[amc] a note from the pastor

Competition is a strong dynamic in our culture.   The popularity of people who become famous as a result of particular accomplishments or demonstrations kindles an urge in others to strive for this same degree of attention.  Competition can arise for the purpose of proving oneself to be superior to others, to be the winner of a game, to excel in an art form, or to succeed in an unusually difficult challenge.  The need for approval can become an obsession which requires that a person use any advantage possible to prevail.  ‘Sportspersonship’ can temper the negative consequences of competition, subduing things like selfishness, degradation, even assault.  Sportspersonship enables the competitor to affirm and honor the discipline, devotion, training, and skill of another person actively engaged in the quest for achievement.  It takes a lot of hard work, focused energy, enduring determination to be a champion.  Yet there is a task that is even more difficult than that.  More difficult than being a champion is achieving the capacity to live with self-confidence, to be assured of ones worth and value to the community and to the earth.  This capacity comes from the ability to recognize and be grateful for the life one is given.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please pass your hymnal to the aisle after worship.

Austin Mennonite Contemplative Prayer Group
Today, 1:00 to 2:30 PM, here in the church.
Guest Speaker:  David Mikeska,  Co-Coordinator of Heart of Texas Contemplative Outreach (HoTCO)
Please see Linda Snow for more information.

Church Work Day  Next Saturday, Oct 16, we will meet by 9a to finish painting the exterior of the annex buildings.  Lunch will be provided.  Please bring painting supplies and ladders.

Sunday, October 31, is Mennonite Heritage Sunday.   During our worship service we will hear testimonies of memories and experiences cherished by persons in our community.  Please consider sharing one of your stories with us.      

Saturday, November 13, 9 am - 4 pm. The 21st Annual Texas Mennonite Sale & Auction for World Relief will be held in Houston, TX at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 7901 Westview Dr, 77055.  Festivities include the collection of pennies, a bake sale, a craft sale, Ten Thousand Villages tent, a Silent Auction, and the big auction where dozens of quilts, woodworking items, and special Mennonite Central Committee projects will be sold to raise funds for MCC.  For more information visit www.texasreliefsale.org.

Several people from AMC are sewing tortilla warmers to sell in the craft sale.  Others will be making baked goods to send along.  If you are interested in attending the relief sale,volunteering to work, or donating items to the sale, contact Steve or Pat Hochstetler, srh2pjh@xxxxxxxxx or call 989-1321.

WORSHIP SCHEDULE FOR OCTOBER