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Holiness in our Midst: Session 123

SESSION CXXIII: ON CHRISTMAS MOVIES

Story Circle Prompt: What is your favorite Christmas movie? Why?

My favorite Christmas movie is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The plot line is timeless. In the small town of Bedford Falls, George Bailey owns a savings and loan company that benefits the community. His nemesis, Henry Potter, is always looking for opportunities to take over George’s business and the town. When it appears to George that all is lost (including his livelihood and family), because of Mr. Potter, an angel named Clarence is sent from Heaven to show him what life in his town would have been like if he had never been born.

The spiritual question that the movie asks is a profound one: What would the world (or my family or communities) look like if I had never been born? Perhaps, I will make it my New Year’s Resolution for the coming year to answer it. 

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, contemplate the spiritual question: What value have I added through the years to my little corner of the world?

FOR GROUP STUDY: 

1. Read aloud Session CXXXII.
2. Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt.

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com

District News & Announcements – November 2022

District News & Announcements

November 2022

“District News and Announcements” is a monthly e-newsletter for members and friends of the Church of the Brethren in the Northern Plains District.  District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those doing special ministries share information on programs and activities.  Local churches share news and invitations.  Send submissions by November 24th for inclusion in next month’s newsletter to Hannah Button-Harrison, Director of Communications, communications@nplains.org.

Trouble viewing pictures and videos? 
Click here to view the newsletter in your browser.

TO PRINT – go to browser view
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In this issue

1. CAMP UPDATES
2. THE CHURCH ON NORTHLAND (CEDAR RAPIDS) CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SHARING
3. MODERATOR MUSINGS
4. DISTRICT EQUIPPING SESSION NOV 3 ON ZOOM
5. HOLINESS IN OUR MIDST
6. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MUSINGS
7. DISTRICT SEEKING NEW FINANCIAL SECRETARY
8. MISSION AND MINISTRY BOARD UPDATE
9. REBECCA AND SAMUEL DALI BEGIN INTERIM MINISTRY AT PANTHER CREEK
10. IOWA RELIGIOUS LEADERS SPEAK AGAINST GUN AMENDMENT
11. CONGREGATIONAL NEWSLETTERS

Quick info

Calendar of Events | District Staff & Leadership Contacts | Documents & Resources

Banner photo: The attendees of Hands of Christ gathered to attend the funeral for Lloyd Broadwater.  Pictured: Doyle and Karen Harper, Alethea Broadwater, Kathy Mack, Beth Cage, Heidi and Jamie Risser.   Send in your photos for future newsletters!  Email communications@nplains.org.

Holiness in our Midst: Session 122

SESSION CXXII: ON SILENCE

Story Circle Prompt: What have you discovered about the value of silence from intentional disconnection from digital devices or during a retreat?

Here are some of my learnings from a three-day silent retreat at the Creighton University Retreat Center in Griswold, IA in late July 2022:

1. Silence and time away from my routine clarified which commitments are healthy. Life went on (How could it???) when I detached and disconnected. The persons and groups who actually depend on and benefit from my “touch” became apparent. 

2. Silence exposed my hidden addictions. My first day, I missed cable news and political commentary terribly. Withdrawal was harder than I had imagined. Also, the retreat center served healthier foods than the fast food I so easily access on my busy schedule. I became aware of the need to make healthier food choices.

3. Silence brought me closer to my true self and to the Living Christ. I now “schedule” time to deepen my relationship with the Divine.

Such simple learnings, but what major changes they are prompting!

What have you learned from being away in silence? 

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, respond to the following reflection: I have discovered that silence is not soundless. Is that true for you, too?                                     If so, what are some of the sounds that accompany your being alone with God? Sounds of nature? Sound of God’s voice?

FOR GROUP STUDY: 

        1.   Read aloud Session CXXXII.

        2.   Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt.

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com

District News & Announcements – October 2022

District News & Announcements

October 2022

“District News and Announcements” is a monthly e-newsletter for members and friends of the Church of the Brethren in the Northern Plains District.  District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those doing special ministries share information on programs and activities.  Local churches share news and invitations.  Send submissions by October 25th for inclusion in next month’s newsletter to Hannah Button-Harrison, Director of Communications, communications@nplains.org.

Trouble viewing pictures and videos? 
Click here to view the newsletter in your browser.

