“Light in the Forest” our stunning chapel is reflective of our mission – simplicity, inclusivity, beauty & light. The work of the church happens collaboratively.
This Sunday: May 25, 2025
SERMON
This Sunday: The Rev. Ken Feske
“Seeing Visions”
Bible Study Leader: The Rev. Ken Feske
Bible Study Topic: John 5: 1-9
Bible Passages: Acts 16: 9-10; Psalm 148 selected verses; John 5: 1-9
Lector: Chuck DeWitt
Crucifer: Nathan Kobell
Ushers: Kathy Gray and Peggy Pfeifer
Fellowship: Lloyd Nattkemper and David and Pam Tashjian
Flowers: Mary J. Melvin
Prelude
9:45 a.m.
Jubal Joslyn, Tenor
Cathryn Wilkinson, Piano and Organ
Songs for the Month of May
Song of May, Opus 53……….Joseph Jongen
Im Wunderschönen Monat Mai from DichterLiebe……….Robert Schumann
In the beautiful, wonderful month of May
Mayenlied, Opus 1……….Fanny Hensel
May Song
“May” from The Seasons……….Pyotr Tchaikovsky
‘Twas In the Glorious Month of May……….Alice Barnett
Offertory
Songs for the People……….Rosephanye Powell
Jubal Joslyn, tenor
Postlude
Piece for Grand Organ……….Joseph Jongen
In reflecting on Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, as a day of commemoration, the words of “Be Still, My Soul” come to mind. A Lutheran nun wrote the poem in the 18th century, and published it in a collection of German hymns. She expressed that disappointment and sorrow will be replaced with joy forever more. The familiar tune was composed by Jean Sibelius a century and a half later as part of a grand orchestral suite for a Finnish celebration. This was at a time when Finland was part of the Russian Empire. Recalling Finnish heroicism, the original title “Finland Awakes” was considered too threatening and had to be changed. The Helsinki Philharmonic first performed the music titled Finlandia at the Paris World Exhibition of 1900. The story continued in 1927, when an excerpt from Finlandia was paired with “Be Still My Soul” in an English hymnal in London.
Last Sunday’s Service
Sunday Services Archive
The Rev. Ken Feske
Pastor's Letter
What’s Your Vision?
Many of us struggle in trying to discern God’s will. To know what direction or action in life we should be following. The latter half of the book of Acts follows Paul and his companions as they travel through the Roman world, sharing the gospel. Paul did not have a printed itinerary to follow as he traveled. He was dependent on God’s direction each step of the way. But he did not just sit and wait until he had that direction. He tried to go into Asia and then Bithynia. Until God closed those doors. Eventually, he discovered the door open for him and charged through it.
What God did for Paul, he will do for us. Like Paul, we may find some doors close that initially looked promising. When that happens, change direction and keep looking. And when you find that door God has opened before you, enter it and serve God there.
Trust that God will lead you and be willing to go wherever that leading takes you.
Four years ago, I felt God calling me to return to CitF, I cannot fully convey the grace, meaning, discovery, love and joy I have experienced. You have been most gracious and supportive. Every church is unique, but I am biased that CitF is special in so many amazing ways. CitF is THE ONLY faith community in the Forest. A significant amount of its mission is to be a place of welcome and witness to folks who seldom, if ever, have entered its physical space. In times of loss, or union, or celebration they turn to CitF for support, encouragement, and fresh beginning. Most often these are accomplished, competent, wise persons who find themselves in a tender time. YOU PROVIDE A WELCOMING AND SERENE SPACE.
You are called to be a Light in the forest, how do you fulfill that calling?
Keep shining!
See you in worship Sunday!!
Small Groups & Bible Study
Small Groups
These are gatherings where CitF members and friends can explore faith and deepen fellowship.
Small Group Bible Study
The Sunday Small Group Bible Study meets each Sunday Morning at 9:00 am in the Multipurpose Room, where the topic is the sermon Bible lesson of the day.
Men’s Small Group Bible Study
Men’s Bible Study is held Thursdays 10:30 a.m. on Zoom only. We are studying John’s gospel.
For more information contact Bob Axley at rjaxley@icloud.com
Women’s Bible Study
Women’s insight on Faith will meet on Thursday, June 19th from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Mia Jarick’s home. Anyone interested in joining can contact Mia Jarick at 831-917-3202 or miajarick1@yahoo.com.