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Inspirational: On Sunday there was a glitch in the zoom platform – my computer ran out of battery power. Unfortunately, the extension cord wasn’t plugged into the main power source. This was a valuable lesson learned. It says in Psalm 118:14, “The Lord is my strength and defense; he has become my salvation.” The Lord gives us exactly what we need when we need it. The Lord keeps giving us that extra boost when we think we can’t do a certain thing. When we are plugged into God’s power grid we are given the strength for life’s journey. Nothing else will suffice. To keep on going through these days of the unknown and learning to fly this plane while in flight, we need to tap into God who makes impossibilities possibilities. I asked a question on Sunday about what we have learned during this COVID- 19 era? Maybe one of the answers is to be connected to the power that will sustain us for the journey ahead. This is done through worship, Bible reading and prayer, contemplation, and . . . . (please fill in on what you have found helpful).

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week:  Lord God, give me oil in my lamp so that it will keep burning bright so that I may see my way clearly along life’s journey. May you give me strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow; through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Birthdays for September
George Mikolay – Sept 25

Anniversaries for September
Allen & Lois Fossett – Sept 22
PCL Anniversary – Sept 24

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
September 27, Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service, starting Sunday at 10 am
In addition to our on-line service,
we have an outdoor worship service
in front of the church.
Please bring your own chairs, masks, hand sanitizer, and BULLETIN.

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Contemplative Prayer, (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom
• Bistro – meets in the church parking lot at 10:30 am, second Saturday of every month
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Please don’t forget to check out our new website: Yourlivingstonchurch.org.

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
September 20-26, 2020

Sun: Exodus 16:2-15; Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45; Phil. 1:21-30; Matt. 20:1-16

Mon: Psalms 57; 145; Esther 4:4-17; Acts 18:1-11; Luke 1:1-4, 3:1-14

Tue: Psalms 54; 146; Esther 5:1-14; Acts 18:12-28; Luke 3:15-22

Wed: Psalms 65; 147:1-11; Esther 6:1-14; Acts 19:1-10; Luke 4:1-13

Thu: Psalms 143; 147:12-20; Esther 7:1-10; Acts 19:11-20; Luke 4:14-30

Fri: Psalms 88; 148; Esther 8:1-8, 15-17; Acts 19:21-41; Luke 4:31-37

Sat: Psalms 122; 149; Esther 9:1-32; Acts 20:1-16; Luke 4:38-44

Lord, please help our faith to be greater than our fears.

PANDEMIC SUPPORT GROUP (aka “Managing Anxiety and Stress”)

When: Monday, September 14, 2020 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM EDT

Add to Calendar

Where: online via Zoom

Contact
Lori Feigenbaum
973-629-1002
events@acapnj.org

We’re all still dealing with the uncertainty of what is going to happen with our health, economics, and leadership. Much has already changed and change will continue. Fear and anxiety are appropriate, and holding back these feelings is harmful. One of the most powerful ingredients for stress reduction is calm, caring emotional support.

Please join us via Zoom at noon on September 14, when we resume our weekly, no-cost support group, facilitated by Eva Silver, LCSW, Cert. Psya.

Once you register you will receive the Zoom call in information.

Talking really does help.

Register Now!

Presbyterian Church Anniversary
On September 24 we will be celebrating our seventieth anniversary.
“COME . . .SEEK . . .GROW”

The Presbyterian Church of Livingston (PCL) evolved as a “grass roots” effort on the part of residents of Livingston. It began as a strong fellowship of people meeting for worship and church school in the local
VFW Hall. As the number of attendees grew, the need for a church building was met through the hard work and enthusiastic support of its members.

The Fellowship Hall was dedicated in 1951, the present sanctuary was added in 1958, and the tower and third floor in 1968. Four pastors have served the church since that time and our present Pastor is The Reverend Daniel Martian.

The Church has a long history of strong caring fellowship amongst its parishioners and close relationships with its Pastors who have helped to strengthen our faith in the teachings of Jesus Christ and application to our daily lives.

Throughout its history, the Church has demonstrated its commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior as a “Church in Action” by internationally supporting refugees from around the world, supporting a mission in Arizona working with Native Americans, as well as partnering with Memorial West Presbyterian Church in Newark to begin an active soup kitchen.

