Elijah finds the presence of God not in earthquake, wind, or fire, but in the sound of sheer silence. When the disciples face a great storm on the sea, they cry out with fear. Jesus says: “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” Amid the storms of life, we gather to seek the calm presence of Christ that soothes our fears. In comforting words of scripture and in the refreshing bread and cup of the eucharist, God grants us peace and sends us forth to be a sign of God’s presence to others.

• Bring the family to our Sunday School Kick-off on Sunday, August 16, at 9:45 am. Read more!
• Sign up to help with Family Promise when they are here Aug. 23-30. Help serve our neighbors struggling with homelessness! We need overnighters, meal preparation, and fellowship! Sign up in the Narthex or Office.  Read more!
• Men mark your calendars for the Men’s Retreat in Overgaard Sept. 11-13. This year’s theme is “Living like a Lutheran (Christian)”. Read more!

Readings for next week (12th Sunday after Pentecost)

Isaiah 56:1, 6-8

Psalm 67

Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32

Matthew 15:10-20

Prayer Requests password: stjohn