Among our Joys:
The theme of making room for God continues this weekend as we host the display of this wonderful collection of nativity scenes from around the world. As the worship service continues, please feel free to move about the sanctuary and enjoy these marvelous depictions of the Holy Family from hands and cultures all around this marvelous world. We thank Neil Allen for sharing his incredible collection with us, and for all who have had a hand in making this weekend event possible. There's still time to invite a friend! We'll have the sanctuary open today from 12:30-5pm for anyone who wishes to come and view them. Don't hesitate to reach out to Neil if you want to learn more about a particular set - a story about each one is to be shared!
I also want to lift up the joy of our outdoor nativity scene of which many of you had a hand in making this year. Susan McClung and her daughter, Ruby McClung were here with me Friday to set it all up in the rain, and Susan has added her creative brilliance to the project this year for which we are so grateful and blessed! Be sure to check out all the animals and life paying homage to the baby Jesus; be inspired to do the same in your own life and to share such a light with the world.
Among our concerns:
We add to our prayers Corrine Bahrke's great-granddaughter, Raven Fries (pronounced Freeze), for peace and healing as she navigates some new, particularly difficult medical challenges.
We continue to pray for those physically recovering:
Norma Carolyn
Joseph Mills
Dan Ledbetter
Laura Cohthril
Danny Jablonski
Charlene Housman
Francis Barnes
For friends of our community undergoing health challenges, Nancy, Loralie, Margo, Teresa, Cheryl and Ron
Martha Redford's nephew, Steve
We lift up our homebound friends:
Harry and Margaret Lobberegt
Dorothy Beeles
Anastasia Cox and her daughter, Lela Cox
Helen Bosley
Jane Nelson
Marylu Mills as she receives hospice care
Among our local and global community:
And in the midst of news of yet another act of gun violence, this time at a private school in Wisconsin, let us pray for the community of Madison, for Abundant Life Christian School, and for the loved ones of those who lost their lives last week. We pray for peace in the hearts of all those who find themselves without options, those who feel isolated or afraid, and we ask God for guidance as we seek to build a world where violence is never ceded as the answer.
We pray for peace throughout the world. For an end to violence in all its forms, including those perpetuated in the guise of national interest. We pray for Syria, for Palestine and Gaza, for those intwined in war in Lebanon, Sudan, Yemen, for Ukraine, Russia, for those in conflict fighting for justice in Bangladesh, for Afghanistan, Somalia, and in many more places around the world.
We pray for the village on 6th and Orchard and for those who find themselves without shelter.
Farzana, a 25-year-old from Afghanistan, faced profound challenges. Her father, Hamidullah, lost his leg in a roadside explosion and struggled to support their family as a shoemaker. Poverty consumed their lives, forcing Farzana, the eldest of five siblings, to shoulder heavy responsibilities. Ashamed of her circumstances, Farzana withdrew from social gatherings, isolating herself as she battled depression. She often lost sleep and struggled with suicidal thoughts, haunted by her family’s struggles, including her brother Omar’s inability to afford university despite passing his entrance exams.
A neighbor introduced Farzana to our partner’s community Mental Health Center. With therapy, medication, and counseling, Farzana began to heal. Through mental health workshops and vocational training provided by the program, Farzana developed tailoring skills, received a sewing machine, and launched her business. Today, Farzana supports her family and funds Omar’s education. Her mental health has improved, and she has become a community advocate, joining the local shura to assist others facing similar struggles. “I am happy to support my family and help others,” Farzana shares. Her transformation is a testament to the vital work of our partner in Afghanistan, offering hope and dignity to those in need.
If you'd like to share a prayer joy or concern, please contact Pastor Doug at doug@fcctacoma.org or by calling the church office. Please indicate whether your prayer is to be shared publicly, or if you'd like it to be kept private.
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