The Church maintains close ties with the local community through mission and ministry events, Recognition Sundays honoring local First Responders, and Light Up Livingston, celebrating the diversity of our community. The history of warm fellowship and enthusiasm continues as we enjoy engaging worship experiences, regular fellowship events, and continued opportunities for mission and outreach.

We are excited to see what God has instore for us in the next 70 years!

Inspirational Thought: It was wonderful seeing everyone on Sunday. The outdoor worship service was a winner and a keeper for now – during inclement weather, we will move into the sanctuary. I was happy that everyone followed the safety guidelines. We even had a guest who saw that we were holding an outdoor worship service in the Tribune and she wanted to come and see. With all that is going on in our world, nation, and the community it is good for us to gather together, even if it is to bow or wave. Seeing each other brings a lift to everyone’s spirit as we journey through this time of uncertainty together. Our legacy from the cloud of witnesses is that our faith is one of resolve and resilience. When faced with challenges, the saints didn’t fold like a deck of cards but keep on being faithful to their calling. I am sure that they would have sung the beloved hymn, “Our Hope Is Built on Nothing Less.” May we, like the sojourners of antiquity, lift up our heads and place our trust in a God who calms the troubled waters. Whether we come to the church using virtual means or in-person worship, may we come and praise God for his many blessings. In so doing, we acknowledge that it is with God that lemons are turned into lemonade.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week:  
Lead us, O Lord our God, Almighty.
Lead us in righteousness and truth.
Lead us with your light and cloud.
Lead us through the wilderness and in the dark night of our souls.
Lead us to the place where the only thing that we can do is to
follow; through Jesus Christ. Amen.

Birthdays for September
Ethan Offei-Addo Sept 15
Lillian Anderson – Sept 16
Eric Offei-Addo – Sept 20

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
September 20, Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service, starting Sunday at 10 am
In addition to our on-line service,
we have an outdoor worship service
in front of the church.
Please bring your own chairs, masks, hand sanitizer, and BULLETIN.

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Contemplative Prayer, (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom
• Bistro – meets in the church parking lot at 10:30 am, second Saturday of every month
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Please don’t forget to check out our new website: Yourlivingstonchurch.org.

Livingston Light Up Night
July 1, at 8 pm, on LTV

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
August 23-29, 2020

Sun: Exodus 14:19-31; Psalm 114:1-8; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35

Mon: Psalms 135; 145; Job 40:1-24; Acts 15:36-16:5; John 11:55-12:8

Tue: Psalms 123; 146; Job 40:1, 41:1-11; Acts 16:6-15; John 12:9-19

Wed: Psalms 15; 147:1-11; Job 42:1-17; Acts 16:16-24; John 12:20-26

Thu: Psalms 36; 147:12-20; Job 28:1-28; Acts 16:25-40; John 12:27-36a

Fri: Psalms 130; 148; Esther 1:1-4, 10-19; Acts 17:1-15; John 12:36b-43

Sat: Psalms 56; 149; Esther 2:5-8, 15-23; Acts 17:16-34; John 12:44-50

Lord, please help our faith to be greater than our fears.

PANDEMIC SUPPORT GROUP (aka “Managing Anxiety and Stress”)

When: Monday, September 14, 2020 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM EDT

Add to Calendar

Where: online via Zoom

Contact
Lori Feigenbaum
973-629-1002
events@acapnj.org

We’re all still dealing with the uncertainty of what is going to happen with our health, economics, and leadership. Much has already changed and change will continue. Fear and anxiety are appropriate, and holding back these feelings is harmful. One of the most powerful ingredients for stress reduction is calm, caring emotional support.

Please join us via Zoom at noon on September 14, when we resume our weekly, no-cost support group, facilitated by Eva Silver, LCSW, Cert. Psya.

Once you register you will receive the Zoom call in information.

Talking really does help.

Register Now!

Inspirational Thought: Ready! Set! Go! Our new church website is ready to be launched. For a few months now, we have updated and add new features that will tell our PCL story in a succinct way. The new website address is: Yourlivingstonchurch.org. I hope that you will check it out and provide any comments or suggestions to me and I will forward them to the Website team. We are looking to make this the best introduction to our church that we can possibly do. It is important to make a good first impression and let others know that our church is their church. We are hoping that this will become a household phrase, “Your Church has (name of the event or ministry).” As you look at the website you will see a video and written welcome from me, links to our zoom and Facebook platforms, information about our church’s mission and ministry, our open and affirming statement, and a way to give online offerings.

