means we’re finalizing a 2023 Funding Plan (budget) to present to the congregation. If you haven’t yet had a chance to turn in a pledge card, please prayerfully consider if you’re able to make a gift at this time. Last year we received over $70,000 in pledges during January/February. We know the gifts are there and that this is a generous congregation—thank you for helping us prepare a balanced budget for mission and ministry funding this year. Your pledge matters so much.
Click here to pledge in Breeze: E-Pledge form. To download a hard copy form you can print and return by postal mail, click here: Pledge Form.
If you've pledged and didn't receive a thank you card, email office@fccb.net.
