Common Ground – Spring 2023

Common Ground – Spring 2023

Join friends for a casual dinner, devotions, and an early evening of learning and growing in fellowship and faith!   Get details and register below.

Wednesday Evenings
April 19 – May 17

Dinner at 6:00 pm
Informal Praise & Prayer at 6:35 pm
Groups & Classes Begin at 6:45 pm
Closing on “Common Ground” at 7:45 pm

A. Faith in Shakespeare
Shakespeare’s History of Henry V is a story about war, politics, intrigue, and betrayal, yet a constant through the play is King Henry’s enduring faith. English professor Brian Martin will lead us in an exploration of the play, focusing on the manner in which Henry allows his devotion to guide his choices as monarch and military leader. (2 sessions, 4/19 & 26)

B. The Angel of the Lord
The title may be familiar to readers of the Bible. But who is the “Angel of the Lord?” What does he do and why does he appear so often in the early period of the Old Testament but then nearly disappear completely during the time of the kings? And what can all of it teach us about Jesus? Discover the treasures of God and deepen your understanding of a critical and mysterious part of the Biblical story. Led by Mark Weilnau. (5 sessions, 4/19-5/17)

C. Honoring God’s Creation
As followers of Jesus, terms like “climate change” and “global warming” call us to consider our care of God’s creation for the Creator’s glory as well as our good. Join Pastor Bob Mordhorst for an introduction to an organization known as Interfaith Power & Light accompanied by an important discussion of climate change issues and challenges from a Christian perspective. As people of faith and conscience, let’s talk about our opportunities to care for one another and our common home. (2 sessions, 5/3 & 10)

D. Global Missions from Silver Spring
Prepare to be inspired and challenged by this series of discussions on needs and mission initiatives around the world. On 4/19, Global Mission Team Chair Glen Harvell will lead a relevant Bible study and preview GMT plans and goals for the year. On 4/26, Suzy Carbone will lead a discussion with Marta Steliac from Saint Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral about the current situation and needs in Ukraine. On 5/3, Mengesha Shibru Gella will share about needs in Ethiopia in the midst of civil war and drought, and how we can partner with the Mekane Yesus church there to make a difference.  On 5/10, Larry Zimmerman will share about what God is doing in the ministry of Bethania Kids, India.  You’re bound to appreciate how much God has made possible through the hearts and hands of our congregation, and how much more remains to be done! (4 sessions, 4/19-5/10)

E. Bridge Builders: Faith in Action
Bridge Builders is a group focused on answering God’s call to reconciliation, justice, and service for all. Come to hear from members about the group’s mission including the important role of Christian faith in the process of building awareness and taking action to support the dignity of all people created in the image of God.  (1 session, 5/17)

F. Lessons from the Prayer of Daniel
In the Book of Daniel, chapter 9, verses 1-19 is one of the most remarkable prayers in the Bible. It reveals God’s character, provides a model for how we should approach God humbly in prayer, and in this session will also show how Daniel’s prayer points to Christ. Led by Joe Chiaravallotti  (1 session, 5/17)

 Childcare is available with a reservation – 48 hours notice, please!
Register today!