I would like to thank Mark Annett, Alison Clark, Felix Amoyaw, and David Calabrese for dedicating their time and talent to make the new website possible. Their collaborative efforts produced a fine resource to reach out to many in our community with the message of welcome and gracious hospitality.

Please share this website with others who might want to take a look and see what our church is all about so that, hopefully, they will come and check us out.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week: Lord God, we ask that you will lead us and guide us along our way. In these challenging and uncertain times that we live in, may you provide for our every need. We don’t know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future. Help us to be in constant prayer for our church, others, and ourselves so that we will connect to your abundance and  providential care as we strive to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with you; through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Birthdays for August
Herta Conrads – Aug 28
Lori Jackson (organist) – Aug 28

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
August 30, Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday& Friday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Please don’t forget to check out our new website: Yourlivingstonchurch.org.

Livingston Light Up Night
July 1, at 8 pm, on LTV

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
August 23-29, 2020

Sun: Exodus 1:8-2:10;Psalm 124:1-8; Romans 12:1-8; Matthew 16:13-20

Mon: Psalms 57; 145; Job 4:1, 5:1-11, 17-21, 26-27; Acts 9:19b-31; John 6:52-59

Tue: Psalms 56; 149; Joshua 23:1-16; Romans 15:25-33; Matthew 27:11-23

Wed: Psalms 65; 147:1-11; Job 6:1, 7:1-21; Acts 10:1-16; John 7:1-13

Thu: Psalms 54; 146; Judges 2:1-5, 11-23; Romans 16:17-27; Matthew 27:32-44

Fri: Psalms 130; 148; Job 2:1-13; Acts 9:1-9; John 6:27-40

Sat: Psalms 56; 149; Job 3:1-26; Acts 9:10-19a; John 6:41-51

Lord, please help our faith to be greater than our fears.

Inspirational Thought: Life has always been a challenge. There have always been ups and downs, twists and turns, mountain top experiences, and valleys to travel through. I would question someone who would say that they had a smooth ride in life. My question would be, “did they get involved in another person’s life or a cause that would lead them to be a voice to right the wrongs?” We confess we ought to do better, reason out our non-involvement, and rationalize what Jesus calls us to do just as long as it doesn’t touch our lives. However, throughout scripture, and take the Good Samaritan story as an example, of how we are called to be involved with our neighbor. In the story, from Luke 10, it tells of a Jewish man that was going from Jerusalem to Jericho. This man was beaten by thieves and left for dead until a Samaritan man came along to help. This Samaritan was half Jewish and half Gentile and hated by the established Jewish nation. But it was this man that helped his Jewish neighbor who was “the other.” He mends his wounds, brings him to an Inn, and even pays for his care and stay. Now, this Samaritan really got involved. I wonder if this was difficult for him to do. Was he taught not to interact with Jews? Was he instructed not to stop and help anyone along this notorious corridor where thieves would lay in wait for their next victim? According to our story, the Samaritan made the choice to get involved in the messiness of life. In my view, life becomes a challenge – going back to our previous thought – when we do what Jesus invites us to do and become involved with our neighbors – the other amongst us. This possibly would mean getting involved with justice issues, being a voice for the voiceless, walking alongside someone whose reputation has been damaged because of rumors over indiscretions. And, if we do this out of love then we have made the right choice in living out our faith of doing good and sharing with others, no matter how messy it becomes. Until we meet again, may God’s love,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not seek so much to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen. (Attributed to Francis of Assis )

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
August 23, Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday& Friday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

In honor of Ray Rouse, our former Sexton, the church is giving a Peace Lilly. If you would like to contribute, please send your donation to the church. Please make your check out to Presbyterial Church of Livingston and mark the envelope “Peace Lilly.”

