Another(!) St. Francis Celebration
A great warm-up to St. John’s Francis Fest is another celebration – a mere block away (from St. John’s) and two days before:
The Gift of St. Francis: Every Living Thing is a Sister or Brother
When: Wednesday, Oct. 4th, 7 p.m.
Where: Community Mennonite Church, 328 W. Orange St., Lancaster
Note: A film crew from London, England will be recording the program
St. Francis’ way of seeing the world is greatly needed. Francis knew the design of life means “we are all connected” and that all need to care for each other and our common home.
- Dance interpretation of “Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace”
- Stories and poems about the beloved saint
- Presentations by local musicians and artists
Bring family and friends!
Hosted by Citizens’ Climate Education of Lancaster
Contact: Rev. Jerry Lee Miller: 717-519-9166, jerry_miller@comcast.net.
A reflection by Jerry Lee:
The oak leaves from the two giant trees are doing their annual migration drifting down this morning as they have been for a couple of weeks.
I thought of the line ‘Nature’s pattern never done’ in the song we’re preparing to sing for the St Francis program.
Trees lose their leaves this time of year and we know they will bud again in the spring.
At a foundational level I believe nature’s pattern is totally reliable. However, on another level, I know things are changing. The climate is breaking down and I feel deep concern.
For our neighbors in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, for many friends in Texas and in Florida …. disruptions to life’s certainties now shape their reality.
The October 4 program can help in these ways:
- An offering will be received for Mennonite Disaster Service. People can designate on their checks either “Maria,” “Irma” or “Harvey.” If they do so, their entire contribution will go to the work of relief for those hit by that monstrous storm. Un-designated checks and cash donations will go to MDS’ Atlantic Hurricane 2017 fund, to be used where needed most.
- The intent of the program is to raise awareness of climate concerns and to build the community movement necessary to address climate change.
- St. Francis provides a great model of one who “heard the cry of the Earth” yet maintained a joyful connection with “every living thing,” all the while following the call to respond. For those looking for a spiritual/moral guide at this critical time, Francis is one of the best.
We will provide active witness on Wednesday. Join us.