A few weeks ago during Worship we sang “The Trees of the Field” from The Faith We Sing. When the Praise Team was rehearsing before the service, Phyllis shared with us a quote by Henry David Thoreau, “I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.” I asked her to share it with the congregation at the end of the worship service, right before we sang the song together.
Thoreau went into the woods often and embraced living simply and in harmony with nature. His words remind us that when we go to the woods, with a sense of heightened awareness and openness to be changed, we can return
renewed, refreshed and strengthened.
I thought of this quote on Sunday afternoon while taking a drive to witness the beauty of our first snowfall on the trees and in the woods. It was interesting to see how the snow was sticking to the sides of the trees indicating the direction of the wind. And, how the pines stood strong and tall under the weight of heavy snow on their branches.
Duluth’s landscape offers us trees and water, cliffs and woods, inviting us to take a walk
(or a drive) and return renewed, refreshed and strengthened.
It has been a busy fall at Asbury. Rally Day, the first Sunday of the new church year, was a wonderful celebration! The sanctuary was full and 16 children came up for Children’s Time. After dedicating our Sunday school teachers, they led the procession downstairs where they will learn about God and Jesus, as they continue to grow deeper in their faith. After worship our traditional Sloppy Joe and sweet corn lunch was enjoyed by many as people gathered around the new round tables.
Pasties, pies, donuts, pantry and the meatball dinner are all behind us. It is always amazing to me so see the support of so many people for these events. Thank you to all who helped and all who participated. This year at the meatball dinner I smiled when I heard one guest say to another, “Well, hello! How are you? I don’t think I have seen you since the last meatball dinner!”
Last Sunday was confirmation and I am very thankful for my time this past year with Lily, Chris, Emma, Mallorie, Ben and Emily, and for their presence in our congregation.
Asbury UMC is a vital, growing, faithful community of faith – and it is because of all of you! I truly feel God’s presence with us as we continue to do good ministry and mission in our church, community and the world!
Peace and joy,
Pastor Cindy