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
August 16-22, 2020

Sun: Genesis 45:1-15; 133:1-3; Rom. 11:1-2a, 29-32; Matt. 15:(10-20) 21-28

Mon: Psalms 135; 145; Judges 17:1-13; Acts 7:44-8:1a; John 5:19-29

Tue: Psalms 123; 146; Judges 18:1-15; Acts 8:1-13; John 5:30-47

Wed: Psalms 15; 147:1-11; Judges 18:16-31; Acts 8:14-25; John 6:1-15

Thu: Psalms 36; 147:12-20; Job 1:1-22; Acts 8:26-40; John 6:16-27

Fri: Psalms 130; 148; Job 2:1-13; Acts 9:1-9; John 6:27-40

Sat:Psalms 56; 149; Job 3:1-26; Acts 9:10-19a; John 6:41-51

Address Change
Please keep Bill in your prayers.
If you would like to send him a card, his address is below

Bill Trafton
The Cliffs
707 Eagle Rock Ave.
West Orange, NJ 07052
If you would like to call him: 973.324.8771

Inspirational Thought: When it comes to prayer – or, a dialogue with God – there are a variety of forms with which to have a conversation with the Holy One. Some like to kneel beside their bed while others take a walk in the woods pondering the petitions of their heart. In models like A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication) we can follow a pattern that will help keep our minds focused. As I have found, throughout my journey as a Pastor, I appreciate the hand method. Each finger and thumb represent a specific petition.

This is how it works:
Thumb: Those closest to us like our family, spouse, siblings;
The index finger: those who point the way as police, teachers, and our bosses;
The highest finger next to the pointer finger: those in authority or leadership;
The ring finger: This finger is the weakest, which reminds us to pray for others who are in need, have health concerns, or in a tough place in their lives;
The pinky fingers. This is reserved for our needs.

However, prayer is a conversation with God. It is not a monologue; it is a dialogue. During our prayer time we ought to set aside time to listen, simply listen to the voice of God deep within our being. This will help us to be still and know that God is our God and then listen to what God might be saying to us. To help us to be more intentional in the “be still and know that I am”, we have our monthly Taizé service. In these quiet moments, we quiet ourselves before God and listen. During the COVID pandemic, we have done a noon contemplative prayer service to help us be calm before God and refocus on the great I am. Our hope is that this helps deepen our relationship with God.

To be renewed and refocus on what is important in our lives, we need to be still and hear what God is saying to us. I invite you to come to Taizé this Thursday and come to the quiet. You never know, you might find the answer to what you have been searching for. It is time to pray.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week: (from the hymn “Take Thou Our Minds Dear Lord”) Take thou our minds, dear Lord, we humbly pray; give us the mind of Christ each passing day; teach us to know the truth that sets us free; grant us in all our thoughts to honor thee.

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
August 16, Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Contemplative Prayer, (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• Bistro – meets in the church parking lot at 10:30 am, second Saturday of every month
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Imagine a World Tour

I’m reaching out to invite you and any of your interested parishioners to a virtual Imagine a World Tour, which is a moving, inspiring, and educational one-hour information session about our mission. These tours help us live our mission of raising awareness about childhood bereavement and provide education on how to support grieving children, teens, and adults.

Please share this information with anyone you think may be interested.
Here are our upcoming tour dates:
•  August 6^th at 8 AM – 9 AM

I hope one of these dates works! To register just visit www.imaginenj.org/tour. 

Warmest regards,
Mary
Mary Robinson, MA, CT
Executive Director and Founder, Imagine

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
August 2 – 8, 2020

Sun: Genesis 32:22-31; Psalm 17:1-7, 15; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:13-21