TO PRINT – go to browser view
Windows: right click + Print OR [Ctrl] + P
Mac: [Ctrl] + click + Print OR [Command] + P

In this issue

1. CAMP UPDATES
2. DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SABBATH RENEWAL IN 2022
3. DAY OF SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS FOR SE IOWA CLUSTER: OCT 16TH
4. CHILDREN’S DISASTER SERVICES WORKSHOP: OCT 28-29
5. INTRODUCTORY PASTORAL COMPENSATION WORKSHOPS
6. DISTRICT SEEKING NEW FINANCIAL SECRETARY
7. MODERATOR MUSINGS
8. HOLINESS IN OUR MIDST
9. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MUSINGS
10. CONGREGATIONAL NEWSLETTERS

Quick info

Calendar of Events | District Staff & Leadership Contacts | Documents & Resources

Banner photo: Campers play games on the lawn at Camp Pine Lake during All Ages Camp this September.  Photo by Betsy Kuecker.  Send in your photos for future newsletters!  Email communications@nplains.org.

Holiness in our Midst: Session 121

SESSION CXXI: ON ‘GLAD SERVICE’

Story Circle Prompt: Where do you find examples of “glad service?”

More than a week later, I am still wearing black in honor of the way Queen Elizabeth II lived her life. In one news clip, she used the phrase “in glad service” for the way she sought to conduct herself as she executed her duties. In my eyes, she embodied Psalm 100:2: “Serve the Lord with gladness.” Her unwavering sense of being true to her calling, while also enjoying the tasks, touched me deeply. I, too, wish to serve “gladly,” all my days. 

I am always heartened when I see persons along my path serving without complaint or an ever-present behind-the-scenes snarkiness. I see many more examples of self-righteous, reluctant or disdainful service than “glad” service. I’m thinking now of my co-worker “Sandy,” who serves in the same assisted living center where I work. She works kindly and consistently, even when called in to work unexpectedly. She was a mail carrier most of her career, braving the elements without being grumpy about it. When her grandchildren needed a helping hand, she welcomed them into her home. “Sandy” lives with an enviable spirit of “gladness” that I can only hope to attain in the next life. But I am motivated by her to try and follow suit, here and now.

Who do you see, royalty or not, living life “gladly?”

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, answer the following: Do I serve “gladly” in my place and time?
   
   FOR GROUP STUDY: 

       1.   Read aloud Session CXXX.

       2.   Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt.

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com

District News & Announcements – September 2022

District News & Announcements

September 2022

“District News and Announcements” is a monthly e-newsletter for members and friends of the Church of the Brethren in the Northern Plains District.  District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those doing special ministries share information on programs and activities.  Local churches share news and invitations.  Send submissions by September 24th for inclusion in next month’s newsletter to Hannah Button-Harrison, Director of Communications, communications@nplains.org.

Trouble viewing pictures and videos? 
Click here to view the newsletter in your browser.

TO PRINT – go to browser view
Windows: right click + Print OR [Ctrl] + P
Mac: [Ctrl] + click + Print OR [Command] + P

In this issue

1. 2022 DISTRICT CONFERENCE REPORT
2. CAMP UPDATES
3. IN OUR PRAYERS
4. DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SABBATH RENEWAL IN 2022
5. MODERATOR MUSINGS
6. HOLINESS IN OUR MIDST
7. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MUSINGS
8. CONGREGATIONAL NEWSLETTERS

Quick info

Calendar of Events | District Staff & Leadership Contacts | Documents & Resources

Banner photo: At our 2022 District Conference, photos of churches were pinned to a giant map made by Moderator Susan Mack-Overla.  Photo by Hannah Button-Harrison.  Send in your photos for future newsletters!  Email communications@nplains.org.

Holiness in our Midst: Session 120

SESSION CXX: ON PEACE IN OUR TIME

Story Circle Prompt: Where are your finding hope for peace in our divided world?

Just for a moment last month, I caught a vision for world peace. I was attending the morning worship service at First Christian Church in Ames (IA) on Aug. 14, 2022. Eric Brown, an elder, was offering the prayer before we partook of communion. I was struck by his words, “Let every meal, every shared time, be communion.”  Though he had written the prayer hastily on the back of a bulletin, it seemed to me that it carried eternal weight. He gave me permission to share it here for you:

Dear God,

We gather here in your presence. In our time in your amazing world, let us know the way to live here in your spirit. As we join in this meal together, let us re-imagine, let us re-see how our actions, words, and thoughts can be guided by Jesus’ teaching, not just in this time and place, but in all our time in your world. Let every meal, every shared time, be communion. Let us learn your ways from each other, let us share your ways with all we meet. Come now, all of us, to this time of sharing your spirit together. Let us partake. 

In His Name, Amen.

Where do you find hope, inspiration, or vision to heal our divided world?

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, answer the following: In what ways do you see God working in our time and place? 

2. FOR GROUP STUDY: 

       1.   Read aloud Session CXIX.

       2.   Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com

District News & Announcements – August 2022

District News & Announcements

August 2022

“District News and Announcements” is a monthly e-newsletter for members and friends of the Church of the Brethren in the Northern Plains District.  District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those doing special ministries share information on programs and activities.  Local churches share news and invitations.  Send submissions by August 25th for inclusion in next month’s newsletter to Hannah Button-Harrison, Director of Communications, communications@nplains.org.

