Practicing Faith

Throughout the year, this section of the newsletter will include ways for you to practice your Christian faith in your everyday life.

The Examen, from St. Francis

Preparation:
Do what helps you to experience unconditional love. You might imagine yourself in your favorite place with someone you trust, such as a friend or with God.

You may wish to begin by lighting a candle. Then, put your feet flat on the floor. Take a few deep breaths from the bottom of your toes, up through your legs, your abdominal muscles, and your chest. Breathe in that unconditional love, and when you breathe out, fill the space around you with that love.

1.Place your hand on your heart and ask God to bring to your heart the moment today for which you are the most grateful. If you could relive one moment, which one would it be? When were you most able to give and receive love today?

Ask yourself what was said and done in that moment that made it so special. Breathe in that gratitude you felt and receive life again from that moment.

2.Ask God to bring to your heart the moment today for which you are least grateful. When were you least able to give and receive love?
Ask yourself what was said and done in that moment that made is so difficult. Be with whatever you fell without trying to change or fix it in anyway. You may wish to take deep breaths and let God’s love fill you just as you are.

3.Give thanks for whatever you have experienced. If possible, share as much as you wish of these two moments with a friend.


Open the Scripture. Give voice to your faith, and your questions.
The Monday evening and Thursday afternoon (only Thursday, February 2, 9 and 16th – then no Thursday study during lent) studies are currently discussing the Gospel and/or New Testament reading for the upcoming Sunday.

Your wisdom may even show up in the sermon! Meet in the Fellowship Hall: Monday at 7:30pm or Thursday at 2:00pm.


ECO-Palms for Palm Sunday Worship
For this Palm Sunday will again order “Eco-Palms” direct from Lutheran World Relief. Eco-Palms give more money to palm harvesters and protect the environment. This means more children finish school,
families can afford healthcare and the forest will continue to provide income for generations to come.

Remember We Who are Hungry
Donations of non-perishable food items help stock the Nutley Food Pantry, as well as provide emergency food aid to our neighbors. Please place donations in the basket in the narthex to help those of us who are hungry!

A Food Pantry Shopping List:

canned fruit, canned vegetables, tuna fish, box of pasta, pasta sauce, 1-can meals
tomato paste, bar soap, toilet paper