Mon: Psalms 62; 145; Judges 6:25-40; Acts 2:37-47; John 1:1-18

Tue: Psalms 12; 146; Judges 7:1-18; Acts 3:1-11; John 1:19-28

Wed: Psalms 96; 147:1-11; Judges 7:19-8:12; Acts 3:12-26; John 1:29-42

Thu: Psalms 116; 147:12-20; Judges 8:22-35; Acts 4:1-12; John 1:43-51

Fri: Psalms 84; 148; Judges 9:1-16, 19-21; Acts 4:13-31; John 2:1-12

Sat: Psalms 63; 149; Judges 9:22-25, 50-57; Acts 4:32-5:11; John 2:13-25

Inspirational Thought: The last few Sundays we have been upping our Moment for Mission to having them each Sunday. I am hoping that these moments bring inspiration as well as inform us of the many resources available to help us during these uncertain times. I have found that the guest speakers have been engaging as they discuss ways to deal with life in this new frontier that we are journeying through. In the coming Sundays, our moments will have us reflect on how the homeless are dealing with the COVID virus, Our House, Inc. and the possible date when they will begin operation and ways that our church community may reach out to them. The world may have paused momentarily, but I have found through these moments that folks are doing amazing things to help and create new ways of dealing with the unknown. I have appreciated the statements of working together to make life a bit brighter for the common good and have been challenged to think about how our world is forever changed. It seems that the more we share with each other the more new opportunities come to the forefront of our thinking. Even with ideas, it takes a village. My hope is that our congregation will be free to share ideas, muse over ways to minister to our ever-changing world and community and to continue to take up the cause to proclaim that every child of God is important. May this be our hope not only for the future but for today.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week: Everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being: You have made us for yourself so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Give us purity of heart and strength of purpose, that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will, no weakness keeps us from doing it; that in your light we may see light clearly, and in your service find perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Birthdays for July
Matthew Gibbon – July 22
Kelli Geary – July 26

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
July 26, Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Contemplative Prayer, (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
  • Canceled for the remainder of July
  • Will resume the first Saturday in August
• Bistro – meets in the church parking lot at 10:30 am, second Saturday of every month
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
July 19-25, 2020

Sun: Psalms 19; 150; Joshua 6:15-27; Acts 22:30-23:11;  Mark 2:1-12

Mon: Psalms 135; 145; Joshua 7:1-13; Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 26:36-46

Tue: Psalms 123; 146; Joshua 8:1-22; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 26:47-56

Wed: Psalms 15; 147:1-11; Joshua 8:30-35; Romans 14:13-23; Matt. 26:57-68

Thu: Psalms 36; 147:12-20; Joshua 9:3-21; Romans 15:1-13; Matt. 26:69-75

Fri: Psalms 130; 148; Joshua 9:22-10:15; Romans 15:14-24; Matthew 27:1-10

Sat: Psalms 56; 149; Joshua 23:1-16; Romans 15:25-33; Matthew 27:11-23

Imagine a World Tour

I’m reaching out to invite you and any of your interested parishioners to a virtual Imagine a World Tour, which is a moving, inspiring, and educational one-hour information session about our mission. These tours help us live our mission of raising awareness about childhood bereavement and provide education on how to support grieving children, teens, and adults.

Please share this information with anyone you think may be interested.
Here are our upcoming tour dates:
•  July 23 at 7 PM – 8 PM
•  August 6th at 8 AM – 9 AM
•  August 6 at 8 AM – 9 AM

I hope one of these dates works! To register just visit www.imaginenj.org/tour. 

Warmest regards,
Mary
Mary Robinson, MA, CT
Executive Director and Founder, Imagine

Inspirational Thought: I was introduced to the Deer Prayer by Karen Sinclair, who attends our zoom Bible & Bagels and worship service. The prayer penned by St. Patrick in 433 CE has a lot of inspiration – inspiration that we might need to hear for our own peace of mind. I hope that you will find it meaningful.

The Deer Prayer

I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun, splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning, swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea, stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.

I arise today
Through God’s strength to pilot me;
God’s might to uphold me, God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look before me, God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me, God’s hand to guard me,
God’s way to lie before me, God’s shield to protect me,
God’s hosts to save me, afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.

Christ shield me today
Against wounding,
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Birthdays for July
Holly Anderson – July 14

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
July 19, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Contemplative Prayer, (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
  • Canceled for the remainder of July
  • Will resume the first Saturday in August
• Bistro – meets in the church parking lot at 10:30 am, second Saturday of every month
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
July 12-18, 2020

