This Week at Edgewood

Grace to you, and peace...

I was asked to explain Rally Day last week by an EPCer who noted, "All I know is that you get really excited about it."

And I do! It feels like everyone coming home. It feels like the chance for newer folks to find their way in. And lining up all those teachers in worship made me nearly gasp with how many folks are involved in so many ways in making this church community function.

I should report that following the Rally Day fun, the BYG Kickoff was a big success as well. The rain held off long enough to let us play kickball, water balloon games, and engage in other forms of silliness. BYG takes Labor Day weekend off, but resumes on September 8th at First Presbyterian with parents invited to learn about what we're up to this year (and to do some paperwork).

Emily's Semi-Famous Taco Dinner is on the menu for Wednesday night's Fellowship Supper.
And our music program slides back into a normal schedule. So here's the rundown:
5 p.m. -- Handbell Choir rehearsal
6 p.m. -- Supper, with the viewing of our What I Did on My Summer Vacation photos
7 p.m. -- Choir rehearsal

I'll put in a pitch here for our music programs. If you have even an inkling that Handbells and/or Choir might be for you, I encourage you to give it a go this week. Both groups are always excited to welcome new ringers and singers. If you have any questions, let me know.

Men's Bible Study picks up this Friday at 7 a.m. We'll have hot coffee and a treat as we catch up after the summer off and our fearless leader, Kevin Patton, tells us about our first study of the year, a look at the book of Genesis.

Next up is the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. We check in on Paul's letter to the Romans once more before starting our fourth year with the Narrative Lectionary.

We talked a bit about our Sunday School offerings on Rally Day, but here's how things flow:

Immediately following worship, you're invited to a time of hospitality over doughnuts and coffee
During this time, elementary kids will gather with Amanda Klimko for Children's Choir. Check out the first piece they'll be working on!
When you hear the chimes, we head to our classes:
K-2nd grade meet in the classroom next to the nursery
Grades 3-5 meet in the classroom across from the Pastor's Study
Youth (6th-12th) gather in the Youth Room upstairs
The J.O.Y. Class will be starting a study of the book of Jeremiah in the classroom near the playground
And the Worship Reflection Class will circle up in the narthex (just outside the sanctuary) to discuss the music, liturgy, scripture and sermon we just experienced together.

Please note that the church office will be closed next Monday for Labor Day.

May your final week of August bring you some delightful taste of summer.

Peace be with you,
Joe