In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.
This Sunday, we welcome Nathan J-D., to share his story of learning the bravery to be whole, in the aftermath of traumatic events. Nathan writes,
“Leonard Cohen’s oft quoted line from the song “Anthem” says that “there is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” I’ve long loved this line because of how it fits for my own journey to becoming brave…I learned to see my imperfections as part of the whole me and not a deficiency within me.”
As Nathan gives us a window into his journey of bravery, we’re all called to reflect on what it means to be whole, and to trust in that whole-ness.
Note to parents: this service will mention, but not describe, sexual abuse. This is a great list of books for children and teens that focuses on abuse prevention/survival, consent, and other traumatic experiences; please reach out if you’d like additional resources or to talk or pray together.
Join us on Sunday at 10am in Willett Hall and online to pray, worship, and be brave together.
In faith,
Amy
How We Learn To Be Brave series
June 29: Adam S. — taking a leap of faith with vocational change
July 6: Amy Norton-Benfield — loving bravely
July 13: Miriam C. — defending others
July 20: Wendy W. — helping immigrants
July 27: Koinonia M-P — standing in our power
August 3: Bob C. and Deb S. — facing dementia
August 10: Marwan H. — resilient bravery, being Muslim
August 17: Nathan J-D. — the bravery to be whole
August 24: Peter R. — rescuing a stranger, telling the story
August 31: DJ H. — finding bravery in trusting again
image credit: “Liebe Dich Selbst” by Abdul-Ganiou Dermani
