Come Worship with Us!

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Dear Friends,

As a welcoming and inclusive congregation, we have the privilege this Sunday to host Rabbi Isaac Jeret and our friends from Congregation Ner Tamid. They will be our guests in worship, to be followed by a question and answer forum over a potluck luncheon in our new community room.
During the worship service, Rabbi Jeret and I will engage in a dialogue on the topic
Who are the Chosen? The notion that God has chosen particular communities and individuals is deeply rooted in both the Jewish as well as our own Presbyterian tradition. This belief has provided meaning and comfort to countless believers throughout history. It has also led to deep divisions and mutual hostility between our traditions. Is it possible to retain one without the other?
All of us are then invited to be part of the conversation on this topic over a potluck luncheon following the service. In the spirit of hospitality, I have asked Rabbi Jeret what we as the hosts should know about dietary guidelines in order to make our guests feel truly welcome in our midst. He suggested that it would be best if we could serve a no-meat, no-poultry meal. If fish dishes are included, it should be a fish with fins and scales (tuna and salmon are the easiest examples).
In order to help us plan, please RSVP to the church office via email office@stlukespres.com or phone (310) 377-2825 to let us know that you will be attending and what kind of dish you would like to contribute.
This Sunday’s events are not just a wonderful opportunity for us to learn and make new friends. They are also particularly suited for us to reach out and welcome others into our midst – not just our Jewish brothers and sisters - but also friends, family, and neighbors. So, spread the word, come yourself, and bring your neighbors, friends, or strangers.

Blessings,
Pastor Reinhard