Happy Halloween!
When Jon and I moved into our neighborhood in Tulsa one of our surprises was how popular it is on Halloween. We typically hand out candy to about 200 kids. Even last year, we had about a hundred in the pandemic. One of our neighbors has a large golf cart that he pulls a wagon around with kids on hay bales. Three doors down they have a haunted garage that plays spooky sounds heard for blocks. And next door, they always have their Christmas lights installed the week before. It is one of our favorite nights of the year to visit with the people that live around us.
As a historian, I have often been flabbergasted at all the misinformation about this holiday. One of our children was yelled at during elementary school by another child who told them to stop celebrating “the devil’s birthday.” But this day is tied to our observance with recognizing the Saints that have gone before us. It is also tied to ancient cultures and the midway point between the solstices. We had a wonderful time last Sunday at our annual Trunk or Treat hosted for our community. We give thanks for all those who helped make this possible. I pray that you will all stay safe as you participate in your neighborhoods this weekend. What a wonderful opportunity to shine the light of Christ to those you encounter!
This Sunday we have several significant things happening. The choir is returning and will be singing the anthem at the 9:00 am service. They have started practicing on Monday nights and we look forward to hearing them. If you love to sing and have been vaccinated, please call Tricia Jenkins to join them. The other special thing for worship on Oct. 31st is the opportunity to be anointed. We will offer this at both services and the Congregational Care Ministers will anoint you on your hand or forehead if you would like them to. I will be praying for those who desire an individual prayer from the pastor.
Also, we are launching our green bean drive for Restore Hope with the goal of collecting 900 cans before Nov. 17th. We are signing people up to serve food on the week of Thanksgiving to our Family Promise neighbors and we are kicking off our Osage County Christmas gift drive for children in poverty. So many ways to serve and represent Christ in our community! As a staff, we give thanks for all those who step up and joyfully give back. I look forward to being with you on Sunday.
Blessings,
Pastor Heather
