Each of us has a story – a narrative of personal identity comprising our struggles and triumphs, our joys and sorrows, and the persons and places which have filled our life. We write new chapters as we respond to circumstances and events beyond our control or accomplish goals through careful planning and diligent effort. Occasionally, we share our story with others or listen to their stories and so are drawn closer together. It is through the sharing of personal stories that community is born.
Our story is but one in an anthology of stories. We hear other stories on the evening news, watch them on television, play them out in video games or read them in books. Stories shape us. They influence the formation of our world-view, mold our identity, and can transmit powerful life lessons and values to us.
Persons who wish to pattern their lives after Jesus’ example should know the stories of his life and the stories from scripture which shaped Jesus’ world as well or better than they know the plot and characters of popular movies, games and television series. Such familiarity is of inestimable help in placing one’s own story into the context of God’s story and the story of those seeking to follow Jesus.
East Hills Moravian Church is committed to helping persons learn of Christ and gain new – or renewed – appreciation for biblical stories. We have a full range of Sunday School classes for all ages including three very different options for adults, a traditional bible study, a discussion class, and a parenting class.
On Rally Day, September 13 at 9:45 am, we will meet in the Family Center to introduce our theme for Christian education for this year: “I Love to Tell the Story.” The title is borrowed from an old gospel hymn (#625) that many of our members know and enjoy. We will hear members of the congregation share favorite bible stories from a first person perspective at multiple stations in the Family Center and enjoy a time of celebration and fellowship. Worship at 8:30 am and 11:00 am will also incorporate the same theme and hymn.
Also, please note an orientation for youth and their parents wishing to learn more about preparatory classes for the Rite of Confirmation will be held in the Sanctuary Sunday, September 20 at 6:30 pm. East Hills offers a two year program of discovery and instruction which meets the first and third Sundays of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. The Rite of Confirmation is held annually on Pentecost Sunday which, in 2016, falls on May 15.
- Pastor Derek French