These weeks when we cannot gather in person for Sunday worship, Lakewood United Church of Christ is providing brief weekly sabbath programs for you to listen to on your own or with those you live with. They will be posted on Friday so that you can schedule your sabbath time to suit your schedule and your spiritual inclinations. We hope these programs are of spiritual support to you in these difficult times.
There is a poem, a scripture reading and a brief meditation by Pastor Kim Wells followed by music offered by Music Director Hilton Kean Jones. Following the video and music, there is a photo montage of pictures of nature taken by the LUCC church family.
Find a quiet place, inside or outside. Light a candle. Perhaps have something present that represents nature for you. Breathe. Be present.
You may begin by offering these words:
The creation is quite like a spacious and splendid house, provided and filled with the most abundant furnishings. Everything in it tells us of God.
–John Calvin, 1509-1564
When you are ready, start the video below.
(For text for above video click HERE.)
As you listen to the music video from Hilton which follows, you are invited to pay attention to the thoughts and feelings and reflections that arise for you. The music video features photos of nature taken by members of the Lakewood Church family offered in honor of Earth Day.
(opening titles begin in silence – for best audio, headphones or external computer speakers are recommended)
After viewing the videos, you are invited to offer the following closing –
The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. . . I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.
–Ann Frank, 1929-1945
Breathe. Extinguish your candle and engage whatever may come with a sense of peace and a desire to serve.
LAKEWOOD UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
- A Just Peace Church
An Open and Affirming Church
A Creation Justice Church - 2601 54th Avenue South, St Petersburg, FL 33712-4700
(727) 867-7961
see the Contact page for
map, personnel, and email addresses
The mission of Lakewood United Church of Christ, as part of the Church Universal, is to:
- Celebrate the presence and power of God in our lives and in our world;
- Offer the hospitality and inclusive love of Christ to all people;
- Work for God’s peace and justice throughout creation.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 