Weekly update

O God, who before the passion of your only-begotten Son revealed his glory upon the holy mountain: Grant to us that we, beholding by faith the light of his countenance, may be strengthened to bear our cross, and be changed into his likeness from glory to glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Collect for the Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Book of Common Prayer)

Last Sunday after Epiphany is also known in some faith traditions as the Feast of the Transfiguration. We remembered that mountaintop experience, and Peter's eagerness to preserve the moment, in scripture and sermon. We discussed the universal tendency we all seem to have, to want to live in those "mountaintop moments;" and the necessity to take strength and encouragement from them, and move on to the work we have to do, in Jesus' name.

This week that work for us has included setting out plans and goals for the future of the congregation. Last Monday night we finished outlining our 1, 3, and 5-year plans for growth and evangelism, as requested by various denominational leaders. We've also continued to welcome new visitors, and are glad to note that some have decided to make the Reconciler their church home.

This week we celebrate Ash Wednesday in conjunction with the worshippers at our host church, Immanuel Lutheran. We continue to be grateful for their welcoming hospitality. And we look forward to the Bible study, led by Kate Kamphausen, that will begin next Sunday at 5:30 pm, before worship at 6:00. Please, join us!

As we progress toward the cross this Lenten season, we pray that all are able to live into the repentance to which we are called, and to feel God's grace and mercy in the forgiveness that all are promised.