August 2, 2009

Are You Hungry?

The day after the after the feeding of the 5000 the people awoke reflecting on what had happened the day before. During a time of food scarcity to feel full and have a sense of wellbeing was a rare thing. The people wanted more of this so they went in search of Jesus.
Jesus tells them, “Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”
They don’t know exactly how to work for this food and ask how they may obtain it?
Jesus answers, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
Similarly in our lives, the more we see the more we want. We are actually spiritually hungry. Sometimes we think that we get enough of whatever it is we want we’ll be satisfied.
Jesus tells us if we seek him things will be different. If we recognize that the deep hunger is spiritual hunger we can seek God for our true fulfillment.
The feeding of the 5000 was a sign that through Jesus we can come to God and find all that our hearts desire at the deepest level-love, peace, meaning, hope, joy, and the strength to persevere. ***
SCRIPTURES


OFFERTORY
Guest soloist Royce Files favored us with his saxophone rendition of, I Love the Lord.

Royce (middle) is pictured with his grandfather,Heager Hill(left) and his father, Melvin Files (right)

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GENERAL CONVENTION REPORT BY MARC SMITH

Marc Smith gives his report from the General Convention

During a pot luck lunch after morning service Marc Smith reported on his trip to the General Convention held in Anaheim, California. This is the fourth time Marc has served as deputy for the Diocese. Marc’s presentation included audio visuals and thorough explanation of topics. His distribution of handouts further enhanced understanding and appreciation for the significant subjects presented at General Convention. Discussion followed the presentation led by Rev. Scott-Wingo.
For more information on the General Convention click here.

Parishioners enjoy lunch during presentation by Marc Smith

Rev. Sara-Scott Wingo will lead a biblically based discussion at St. Mark's on Tuesday evening, August 4, 2009 at 6:00 PM. This discussion is an extension from the conversations shared referencing "same gender blessings" during Sunday's Pot-Luck-Luncheon Meeting while reviewing the 76th General Convention held in Anaheim, California.
***ANNOUNCEMENTS

PFC Higgins

Congratulations to PFC Cleophus James Higgins!
Cleophus is the son of Deacon Carolyn Foster and grandson of Mrs. Alice Long. They, along with his Aunt, Stephanie Whitlock and cousin Stareka Burroughs were privileged to attend his graduation ceremony On July 23rd in Texas! Please keep "Jamie" and his family in your prayers.
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+The Jonathan Daniel Pilgrimage in Hayneville is Saturday, August 8th at the Lowndes County Courthouse at 11 a.m. Our own Voices of Praise have been asked to sing for the Eucharist again this year. Dain and Constance Perry, featured in the film Traces of the Trade, will give the homily. If you have not attended this important Civil Rights event sponsored by the Diocese, please plan to attend. Carolyn will coordinate a caravan for those interested and we are especially encouraging intergenerational participation.
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+ The renovation of the rectory is almost complete. Our next step is to get a volunteer paint crew to paint the fascia and soffits all around the house. Check with the men of the church on progress and where help is needed. We give thanks for the generosity of our anonymous donor.

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+Adoption Request- Rev. Scott-Wingo was
notified by an adoption agency that they have several African American babies they are looking to place with married couples. If you know of any couples who are considering adoption, put them in touch with Rev. Scott-Wingo
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+St. Mark’s Men and Boys- Anthony Joseph has volunteered to plan some fun activities this year for the men and boys of our parish. Rev. Scott-Wingo is asking all the men and boys of the parish to support this ministry with their participation. Feel free to contact Anthony if you want to help with the planning.

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AUGUST BIRTHDAYS



Royce Files


Allison Finley


Minnie Finley


Gwen Flood

A belated birthday wish to the St. Mark's Church blog. July marked one year of blogging.
Match The Sons and Fathers
SONS
A
B
C
D
FATHERS
1

2
3

4

Answers
Son A: Father 3
Son B: Father 1
Son C: Father 4
Son D: Father 2
END***