Sunday, January 20, 2019

8:00 am & 10:30 am Holy Eucharist & Sermon
9:30 – 10:15 am Bible Study
9:30 am Choir Rehearsal
10:25 am Sunday School 

Sunday, January 20, 2019
The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of his dreams for America in one of the most influential speeches in all of history, known as the “I have a dream speech.” His message and his delivery moved mountains. He challenged tens of thousands of civil rights supporters in Washington that day in 1963 to move toward change and never give up. His words continue to challenge us today. King’s speech was simple. “That all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the ‘unalienable Rights’ of ‘Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.’” He described the many ways in which this dream might be visible in America, but the message singled out one mission: equality for all. King made it clear that resistance would only delay the inevitable. King’s speech was urgent Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. … It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. King’s speech was compelling And there will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges. King’s speech was easy With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. King made it easy for his listeners to believe they weren’t alone and that change was possible. King’s speech was visible King gave his speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to 250,000 civil rights supporters during one of the most significant demonstrations in history. The speech was broadcast to millions more. King’s speech understood the audience I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. He spoke to those who suffered and painted a picture of a brighter tomorrow, motivating them to stay the course and press onward.

In our own generation and in our own circumstances, how do we “stay the course and press onward?” This is an on-going question for us as individuals, as a church community, and as citizens of this nation. The legacy of Dr. King is a personal challenge–a call to each of us to use our skills, talents, and everyday experiences–the very stuff of our lives–to contribute to the dream–“God’s Dream,” as Archbishop Desmond Tutu calls it. Epiphany Church, “a diverse community seeking to embody and share the teachings and love of Jesus Christ for all people” is a living testament of “staying the course.” Faith is not so much a set of doctrines and beliefs as it is a practice, a way of living inspired and sustained by the power and love of God in Jesus Christ for all people.

HELPING THOSE EFFECTED BY THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
Let’s help those who are facing hardships b/c of the Government Shutdown. Bring food items this Sunday and we will be sure to get them to a distribution center.
Here are some suggestions: (non-perishables)
-Peanut Butter
-Jam/Jelly
-Oatmeal (packets)
-Cereal (Low sugar/high fiber)
-Pancake Mix
-Syrup
-Juice
-Canned Tuna
-Salad Dressing
Let’s hope this ends soon!