St. Francis of Assisi is remembered at the patron saint of animals and the environment. Born in Italy in 1182, he was noted for his commitment to justice and a deep love of creation. Francis died on October 3, 1226. The church celebrates his life and ministry each year on October 4...but because it tends to work out better to gather on Saturdays, we're hosting a Pet Blessing on October 7 at 11:00. See you on the front lawn! 

Leading up to "A Conversation with Christo Brand" hosted by the Great Lakes Center for the Arts on October 8, the Adult Forum at Emmanuel will present a special three-part series. Held in Wood Fellowship Hall beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays, this series will consist of: 

• September 10: A facilitated discussion about what Nelson Mandela teaches us about resilience, courage, perseverance, and non-violent activism, led by the Rev. Dr. J. Barrington Bates, affiliate clergy.

• September 17: Further discussion with André Strydom about his experience in South Africa and how music can help us understand and heal from experiences of evil. He will focus specifically on Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph’s song about Mandela, He Walked to Freedom. Maestro Strydom lived in South Africa under apartheid, and he will share some of his personal experience. He currently serves as director of music at Emmanuel, as well as chorusmaster for the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra.

• September 24: Presentation and discussion with Heather Raue, Artistic Director of Crooked Tree Arts Center’s School of Ballet. Ms. Raue will be discussing how the arts generally and dance, in particular, can help us interpret difficult subjects or periods in history and how it is possible to find beauty and light in even the darkest of circumstances. She is working on an original dance piece that explores some of the themes from Mr. Brand’s book. The piece will debut on Oct 8.

Enjoy an ice cream sundae, following the 10am service on August 20. This event is hosted by the Parish Life Ministry. 

The Rev. Nurya Love Parish, Executive Director of Plainsong Farm, will preach at both services and present at the adult forum in Wood Fellowship Hall from 9-9:45 am.

Join on August 27 to learn more about the Plainsong mission: to cultivate connections between people, places and God by making a place that nurtures belonging and the radical renewal of God’s world.