Reflecting on an event 25 years ago

Hello, WTUC Family.

I hope that you have had a good week. I take a moment to make a note about a somber anniversary that takes place today. 25 years ago on September 11, a horrific set of terrorist attacks took place in the United States. Many of us may remember seeing the events unfold on television, and it was a moment in time that shocked not just Americans but the entire world. We reflect back on the horrors that took place, not to dwell on them, but to realize the depravity and fallenness of our broken world while also still seeking hope through the only One who can truly give it to us. We can also remember the valiant work of the first responders who ran into the buildings to help save those who needed help. We can remember the spirit of unity that spread across not only the country but even across parts of the world. I write this point not as a political one but as a human being, a global citizen and a disciple of Christ who continues to witness horrible things unfolding across our globe and testify to the absolute need for our Redeeming Savior to help bring healing and restoration. May we take a moment to pray for our world today.

Coming up this Sunday, we are welcoming back Rev. Dr. Paul Shew, who will be continuing his mini-series on Authentic Christianity. We will be gathering online via Zoom for our service, which begins at 11:00 a.m. Please note that the Zoom link has been updated for this year! You can get more details on the service here on our calendar page.

This was in our weekly Letter to the Congregation in email form, but Ruth Ingulsrud with our outreach partner JOEE has an update for us! You can read about what is taking place, including a pumpkin fundraiser! If you want to have a pumpkin prepared by Ruth and support a great outreach, sign up here! You can also take a look at JOEE Presents: Pig and Pumpkin - a video featuring Hamlet.

I apologize for missing the deadline on updating our WTUC calendar with our sister church events - such as the monthly devotional and prayer session happening online with Pastor Jordan at Yokohoma Union Church. The information is now posted as well as some upcoming events for our youth! Please feel free to keep an eye on the calendar for more information on what is happening in the life of our church as well as events that might interest you at our other Union Church congregations.

I hope that you have a wonderful rest of the week.

Blessings,
Jonathan