Trouble viewing pictures and videos? 
Click here to view the newsletter in your browser.

TO PRINT – go to browser view
Windows: right click + Print OR [Ctrl] + P
Mac: [Ctrl] + click + Print OR [Command] + P

In this issue

1. Northern Plains District Conference: August 5-7, 2022
2. Live Music on the Lawn and All Ages Camp Coming Labor Day Weekend
3. Clergy Ethics Training 9/10/22
4. BDM Work Trip: Madisonville, KY – October 2-8, 2022
5. Holiness in our Midst
6. Congregational Newsletters

Quick info

Calendar of Events | District Staff & Leadership Contacts | Documents & Resources

Banner photo: The whole Northern Plains group gathered at the Church of the Brethren at Ankeny and waiting for the bus that will take them to National Youth Conference.  Photo courtesy of Tammy Kerkove.  Send in your photos for future newsletters!  Email communications@nplains.org.

Holiness in our Midst: Session 119

SESSION CXIX: ON GOING OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Story Circle Prompt: Remember a time when you ventured off the beaten path. What did you learn by altering your routine?

It was the summer of 2004, right after the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference in Charleston, WV. I had several days to meander through the country roads of West Virginia, the first time I ventured on my own without minute-by-minute plans. I knew only that I needed to travel from the southwest corner to the northeast corner of the state by the following Sunday morning. (A church was eager to learn more about denominational missions, and I was coordinator for mission connections at the time.) I had booked cheap motels near national parks, that much I had done, but the daytime hours were left to chance. 

I do not remember the name of the town or the local woman who decided to take me on her self-described “West Virginia Adventure of a Lifetime.” I do recall that it was a Friday, and I had stopped at an all-inclusive general store in the mountains. In addition to the standard groceries, there was also a hardware aisle, and even a soda fountain/grill tucked in one corner. The proprietor befriended me as she made me a sandwich and gave me a free coke. She began telling me the history of the area and her personal history, which were one and the same. 

“Oh heck, why don’t I just show you my life,” she said. “Are you game?” she asked. I nodded, not sure if my life was a risk, but it sounded fun at the time. All that afternoon she immersed me in the culture of north central West Virginia. First, she gave me a private showing of her late husband’s museum-quality model railroad, set up in a large shed across the road from the store. The trains chugged through mountains, past authentic-looking local people and landmarks, and featured bells, whistles, and railroad crossings. The whole scene was a thing of wonder!

Then she drove me to the gravesites of her relatives, detailing their eccentricities, and showed me the cemetery, with a breathtaking mountain view, where she would be laid to rest. She took me by her family acreage turned B & B, where Charles Kuralt, the news commentator who loved Appalachia, had once vacationed. The place featured a large oak tree with a lovely swing. I wanted to stay there forever and do nothing but sing the John Denver song about the state’s country roads.

“And you need to see the caves,” she said after the family immersion. She drove me to some famous caves and guided me through underground caverns of unearthly beauty before whisking me over more mountain passes and past scenic farmlands on the way back to the store. We sat for a while, savoring the day before she packed my “food for the road.” She sent me on my way with a big West Virginia wave. I left determined to go off the beaten path more often. What had I missed? Who had I missed knowing more deeply?

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:
Read the above reflection. In your journal, answer the following: What adventure would you like to go on that would take you out of your routine? What is holding you back?
 
FOR GROUP STUDY: 
       1.   Read aloud Session CXV.
       2.   Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt

[View Past Sessions Here]

Note: Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com.

District News & Announcements – July 2022

District News & Announcements

July 2022

“District News and Announcements” is a monthly e-newsletter for members and friends of the Church of the Brethren in the Northern Plains District.  District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those doing special ministries share information on programs and activities.  Local churches share news and invitations.  Send submissions by July 25th for inclusion in next month’s newsletter to Hannah Button-Harrison, Director of Communications, communications@nplains.org.

Trouble viewing pictures and videos? 
Click here to view the newsletter in your browser.

TO PRINT – go to browser view
Windows: right click + Print OR [Ctrl] + P
Mac: [Ctrl] + click + Print OR [Command] + P

In this issue

1. Song and Story Fest at Camp Pine Lake, July 3-9
2. 2022 Annual Conference in Omaha: July 10-14
3. Moderator Message
4. Northern Plains District Conference: August 5-7, 2022
5. Holiness in our Midst
6. Leadership Development Musings
7. Pine Lake Updates
8. Disaster Ministries Trip
9. Congregational Newsletters

Quick info

Calendar of Events | District Staff & Leadership Contacts | Documents & Resources

Banner photo: Volunteers install the new outdoor stage at Camp Pine Lake.  Send in your photos for future newsletters!  Email communications@nplains.org.