Sun: Genesis 25:19-34; Psalm 119:105-112; Rom. 8:1-11; Matt. 13:1-9, 18-23

Mon: Psalms 5; 145; Joshua 2:1-14; Romans 11:1-12; Matthew 25:1-13

Tue: Psalms 42; 146; Joshua 2:15-24; Romans 11:13-24; Matthew 25:14-30

Wed: Psalms 89:1-18; 147:1-11; Jos. 3:1-13; Rom. 11:25-36; Matt. 25:31-46

Thu: Psalms 97; 147:12-20; Joshua 3:14-4:7; Romans 12:1-8; Matt. 26:1-16

Fri: Psalms 51; 148; Joshua 4:19-5:1, 10-15; Romans 12:9-21; Matt. 26:17-25

Sat: Psalms 104; 149; Joshua 6:1-14; Romans 13:1-7; Matthew 26:26-35

Inspirational Thought: Jesus comes into town and disrupts the status quo by healing on the Sabbath. While He is teaching in the synagogue there is a woman in need of healing; she has been bent over for 18 years. Jesus sees a need and heals the woman. The religious leaders are angry that Jesus healed on the Sabbath. Would they rather have this woman suffer than receive a whole body? In many ways, we become like these religious leaders when Jesus doesn’t do what we want or expect. We tend to lean toward the wish list of heavenly favors rather than resting in the knowledge that our Lord will meet us where we are and give us exactly what we need. In this story from Luke 13, we see how Christ is not concerned about rules and regulations — the whys and how’s — Jesus is concerned about the person. When dealing with others, we need to ask ourselves how certain regulations or policies affect others. Do we cause others to be bent over because of the burdens we place on them, or, do we partner with Jesus so that their spirit is lifted with amazing possibilities? There are many ways that we can do this, but, the first thing to do is to see the need. Today, as we go through our daily tasks, may we stop, look, and listen for the needs of others and act in the way Jesus taught us.

Pastor Dan

Prayer of the Week: Grant to us, O God, the fullness of your promises. Where we have been weak, grant us your strength; where we have been confused, grant us your guidance; where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort; where we have been dead, grant us your life. Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing, in and with you we can do all things. Open to us new possibilities that will lead us to new opportunities for growth through new beginnings. Amen.

Birthdays for July
Helen McNerney – July 7
Linda Yeatman – July 10

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
July 19, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
July 5-11, 2020

Sun: Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67; Psalm 45:10-17 Alternate Song of Solomon 2:8-13;

Romans 7:15-25a; Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

Mon: Psalms 62; 145; Num. 32:1-6, 16-27; Romans 8:26-30; Matthew 23:1-12

Tue: Psalms 12; 146; Num. 35:1-3, 9-15, 30-34; Rom. 8:31-39; Matt. 23:13-26

Wed: Psalms 96; 147:1-11; Deut. 1:1-18; Romans 9:1-18; Matt. 23:27-39

Thu: Psalms 116; 147:12-20; Deut. 3:18-28 Romans 9:19-33; Matt. 24:1-14

Fri: Psalms 84; 148; Deut. 31:7-13, 31:24-32:4; Rom. 10:1-13; Matt. 24:15-31

Sat: Psalms 63; 149; Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Romans 10:14-21; Matt. 24:32-51

Inspirational Thought: I was honored to represent our presbytery at the 224^th General Assembly. This assembly was historic not only because of the first virtual platform – which was hailed as a success — but also the election of the first Indigenous woman to the office of co-moderator of the General Assembly. The election of Rev. Gregory Bentley and Elona Street-Stewart will lead our denomination for the next two years with renewed energy, intelligence, and imagination. Their passion for the church and Christ’s ministry was sensed as they spoke of their hopes for the future of the Presbyterian Church. In my opinion, they were the strongest of the two other co-moderator candidates that were up for election. The theme for this year’s assembly was “From Lament to Hope.” As spoken by the co-moderators 223^rd General Assembly speakers, Vilmarie Cintrón-Olivieri and Cindy Kohlmann, was defined as lament, confession, restoration, and hope.

The commissioners at the assembly were encouraged, through different initiatives, that the church must find a voice during these uncertain times. The representatives were challenged as to how the church might do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. The 224^th General Assembly called attention to racism of people of color and the inequity of poverty. We were encouraged to find a voice that would mirror Christ within our midst.

Even though the General Assembly doesn’t have the authority to tell churches to accept certain missional positions, it gives us pause to rethink our mission and the vitality of our church for such a time as this.

Until we meet again, may God’s love be with you,

Pastor Dan

Birthdays for June & July
Alexander DeFilippo – Jun 30
Allen Fossett – July 2
Gabriella DeFilippo – July 5

Anniversaries for June
Pastor Dan’s Ordination – July 2 (31 years)

Come Worship with Us This Sunday!
July 5, Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Celebration of the Lord’s Supper
(please have the elements available)
On-line service only, starting Sunday at 10 am

This Week at PCL

• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm, phone: 1-646-558-8656
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday& Friday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Livingston Light Up Night
July 1, at 8 pm, on LTV

