If you were at St. Mark’s for worship, on April 3, 2022, you would have been fortunate to hear Charlie Nelms join me in sharing the courageous life story of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. She was the youngest of 17 children, born on a cotton farm in 1875, to parents who had been previously enslaved. Passionate about education, she walked eight miles, alone, as a young child, to attend a school for black children. Later, she started her own school for black girls, with $1.50 and by selling sweet potato pies. She eventually became an advisor to five U.S. Presidents. She was also a Methodist and a delegate to four General Conferences. From a young age, Mary McLeod Bethune was nurtured and guided, by those who believed in her, and the difference she could make in the world.
You may have noticed that we are in an election season in our country. It would be hard to miss, unless you have sheltered yourself from all media. It is also likely you have heard, or been a part of conversations around a variety of important issues. Respectful and healthy conversation, debate and actions can be fruitful. In our current climate, it is good for us to ask ourselves: In Our Words and Actions, Are We Guiding & Nurturing Our Children Well?
In February, just a few days away, we recognize Black History Month. We are reminded of how many wise and brave souls, guided by their faith, risked themselves for the future of others. In worship, we will share a few of their stories, recognizing how they intentionally nurtured and guided the children and youth in their care, in the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. How is our faith leading us, in a world that is still hurting, to do the same? We will explore this together on Sunday.
The Chancel Choir, directed by Gerry Sousa and accompanied by Ilze Akerbergs, will lead us in music. There will also be a Children’s Moment. We will pray and reflect. The Brass family will read our first scripture passage from the Gospels (Mark 10:13-16). Drew Capone will read second scripture passage from the First Letter of John (1 John 4:7-12). The sermon is titled, In Our Words and Actions, Are We Guiding & Nurturing Our Children Well?
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.