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
June 30-July 4, 2020

Tue: Psalms 54; 146; Numbers 22:21-38; Romans 7:1-12; Matthew 21:23-32

Wed: Psalms 65; 147:1-11; Numbers 22:41-23:12; Romans 7:13-25; Matthew 21:33-46

Thu: Psalms 143; 147:12-20; Numbers 23:11-26; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 22:1-14

Fri: Psalms 88; 148; Numbers 24:1-13; Romans 8:12-17; Matthew 22: 15-22

Sat: Psalms 122; 149; Numbers 24:12-25 Romans 8:18-25; Matthew 22:23-40

Inspirational Thought and Prayer: Recently, I was asked to be one of the speakers for Livingston Light Up Night, which is on July 1, beginning at 8:00 pm. At this time in our country when there are so many uncertainties that include COVID-19, racial tension, systemic injustice, unemployment, and mental health issues, Livingston Light Up is a voice, or light, of solidarity to support one another with respect and dignity. With the hope of bringing folks together with a simple light, and the desire to move forward with conversation that will lead to action against injustice and inequality. For my part I prayed a prayer of solidarity that I would like to share with you as this week’s Inspirational Thought. I invite you to reflect on how it speaks to you.

CREATOR GOD,

Tonight, we come together in solidarity with one voice and one heart to support each other during these times of uncertainty. we grieve the loss of those who have died succumbed to the COVID virus and for those who have watched in vigil as they slipped from this world to the next. we pray for those who have been discriminated against due to the color of their skin; or for whom they love. we pray for those dealing with fears and anxiety over how to pay bills and buy food. as a community we stand as a light of hope that will lead the way to love all with liberty and justice. may each light represent the thousand points of lights that has made our country and community strong to endure times of trouble. as your servant, Rev. Martin Niemöller, said so many years ago, but is pertinent for today:

First they came for the Communists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist

Then they came for the Socialists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist

Then they came for the trade unionists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist

Then they came for the Jews
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Jew

Then they came for me
And there was no one left
To speak out for me

May we speak out as we strive to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with you trusting in your leading and guiding for a time such as this. amen.

Until we meet again,

Pastor Dan

Anniversaries for June
Mindy & Mark Glaz – Jun 27

This Week at PCL

• Taizé (noon) every Tuesday & Thursday on Facebook & Zoom.
• First Thursday of every month Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service on Zoom at 8 pm
• Centering Prayer (noon) every Wednesday& Friday on Facebook & Zoom.
• Bible & Bagels, Saturdays, at 8:30 am
• If you have friends who don’t have a church home, please invite then to join our on-line worship services, Bible studies and prayer service.

Worship & Other Opportunities

Facebook & Zoom

• Facebook:  facebook.com/The-PCL-935676843185631
• Sunday worship; contemplative prayer, Tuesday – Friday at noon (Zoom)

• Zoom,
  Sunday Service:
  Meeting ID: 157 482 235
  Password: 84 85 69
  Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Contemplative Prayer

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 729 0137 4659
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Bible & Bagels

Zoom:
Meeting ID: 858 942 655
Password: 84 85 69
Phone: 1 646 558 8656

Zoom Taizé Contemplative Prayer Service
First Thursday of every month at 8 pm.
Zoom ID: 826 6284 2267 / PW: 820 068

Tithes & Offerings
As we deal with the shelter-in-place and are unable to meet physically as a congregation, we ask you to mail your offerings to the church office.

Livingston Light Up Night
July 1, at 8 pm, on LTV

Reading the Bible with the Lectionary
June 21-27, 2020

Sun: Gen. 21:8-21; Ps. 86:1-10, 16-17; Rom. 6:1b-11; Gospel Matt. 10:24-39

Mon: Psalms 135; 145; Numbers 16:1-19; Romans 3:21-31; Matthew 19:13-22

Tue: Psalms 123; 146; Numbers 16:20-35; Romans 4:1-12; Matthew 19:23-30

Wed: Psalms 15; 147:1-11; Numbers 16:36-50; Rom. 4:13-25; Matt. 20:1-16

Thu: Psalms 36; 147:12-20; Numbers 17:1-11; Romans 5:1-11; Matt. 20:17-28

Fri: Psalms 130; 148; Numbers 20:1-13; Romans 5:12-21; Matthew 20:29-34

Sat: Psalms 56; 149; Numbers 20:14-29; Romans 6:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11